Okay so What Next?....

Not All CSET Preparation Sites Are What They Say They Are

2011-12-23T15:12:00.000-08:00

Something that really irritates me is when some outfit finds my blog and decides to post some bogus response in order to link their crappy site to mine promoting commercial garbage. There is this one CSET preparation website that sells either study guides or flashcards that has this really bad. I delete more of their posts than any other crappy piece of spam that tries to link to my blog. What is really disappointing is the poor grammar and spelling associated with these links.

My blog is not a commerce or commercial site. I didn’t create it with the intention of earning an income, although it is my information, (see copyright below), and I value it. It's not for sale. Please do not post if you’re not a real person with something of value to add to the original post. There is no short cut to teacher preparation and there are a lot of websites out there with study guides that are garbage. I know I have wasted money on a few back when I attempted to prepare for the CSET Business exam...that was a real waste of money. The bright side of that experience was at least I got my money back.

If you choose to use a site that promises to help you pass the CSET make sure:

1. They can spell and put together a sentence

2. They are a member of the Better Business Bureau

...that way you can get your money back if need be.

Is There Really Life After High School?...From the Diary of a High School Reject

2011-07-17T03:13:00.000-07:00

High school was a weird time for me, not surprisingly for my daughter too, which is why I think I have always been "hyper-sensitive" towards kids that don't fit in. The irony in all of this is that I now teach high school, but before I go on I have to be really honest, teaching high school was not my first choice. I love kids at any age, but I have to admit I really enjoy the energy and fun that flows from elementary age children. The older kids get the harder it is for some of them to fit in, especially when dealing with others. It is a time when a lot of students report that they feel the most misunderstood. I can relate to that. Many pull away from their parents, and rely on kids their own age to confide in. But, what about those of us that felt we didn't have a confidant, even in those our own age? I see the kids that don't fit and the strong desire they have to run away from everyone else...A desire that can sometimes manifest itself into something really scary. These kids today really do have it much harder than we did when I was growing up. A sign of the times no doubt.

Today, I was faced with the decision of whether or not to attend my 25th year high school reunion. A big part of me really wanted to attend. The last time my class had a reunion was the 10th year; but I couldn't attend. I was living pretty far away, in Southern California, at that time and too focused on what was going on in my life then (okay I was broke). I figured I would catch the next one. I had no idea 15 years would pass before there would be another one. Now at year 25 things are different. I live much closer, just a little under 75 miles outside of the small town where I attended high school; so, getting there wasn't as big a challenge, plus I hadn't seen many of my friends in 25 years. A few I reconnected with on Facebook and that class reunion site. At least a half dozen or so of them that I never forgot I really, really wanted to see again; although I was a little intimidated over the challenge of remembering everyone else. I imagined my embarrassment over all the awkward conversions I was bound to have throughout the night...well if anyone even bothered to talk to me.

Why?...because truthfully...high school for me was painful. I left high school confused, pregnant, and broken hearted. Not to mention through all of this my father was dealing with the bitter disappointment, and despair over my uncertain future, and delicate state. No one knew all the pain I was going through, because I wasn't popular. Who cared really? I remember my stepmother calling my closest friends, "sweat hogs"...Most gen Xer's and baby-boomers know what a sweat hog is from the TV show "Welcome Back Carter" where John Travolta got his start. For those of you who don't know what a "sweat hog" is...they were losers...and in a sea of uncertainty I was very lost.

Well to make a long story short none of that mattered anymore. I got my life together, had some fun along the way, and I am now past all that pain or so I thought? I am certainly not past the fear of the unknown. My yearbooks are in storage, so I have no help at my finger tips now in trying to figure out how I was going to recognize or remember people. Who would I talk to? What would I say?...

As fate would have it...I didn't attend. I had a flat tire, which just deflated my whole day. Too tired to deal with it, I had just returned from a recent trip a few days prior to the reunion...So, I gave up and afterwards started to feel regret...I would have liked to have known. Did anyone remember me? Was I even missed? I always tell my students, as I told my daughter during her difficult school days, keep your head up. Life can be a wonderful adventure, or a painful trip...it's your choice. Make the best of it and keep moving forward...Although it would have been nice to peer back into the looking glass for just a moment, I let that moment pass...crap I hate regret!!

In the long run...I am really proud. Even if I didn't get to share it with anyone tonight I am amazed at the path my life took! I would have never guessed I would end up where I am today. Now don't get me wrong. I am not wealthy, don't wear expensive clothes....I don't own my home (yet); but, none of that matters either, because I have choices. If any of that really mattered to me, I would have it. The point I am trying to make is this...Life is TOO short to destroy early on...really at any time...

For those of us that didn't or don't fit in...it is amazing what a positive attitude and a never surrendering self-determination can do. I survived life after high school and I can say with certainty to my students...my kids....So can you!!!...THIS TOO SHALL PASS!!!!..

High school is survivable and it really isn't the end of your life. Let's get out there and make some good decisions together shall we!!

Ms. B

Helpful Materials for Passing The CSET, Multiple Subjects Examination for Teachers

2011-04-13T11:33:00.001-07:00

Recently, I was asked what tools I used to pass the CSET California Multiple Subjects Examination for teachers. I didn't realize until asked that question that I had not shared my resources. I love to do research, and I did some on one of my favorite sites, Amazon, and followed the advice of other teacher candidates who had taken the test and posted reviews on what worked for them. The first thing I did was take the practice exam at the California Subject Examination for Teacher Website. You have to be familiar with the test and ABSOLUETLY DO NOT skip the written questions. Much of what you see on the actual test you will find on the practice exam. I took the practice exam more than once until I passed it several times in a row. Many candidates take for granted how important it is to do the practice test. Of course practicing the test alone isn't enough. I also used other materials.

There are four small books (desk references), that I used that I purchased from the Amazon website for around $2.00 or $3.00 dollars each. I purchased the books useds. It's a good idea to purchase a test preparation book such as the CliffsTestPrep or Kaplan. The other books are part of the Scholastic Homework Reference Series titled, Everything You Need to Know About English Homework, Everythink You Need to Know about World History Homework, Everythink You Need to Know about American History Homework, and Everything You Need to Know about Science Homework.

There are also books in that series for Geography and Math, but the math wasn't as helpful. The books are written by Anne Zeman and Kate Kelly. The books are the fourth to sixth grade homework series and not only a great desk reference for elementary students and their parents, but also perfect for any future elementary teacher candidate studying for the multiple subjects exam in California.

How To Pass The Revised RICA

2010-09-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

Most of the advice I have for this one is in a previous post. I am happy to report I passed the revised RICA. Many are struggling with this test, and I do agree that since the State of California revised the test in August 2009 it is a lot harder to pass than before. I met and spoke with a teacher who let her credential lapse after taking time off from work to start a family. She explained to me that she had previously taken the test and passed it prior to the revision. When she retook the revised version back in July she was shocked to learn that she had not passed and was repeating the test at the same time I was attempting to try again too. What I can say from experience is if you walk in prepared it is a test that can be passed.

I don't know of nor can I recommend any preparation programs here in the State of California, but I can teach you some strategies you can use on your own in order to help you pass that test. Like the average person I will attest I "HATE TAKING TESTS." Standardized tests are about the worse. For an individual seeking to be a newly credentialed teacher in the State of California this one exam can make the difference between finding and keeping a job. It truly is not the end of the world if you walk in prepared.

The good news is not everyone has to take this test. If your seeking a single subject credential in the State of California you're looking at taking the CSET specific to the disciple you are interested in teaching and the CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test). On the other hand if your interested in becoming an elementary (K through 6) or Education Specialist (Special Education) teacher both of which I am pursuing, or if your interested in becoming a reading specialist then yes you're one of us folks that has this exam to face.

But on to how to pass it, there were a few methods I tried and they were well worth it. Rather than repeat myself a million times I will refer back to my first post on Passing the RICA were I share what worked for me. If you don't have time to read that whole post then the cut and dry of it is this....First and foremost don't walk in blind or unprepared. The two books I recommend without hesitation are Ready for the Revised RICA, the third addition by James Zarrillo and Case Studies in Preparation for the California Reading Competency Test, third addition by Joanne Rossi and Beth Schipper. You can get these books really cheap at Amazon.com

Keep in mind the Case Study portion of the RICA is worth 20 percent of the total grade. That has both its advantages and disadvantages depending on how you look at that 20 percent. My advice is that you make sure to become familiar with as many case studies as the Case Studies in Preparation for the California Reading Competency Test as possible. You will not regret it. In the long run practicing the Case Studies will also prepare you for the rest of the tests because the Case Study covers all the domains of the test. Don't misunderstand me. You cannot rely on just the Case Studies book alone, James Zarillo's book is first and foremost the tool that you need to get ready for the test. Rossi and Schipper's book really only prepares you for the Case Study.

Back to why I say the 20 percent is both good and bad. Keep in mind the Case Study is only 20 percent of the test. In reality if you're one of those people that is an excellent test taker you may be one of the very few that could bomb the Case Study and still pass the test, but I wouldn't rely on that alone. That test is no walk in the park. Prepare well for the entire test and you will do well.

Sincerely,
Coletha Browning
Education Specialist

My First Attempt at Passing the Revised RICA

2010-06-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

Okay - So in the last post, Journey of a Newly Credentialed Teacher, I kinda got this wrong...hmmm. I was totally confused. Is that okay to admit?

This whole I have 5 years thing to complete the RICA (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment)...yeah...no...less than that. The time frame varies depending on your program of study and the credential you're pursuing; but in order to apply for a preliminary elementary, or special education credential, you have to take the RICA and the CSET exams first. I worked for 2 years as an intern while I finished up all the requirements to earn both credentials, but I was only partially credentialed. I was working under an Internship Education Specialist Credential, which I was able to obtain through the State of California after passing the CSET, but that credential is only good for two years.

With all the state requirements that I have to meet I get so confused that I don't know if I get it all the time. Well here I am in my last class WOOHOO!!!...and I gotta take this one last test in order to receive my preliminary credential...man I so thought I was past all this crap!!!!....So I made the mistake of rushing without preparation into the belly of the beast...THE RICA!!!!

Okay so I prepared over a two week period....SO NOT A GOOD IDEA!!!...This test is a MONSTER!!! The RICA was revised recently in August of 2009 and it is true what they say it is A LOT harder than it was prior to the revision... Anyway, not to get off on the wrong foot it is a doable exam. I almost did it last week. The multiple choice portion of the test isn't the problem, it's the case study that blew my socks off.

The test used to be 5 hours, now it is 4 hours. The case study alone takes about an hour. You really have to pay attention to the details and make quite a few recommendations in writing. In addition to the case study there are 4 written responses. The first response has to be 75 to 150 words, the other three average 150 to 300 words. Not too bad, although you have to pay attention to the question and not give too little or too much information. If it asks for one instructional strategy...DO ONE. First of all you don't have time to add more than what is necessary if you want to finish in 4 hours, and secondly they look for how well you pay attention and follow directions. Not paying attention to what they are asking for can lower your score.

Anyway, SO.....I was feeling fairly confident until I got to the case study. Talk about wanting to cry. I was like, "WOW!!...Guess I will be taking this test again!" My biggest mistakes...I took way too much for granted when it came time to prepare for this test.

I really worked my butt off studying for the CBEST and CSET Multiple subjects. I got through both on the first try. Both tests where a piece of cake compared to the RICA, but the one thing they all have in common...That practice test at the Pearson Website.. I took the practice exams for both the CBEST and CSET as part of my preparation. I even took each practice tests more than once. I also purchased books to help me prepare for the CSET and I attended a workshop for the CBEST, so when it came time to sit down for both those exams, upon looking back I knew that all that preparation was to my benefit especially, during the written portions of the tests. I knew that if I hadn't taken the practice tests that I probably would have struggled to pass the CBEST and CSET.

Regarding the RICA I started looking at the practice test the morning of the exam...I started answering the multiple choice questions and I was nailing them...getting them all right with a big fat smile on my face. So I moved on and didn't focus on the sample Case Study. That was a big mistake. I didn't dare skip any steps on the CBEST or CSET. As a matter of fact I passed all the sections of the CSET including the writing, which I didn't have to take because I had taken the CBEST. I could have skipped the CBEST all together....talk about getting big headed.

So back to the test. As I was sitting there looking over the case study and I came to the conclusion..."I can't do this, not today, so I looked it over realizing what a mistake I had made not going over the practice exam case study at the NES website, and I decided this time it wouldn't count, so I walked out.

Another mistake I made. I purchased a book "Ready for The RICA" that was outdated. There is a revised addition and as a matter of fact you have to look for "Revised" in the title or you'll end up with the wrong book. The "Revised Ready for The RICA" by James Zarrillo is probably about the best one. His old edition comes highly recommended. I had the older one and it had enough information in it to get me through the multiple choice questions, but his new addition has more information that is very helpful, although it may not be enough on it's own when it comes to the case study. Another really important book is "Case Studies in Preparation For the California Reading Competency Test" by Joanne Rossi and Beth Schipper. Believe me you can never study too many case studies. Plus an added benefit is that all of this preparation does strengthen our practices in the classroom when working with students who struggle with reading, or who are learning how to read for the first time.

So in closing, I am anxious to do it again, to test out my theories about where I went wrong, especially after attempting the test, and I am anxious to test out my preparation materials to see if they really are enough to get READY FOR THE RICA. I anxiously await for August when I can take it again...(because OF COURSE keeping my job would be nice)....more to come then.

Peace and Blessings!!!!

Journey of a Newly Credentialed Teacher

2009-10-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

Today I am reflecting. It's been a long week. I didn't get much sleep, which I blame on me being in high gear all week. I reached a milestone in my career and I celebrated it by spending the day shopping with my daughter. I totally forgot that my childhood best friend was giving her daughter a baby shower today...so I know I will be spending the beginning of next week mending an important relationship.

Okay...so back to reflecting on why I have had such an energetic week. Just this past Thursday night I sat down with a credentialing advisor at school and he said something to me that I have been waiting to hear certain that it would take forever before I did. He told me, "You're approaching the light at the end of the tunnel." I thought "Wow, really?..This can't be almost over?" The State of California has made me jump through so many hoops that I thought it would never end.

I remember asking, when I started the credentialing program, how long would it take for me to become a credentialed elementary school teacher, and I could never get a straight answer. "Well, since your looking at a dual program which allows you to earn two credentials (I am working on credentials in special education and general education) it just depends. It is different for different people...Some people do it in two years or so, some longer." I thought "Wuh!?!..That's not an answer!"....

Okay, (sigh),..anyway, I was told along the way there were tests I would have to take. "Well in order to meet the requirements set by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing you have to take the CBEST (California Basic Education Skills Test) to meet the basic skills requirement, then CSET (California Subject Examination For Teachers) to show subject matter competency, and then after that you have to take the RICA,(Reading Instruction Competence Assessment) at the end of your program, but you have five years to complete the RICA...

What is important now is getting through CBEST and CSET in order to get your preliminary credentials out of the way". Blah...blah...blah...yadda...yadda...yadda...All I knew was that I wanted to be a teacher and no matter how long it took I had time, (actually that is not true there is a time limit if you're already working in the classroom...ANYWAY). I learned that I could teach while working on the credentials. There were some prerequisites I had to complete, but as long as I had a Bachelor's degree at the minimum I could work while in school.

Before entering the classroom as the teacher of record I had taken and passed the CBEST. I had also worked as a substitute teacher the year prior to getting my own classroom, so I felt like, "Okay I think I can do this!" I fell in love with my students and my job and thought, "Wow there is nothing else in this world that I would much rather be doing right now except for this!"...And believe me I have tried a few things. In the past 10 years or so I have worked as a secretary, administrative assistant, clerical supervisor, and project manager and hated it all...I had worked my way through the ranks in the business sector and never found as much joy as I do working as a teacher.

The hardest part of my credentialing program has been taking the required state tests; but with a lot of hard work (really lots and lots of prayer), and study I am at the end of my tunnel like my credentialing advisor said. I passed the CSET all the subtests (it's a three to four part test depending on the credential) and of course now I will move on to the RICA, although I have a little time. Over the next few weeks I should be receiving preliminary credentials in the mail with a State of California seal on them. The hardest part is behind me, yet this still feels like the beginning...the beginning of a new life, and a new career. I am 41 years old in my second year of teaching and I feel like I just got started...like a kid fresh out of college...You know they say life begins at 40...with that being said regarding that last statement I would have to agree.

Wuh?!!!.....

2009-08-20T17:46:00.000-07:00

I expected to rest a lot this summer. I mean to tell you the truth teachers look forward to summer break just as much as their students do; but instead I got totally addicted to playing online games on Facebook. I would spend hour upon hour playing games until sitting in the same place made my butt hurt. Now I ask is that healthy?...Back in April of 2009 I read an article on the subject that looked at both sides of the argument by first asking the question does spending too many hours on Facebook lower student performance? It also highlighted the opposite by asking the question can Facebook actually booster student performance? Does it hurt or help? Okay readers I will let you decide. Can spending hour after hour in front of a computer playing game after game and doing nothing else for days at a time until your body aches really hurt you?...Well duh?...Do the math....if after this experiment you can still remember how.

Cheers!!.....

For more information read more here on the subject Does Facebook Use Affect College Grades?

Why this?...

2009-04-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

During a math lesson on Friday one of my high school students asked me. "Ms. Browning....why are you here? Why in the world would you want to work with these bad kids at this school?"

I work at a community school for students who have been kicked out of the district due to occurrences with bad behaviors. Some of my kids are just misunderstood, while others manage to get themselves in so much trouble that they wind up here. This is not the first time I have had a student ask me that question. So I asked him, "Why do you ask? Don't you think everyone deserves a second chance?"...his response, "I don't know?...Depends on what they did...but I wouldn't go to college all them years like you and wind up working here for nothing."

I had to laugh and pause just for a minute....I could relate to what he was saying, but for me so much had changed that this young kid probably wouldn't understand. It's one of those things you just have to live through. Two years ago I was a project manager. I worked in healthcare and I made a lot more money than I do now. I was driving a new car, credit cards maxed to the limit, more stress then I could handle. I was depressed. I had managed to work for the same organization for 10 years. I worked my way up from secretary to supervisor, then project manager, all the while telling myself things would get better and they never did. I knew I needed a change. The only time I could remember being happy back then was when I was in school. Even my daughter said to me..."Mom you are a different person since becoming a teacher. I don't remember during the time I was growing up you having a job that has made you this happy."

I will admit, I did take a loss in income. I had to liquidate some debts, and restructure my life. We had to move into a cheaper place for the umpteenth time. My daughter and I have moved so much our furniture should have roller skates on it...actually I bought some new furniture this year since moving, so that was a fun change.

Today, I spend more time visiting with family, I exercise, I go places, We eat out on occasion and catch a show every now and then. I have long periods of time off. I only work 9 months out of the year, and being a teacher is the best job I have ever had. I take pride in what I do and I am learning new things all the time. Heck I learn stuff every time I have to plan for a lesson. I explained to my student....

"One of the most important things you can do for yourself is get an education. It gives you choices. I can always go back to what I was doing, but I don't want to. So I make less money. We are living better then we ever did when I was making more money." He totally didn't understand that last part. How can you live better with less?

Well, if there is anything I want to teach my students it would be this...

You only live once. It is never too late to follow a dream. You can do what may seem like the impossible, I did. Never put a dollar amount on your happiness....because no matter what anyone says money cannot make you happy. It may not sink in for a few years, but if they hear it enough...just maybe they will remember it one day...if not directly from me, just know that it is possible.

I never ever thought I would ever hear me say that and mean it. As a matter of fact I am going to go take a walk with my daughter around our neighborhood right now. Smell some roses, look at my neighbors landscapes, walk past a park or two (lot's of parks in my neighborhood). All the people I used to envy walking their dogs, riding bikes with their children, playing on the swings with their kids, jogging past me on the bike path I will waive at...I don't have to envy them anymore...I am one of them now. I thought I was suppose to envy the lady passing me by in the Lexus....nope not with that car note

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Now playing: Mariah Carey - Anytime You Need A Friend
via FoxyTunes

Follow up to a Mother's Love

2009-04-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

Look.....I don't profess to be a poet. When I started writing that post about my daughter the words just started to flow...I know some of it really doesn't rhyme, but that was not my intention, (to write a poem). That post had more to do with us becoming runners. It's about a mother's love, and pride in her only child. I cherish her and if I could I would shout it from every rooftop in town I would...any town at that. Am I apologizing for my attempt at writing a poem..NO...well sorta...only to my daughter who is the real poet in this family...

Dis mama's old butt trying to hang ;0)

......but don't worry sweetie I won't quit my day job (smooches)...oh BTW I started a journal of our journey to become lifetime runners....starting with training for our first marathon at LiveJournal...my online diary, one day at a time.

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Now playing: Babyface - There She Goes
via FoxyTunes

This mother's love

2009-04-17T13:05:00.001-07:00

She has always been a little different, but so am I. I didn't know that I could love a person as much as I do her. I know what it is to want to take away your child's pain, to hope that some of the trials you faced your children never will. What about the trials they face you won't? How do you protect them from that pain? Truth is you don't. We all have our burdens to bare...when it comes to our children it doesn't seem fair.

She was so beautiful when she was born. All the things I hated about myself she made me love. My smile, she has it, many of my expressions she shares. She is more like me than anyone else in the world. When I looked at myself in the mirror I hated the reflection staring back at me..I think it was the parts of me that most reminded me of my mother. To look at my daughter and see so much of me and see how beautiful is she, I finally learned to love myself through the reflection of another. Look what God made...and allowed me to be the caretaker of. She is this mother's love.

Her relationship with her father has always been a strain. Although she is his oldest it wasn't long before he had more, none of which I bore. He was there at times, but not really. He'd make promises and brake them. She swore he cared more for his sons, and child support...we usually got none...

In the midst of all this pain came puberty...My perfect child started into this strange ugly-duckling stage, it's like she didn't know if she wanted to look like me or him, have light or dark skin, would she be short or tall...be heavy or small?...

A face more beautiful with each passing year, long strong beautiful hair, and 20 or more pounds a year, every year, after year. Then I started to see a change. She became more sensitive and hidden found it difficult to make new friends. It's like my poor child just couldn't win. Truth be told she was always sensitive, a straight A student, that didn't fit in. Never part of the popular crowd, more mature than most her age she started college early...On the Dean's List, and Who's Who....never causing me to worry.

The first few years were difficult. Seemed like my poor child got sick every semester, but she persevered and in the midst of all that struggle she blossomed and came out of her shell...I started to see a whole new person. She was finally finding herself and the day arrived when she announced, "Mom I want to run a marathon!" OMG!...the journey has begun.

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Now playing: Maxwell - This Woman's Work
via FoxyTunes

This just SUCKS!!!....well maybe not totally?

2009-01-23T08:44:00.000-08:00

Hey....I am venting....really I want to scream, and then come to my senses and share some links I found for free....you know stuff for teachers. That is really what this post is about. Freebies......

Besides....WOW!!...I guess I am not setting a good example if I start drinking, but it is true that not having what I need just SUCKS!!... okay really in some ways I am not surprised. I was warned that becoming a teacher would be the hardest job I would ever have and love.....well something like that. It rhymed the first time I heard it....

Hey, I suffer from a lack of resources, a lack of support, NO MONEY, crazy expectations, long work hours, and in the middle of all this chaos I am expected to teach my kids you know STUFF!!!....

I was reading one of my favorite blogs and I ran across one about a teacher who decided he had, had enough and was leaving his budget strapped school of little means for better pastures, a larger school with way more resources, and lots of perks...not necessarily more money just a nicer campus with computers in every classroom, smartboards, and most important perk....like LOTS AND LOTS OF CLEAN BATHROOMS. I will give the janitor credit at my school. He does keep our bathrooms clean...he just can't multiply them for us. I want MORE...hate standing in line.

I hear teachers moan and complain a lot and you know what, many of those complaints are valid. This job is really hard to explain. I wouldn't trade it for the world. I have never felt better doing what I do, but I hate it because I am expected to do so much with so little. I guess you really have to love children. Even with all the setbacks I keep getting up in the morning and going back for more. Besides the best part at my small school of little means...there are these faces...these little faces. They may not go to the school with perks, but they need teachers too...so if it is all the same I think I might stick this out....well maybe just a little longer. After all in this economy having a job is a blessing not to be taken for granted.

The state budget crisis in California has a lot of teachers really scared. Many of us have unanswered questions about whether or not we will have jobs tomorrow, and regarding this stimulus package how is it really going to help education? I mean is there going to be enough oversite, too much oversite, will the money get tied up in School District red tape? What I do know is that I have my students to worry about right now. Plus it takes my mind off things if I concentrate on teaching. For my kids I am willing to take the good with the bad.

I added some stuff below I wanted to share. I am always looking for a shoulder, support, and free stuff for my classroom. I have found some really wonderful sites with free curriculum online and I thought I might create a post putting some of the best links I have found in one place.

These are free resources so enjoy....I have found some really good uses for these links. I had a hard time deciding which is best...but I did narrow it down to my favorites. There are more out there, but these jewels below are more than enough to get started

1. This one is probably one of my favorites Discovery Education. My school district pays for memberships for our teachers for this site, but on your own you have the option of either a paid or free membership that is worth looking into http://discoveryeducation.com/
2. This one is soo cute. For me it is right up there with Discovery Education, and it is one of my favorites The Busy Teacher Cafe for K through 6 http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/index.htm
3. ABC Teach offers free and a paid membership too http://abcteach.com/
4. This is a gateway to hundreds of teacher sites, free printables, free curriculum, etc. Site for Teachers
5. Education World really is the educators best friend. http://www.education-world.com/

There have been some days I wanted to bang my head on the wall...but I found conversations at the sites below motivating

6. I really like this one Pro Teacher Community at http://www.proteacher.net/
7. The Teachers.Net is a great resource that leads to more resources too http://teachers.net/
8. A to Z Teacher Stuff is a good place to share an learn from other educators http://forums.atozteacherstuff.com/

You know I could go on, but these are great references and starting points for anyone looking for curriculum and place to vent, share funny stories, or get assistance finding resources you need for your classroom; ENJOY!!....

Time to Hit the Bricks....

2009-01-04T18:53:00.000-08:00

Wow...now I gotta get back in the groove of work again...hmm. One of the many benefits to being a teacher is when the kids are off, so am I. I like the idea of having a summer vacation. Wow I haven't had one of those since high school. Then there is the downside...going back. The first week of winter break I was up and out of bed between 6:00 am and 7:00 am every morning; but as my vacation paddled along I started spending my time off surfing the net and preparing for one of my teacher certification exams that I will be sweating through next week. So....by the time the second week rolled around I was going to bed at 1:00 am or later in the morning, and getting up at noon...Wow those reminiscent college days....wait a minute...gotta go back farther then that. I meant high school days. What was I thinking. I was raising a kid and working by the time I got to college. The only person sleeping in on those days was my daughter. Anyway, I have to admit a part of me is looking forward to going back tomorrow, but not the part that has been enjoying staying up late nights. Since my free time is diminishing...guess I can't play on my computer as much either.

Attention Future and Current Teachers Preparing for CSET Exam

2008-12-28T22:40:00.000-08:00

Attention California Teachers preparing to take the CSET Multiple or Single Subject Exam.

I have been scowering the Internet for 6 months or more looking for affordable resources to help me prepare for the CSET exam. I found something that I wanted to share with anyone else who might be looking for resources to help prepare for the exams too. There are different online outfits that claim they have the best tools available in order to prepare test takers for the CSET, but in doing research and buying a few of these products, I have learned that most fall flat; because their information is not current, nor relevant in many cases. It can be a real challenge on a teacher's salary to find something affordable too. There are lots of books available for the CSET Multiple Subjects, but some of the Single Subject exam topics can be really hard to find. The Kaplan CSET Multiple Subjects test prep seems to be one of the most popular, according to word of mouth, and Amazon ratings. Everyone's style is different and there are other books as well, in addition to a lot of other tools out there, but many of us new teachers don't know where to look first. I had to do a lot of research on my own, and I still look daily for new resources.

There are different agencies and universities that offer courses and workshops ranging from $200 to $400 hundred dollars, but if your like me a first year teacher money can be tight. I have searched Amazon.com, looked at reviews, and read different blogs, as well as, spoken to different teachers who have taken the test to get their opinions and advice. I am preparing to take the CSET multiple subjects exam January 10, 2009 (subtests I & III). Hopefully I will take subtest II in March. In addition, I plan on taking the single subject CSET for math. I really wanted to start a study group, but so many of my classmates, (I am in a Master's in Special Education program), were taking the tests at different times and dates, so that kinda fell through.

Well in one of my random searches online I ran across a new networking group that's FREE. It's a ning network too CSET Network the link http://csetnetwork.ning.com/

There it was at the top of my search page. Finally a study group out in cyberspace! I was really happy to see that someone decided to create a free forum to encourage teachers to work together to prepare for future exams. It's a new group, so there are not many members. I don't think very many people know about it, but I imagine that if the word gets out more will join.

I think it could be a wonderful opportunity for networking, mentoring and possible tutoring opportunities for teachers who have passed the test. I also think it would be an excellent resource for those of us getting ready to take the test.

Happy hunting!!...
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Walmart Employee Trampled to Death in Black Friday Frenzy

2008-11-28T20:16:00.000-08:00

This is probably one of the most tragic events I have heard associated with today’s “Black Friday.” Unfortunately, it's not the first, just the first I have read about today. I cannot believe the insensitivity of some people (in this case the insensitivity of a few hundred people). While trying to control a crowd of shoppers a Walmart employee was knocked down and trampled to death during a stampede of customers wanting to shop.

First of all its Walmart....gotta be one in every city, and hole-in-the-wall in this country, and second there is plenty to go around. Okay third…IT’S WALMART….there is also the issue of the quality of the merchandise you get there too you know. Why would someone want so badly to hurt someone else in an effort to shop? I am not one to follow commercial holidays. There is reasonable doubt Christ was even born in December (you know the part about shepherds in the fields and the Northern Star) Don’t really see all that in the death of winter in Bethlehem this time of year...anyway this is not a religious debate (and yes I do believe in Christ)

If this was a question of Christianity or how Christians act.....would Christ be proud of what happened today in that crowd?

Whether you’re a believer in the season or not, what we should all remember is to be decent to one another. For those in Long Island that were a part of this devastating "life-ending" event......"SHAME SHAME!"

For the family left behind that mourns a father, son, brother and friend. God bless you!!!

Creating a Welcoming Environment in The Classroom

2008-11-07T09:25:00.000-08:00

When I decided I wanted to become a teacher, I knew it would be different from any other secular job I had done before. I was really getting tired of what I was doing. I decided to teach special education because I didn't think the kids in general education needed me as much, plus there was a higher demand for special education teachers. Now don't get me wrong. I am not someone who wants to spend her days dealing with a lot of stress, but I don't mind a challenge now and then. Makes life just a little more interesting.

Well okay, so I got what I asked for, in terms of interesting. I work at an alternative school and talk about challenge. My students have been placed at my school because they were expelled from a comprehensive school, or they fell really far behind in credits and for one reason or another (alot of times it has to do with age) they were not eligible to attend a Continuation High School. For elementary and middle school students a Continuation High School is not an option. I guess I forgot to mention that my school has children ranging from elementary to high school.

Although, I am a special education teacher the model at our school is that we (the teachers) are accountable to all our students. I have the responsibility of teaching both special education and general education students. I like that model because it gives me a chance to work with children at all learning levels. Now comes the challenges.

I work with children from broken homes, foster homes, and some of the saddest situations I have seen. There are children that come from stronger homes, but they all have something in common. For one reason or another they couldn't cut it at a comprehensive school, (that is what we call regular 182 day a year mainstream schools).

We have no money, not much in the way of resources, and all of us teachers have to share our space, or classrooms a little more than maybe some of us would like. To top it off I am challenged with finding ways to make my environment inviting, a place where my students will feel welcome, and a place where they will be willing to come back to each day. I have gotten some really good recommendations from other experienced teachers, here are a few things I thought were worth sharing:

Always be polite and greet students with a positive salutation
Allow 5 minutes or more to talk about how students are doing and invite them to share stories about things they have done since you last met. You can really get someone's attention when you ask them to talk about themselves
Share something about yourself with your students. Funny stories are always valuable
Nothing wrong with having snacks in class from time to time, small rewards can be painless and cheap
Allow free time so that the students can socialize with each other (once a week, or at the end of class when appropriate)

My favorite

**Watch a movie every once and awhile. It can still be educational. Make it so by having the students write a summary about what they viewed and what they learned. If it has a significant social impact have them discuss it in their summary.

Retro Kidz

2008-10-17T06:35:00.001-07:00

Too Too cute...new group doing a retro rap from the 80's..

How valid is a degree from an online institution

2008-09-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have gotten an online degree, or are considering it I imagine you have probably ask yourself, "Does my online degree really count?"

Believe me I have asked that question too, even before I finished earning my first on line degree. My Bachelor's degree was a mix of both an online program and one that I attended at a "ground campus," but the similarities between the two had a lot to do with the fact that I was in an accelerated program. I completed my Master's degree 100% on line.

Let me start out by saying I am a real advocate for education. My get it where you can attitude may not be shared by all, but I think it is important to look at your circumstances. Don't get me wrong, the quality of one's education is very important, so when I say get it where you can, I really mean "Seize the opportunity....Strike while the iron is hot!" First and foremost make sure the college you choose to attend is accredited. That alone is the difference between trying to pass off a piece of paper as a degree and actually having a valid degree that can lead to a real job.

Oh....and we can never forget the importance of looking at cost. I have taken the attitude that student loans are an investment in my future, but I also understand that I have to pay those loans back. Then there is the issue of my daughter’s education. I felt like I owed her the benefit of one. So there are two educations that need to be paid for.
When I decided I wanted a Bachelor's degree my daughter was still fairly young, and I was a single mother. Attending school full-time, while paying a babysitter, and being away from home long hours either due to working all day, or attending school all night for me just was not an option. So I chose to attend school on line. What did I gain from that? Well I went from a secretary, to an upper level administrative assistant, (administrative coordinator), to a supervisor, project manager, and now school teacher. I would not have made those strides in my secular career without my degrees, so yes it paid off.

The importance of a college education boils down to this, having one prepares us for the real world or the workforce. What is so nice about education today is that students have more choices than 10 years ago. When looking at my daughter's choices we looked at everything cost, convenience, location, and the programs of study available to her. She needed to decide what was best for her. She also looked at whether or not she would attend a brick and mortar school, or an institution online. She decided the best choice was a traditional "brick and mortar.” Of course that is subject to chance as she advances in her education. She has talked about possibly earning a Master’s degree on line one day depending on what programs of study are available to her when it is time to make that decision.

In terms of where technology can take you I am one that enjoys social networking with others on line that share many of the same interests as me. I am not one who runs ads for other organizations, but a really good group to join if you’re looking for professionals on line and ways to advance your career is LinkedIn. In addition, many top employers, and recruiters hire members from this site. You will find a variety of talented people there, in addition to some very successful individuals who attended a variety of colleges both on line and off who like me are very proud of the schools we attended and the alumni associations we are a part of.

Widget Junkie

2008-07-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

You know I have come to discover I have a new addiction and that's widgets. I am a widget junkie. It started out with me visiting different blogs and seeing all the neat little widgets writers were putting on their pages. Then I noticed the communities or groups associated with these widgets and I starting thinking...."hmmm I wouldn't mind being a part of that community" Truth be told I am a social networking junkie, so the enticement was almost too much for me...

I don't know were I will find the time? School keeps me so busy that I don't always get to visit my favorite sites. I am substituting this summer and I took some time off from school to study for my state exams, but this past week I have really been distracted. As if most Internet activities aren't distracting enough?

...hmmm..probably should stop now.

I have so many new memberships I don't know when I will be able to do my homework...oh yeah or grade papers or other things that people with lives do. Wow now I have a new distraction that I will have to get a handle on. I wonder if there are support groups for people like me? Good thing these things are free!!

Anyway for those of you who see the lighter side of widget addiction.....if you see something you like....hey grab the code...If I visited your blog...there is a chance I got a widget from you too!

Wisconsin Courts Uphold Firing of Teacher for Briefly Viewing Porn in class

2008-07-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

This story just baffles me. There is a time and a place for everything and the classroom is not it. What is so sad about this case is the setting. This story has to do with a Wisconsin high school science teacher who while on school grounds, on a Sunday, with no students present, briefly viewed porn for what was said to be only a minute. As a result he was fired. His union fought the decision to fire him arguing that the dismissal was too harsh. The district was forced through arbitration to reinstate him, but later the decision to fire him was upheld by an appeals court.

Some may say that the decision was too harsh, but I think it was appropriate. Hey!...can't this guy surf porn at home? Most districts have strict policies regarding immoral conduct in schools, which includes viewing inappropriate web-sites using school property, in this case a school computer. Even if students were not present, the fact that he used property owned by the school district to view porn is a little disturbing. According to an article I found at Teacher Magazine one of the reasons The District 2 Court of Appeals upheld the decision was because the arbitrator either ignored or overlooked the fact that the State of Wisconsin could revoke a teaching license for "behavior that is contrary to commonly accepted moral or ethical standards" (Foley, 2008).

I take issue with it because teachers have a great responsibility to care for the safety of our children. Most teachers know that their jobs can be called into question if their conduct is not befitting a public servant. I have had teachers tell me that they prefer to teach in communities that they do not live in because they don’t want to be caught in the grocery store buying booze and a student and parent approach them in the checkout counter. Yes I too value my privacy and can understand that line of thinking, although I don’t mind if someone sees me in the grocery store.

My final thought on this….You wanna look at porn, do it on your own time at your own computer. When at work, concentrate on work, not play. Mixing the two isn’t really considered a sound idea. Sounds like there could be some sort of addiction there?...I mean dude please?...

Reference

Court backs firing of teacher for one-minute peek at porn
By Ryan J. Foley
Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 07/23/2008 12:26:45 PM CDT taken from http://www.twincities.com/ci_9969572?source=most_viewed

A Push for Black Teachers in Public School

2008-07-13T15:44:00.000-07:00

I don't remember having many black teachers in school growing up in Northern California. I did spend about 6 months in public school in the South when I was in the seventh grade. This was in the early eighties and at that time, and in some cases today, the school districts were still getting away with keeping schools segregated. I had Black teachers then. In fact all my teachers, and all the students at the junior high I attended were Black. Some of that had to do with demographics. I lived in Shreveport, Louisiana and attended school in the Caddo Parrish School District. My grandmother lived in what I refer to as a "traditional black neighborhood." My grandmother's neighborhood was one of those where Blacks were allowed to buy homes back in the 1950's. During the time I was living there, 30 years later, not much had changed.

Anyway, the school I attended in Shreveport had all Black teachers, but only on our side of town. Needless to say I only lived there with my mother and grandmother for 6 months before I was shipped back to my dad in Northern California. The areas I grew up in, in California had a mixture of races, but very few minority teachers. I was in college before I had a Black teacher again. The numbers changed with my daughter. She had at least one in grade school, three in middle school, and one in high school.

During the time I was working on my Bachelor's degree I thought about education; but back then the economy was good and there was a lot of opportunities in the business sector. I also didn't trust that I was smart enough to teach. I did well in college in Math and English. So at some point I started to trust myself and I start thinking"...you know, maybe I can do this teaching thing?"

I started making changes in my life so that I could teach. When I started attending a School of Education program at National University in California. I began to notice right away that the number of Black and minority students attending class with me was and continues to be very low. I am happy to see more Black men enrolling and completing the program, but we could always use more.

I got hired as a teacher due to start in the fall of this year, but prior to all that I started substitute teaching, and can say that most of the schools I have taught at had very few and in some cases no Black teachers. This bothered me because our children need mentors; someone who understands their backgrounds and can assist with meeting their needs. Black teachers also serve as role models. Our children need individuals other than celebrities and athletes to look up too.

According to Johnson, Musial, Hall, Gollnick, and Dupuis (2008) Teaching is said to be a profession that provides the most benefit to our societies. Teachers, in conjunction with a partnership with parents, are responsible for molding children into responsible caring citizens. It should be a shared responsibility with individuals from our own societies, and cultures too.

I found an article featured on BNET.com that shared some fairly interesting viewpoints. Now the article is a few years old, but I thought it was worth sharing found at "What's Behind The Black Teacher Shortage?". Jet. Jan 29, 2001. FindArticles.com. 13 Jul. 2008. http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1355/is_7_99/ai_69964352

I copied a small insert of the original text below:

"Black America is not making the grade when it comes to education. One reason could be that there are too few teachers in the nation's classrooms.
More than a million veteran teachers are nearing retirement, according to statistics provided by the National Education Association.
The nation will need two million new teachers in the next decade. In high poverty urban and rural school districts alone, more than 700,000 teachers will be needed in the next 10 years.
Why is there a shortage of Black teachers? JET recently interviewed educators and experts to find out, What's Behind The Black Teacher Shortage?... "

Taken from Jet Magazine "What's Behind The Black Teacher Shortage?". Jet. Jan 29, 2001. FindArticles.com. 13 Jul. 2008. http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1355/is_7_99/ai_69964352

Johnson, J. A., Musial, D., Hall, G. E., Gollnick, D. M., & Dupuis, V. L. (2008). Foundations of American Education (14th ed.). New York: Pearson Education Inc.

Teen Pregnancy Pack. Now somebody's apologizing....Huh??...

2008-07-04T16:15:00.000-07:00

So what exactly is the question?....I think some of it has to do with denial. Or maybe in the case of the Gloucester, Mass. "teen pregnancy pack" a cover up. So now the mayor and the principal are saying it was a hoax, or mistake. Guess that will make it go away? After all there are still 17 girls that are in the early or late stages of their pregnancies....so what is this all about?

It's about educating our kids. So could something like this happen on purpose? I was a teen mother and I can tell you that YES!!!....it happens on purpose. So who am I referring to when I say denial....all of us......parents, and society. We have to remember we were all kids once, and unfortunately some of us not real bright. Logic was just not in my vocabulary. I came from a troubled home. My father, if he were alive today, would have a real problem with me saying that, but it is true.

My mother left when I was 2 years old. My father raised me alone until I was 6 years old when he remarried....the first time. By the time I was 12 he had left his second wife and remarried again. All three of his marriages were difficult. During that time in my life from 2 years of age to about 14 years of age I went from one parent to the other, spent some time being raised by my grandmother, and back again with my father. I had a very painful childhood. My father bought a house in Sonoma, California when I was young. I was isolated, one of three black students attending my junior high school. By the time I got to high school I was one out of five with a population of about 1,200 students. I had no friends. What few friends I had my stepmother referred to as "sweat hogs." For those of you baby boomers and gen X folks you know what that means. it was cruel, but true. I hung out with the misfits and those whom everyone else considered nerds and the "not so socially acceptable group"

So I fell in love with the first boy that payed attention to me. He lived close by in the neighboring city of Vallejo, California. He was black, and handsome, and I wanted his baby because I wanted to prove I knew more about love than my crazy family, and I wanted to get out of my dad's miserable house.

I learned from my peers that I could get on welfare, (this is back in the late 1980's), apply for low-income housing, and even get grants to go to school. A lot of girls did it in my day 20 years ago to get emancipated, or to get a check from the County in order to take care of themselves, or run away looking for some "happily ever after"...that in most cases never came.

It's selfish, but misunderstood...why?....well because we never seem to think about the poor child this tiny new baby brought into the middle of this crazy fairytale. My father suffered his personal defeats, but he never thought about how it affected me really.....I was miserable in school, but of course moving away would have made him miserable so I lost out. I got pregnant on purpose and never thought about what my age and lifestyle would do to my child growing up. To be born on welfare....and not have a father in the home is not an easy life to live. Yes the romance died and my daughter's father took off, which happens a lot with young mothers, something they don't always understand or see coming. Some of us saw it coming and refused to believe it. Many believe they can change a person....when you know what.."that mold has been cut."

The sad part is that I was not mature enough to even consider at 17 years of age what the outcome of my actions would be.

So how does the cycle end?...We not only have to take responsibility of our own lives, but we have to look at what is best for our children. Sure you can take your own happiness into account now, but there can be consequences.

No one was paying any attention to me or my behavior. There were warning signs, but my family was so wrapped up in what was best for them that when I got pregnant I was given an ultimatum. Have an abortion or get out.....so I left. See what was so sad was my father got a girl pregnant when he was 16. There is exactly 17 years difference between my father and my older sister. My grandmother was 16 years old when she had him, but when I did it, it was as if it was the first time it ever happened. I was scorned and treated as if I had betrayed the "family's reputation"

Okay so we should talk to our children and warn them about the dangers of unprotected sex.....sure, but I already understood that if I had unprotected sex it would lead to pregnancy. See it is not always awareness that is the cure. Prevention is what is necessary. So how do we stop our young women from getting pregnant early? Pay attention to ourselves and the examples we set for our children and talk to them. Remember....no one wants to be lectured. My father ignored my pain as if I was overreacting to my circumstances, our lifestyle. Parents have to be parents, but we also have to be our child's friend. I am 40 years old. My daughter is 21 years old and in college. So far I have no grandchildren, so I guess that "fruit falling not too far from the tree" isn't always the case.

My biggest point here is 'STOP DENYING THE PROBLEM"....or telling yourself some principal got it wrong and we deserve an apology. Face the real problem. In my generation it wasn't a socioeconomic problem. My father was a college professor, his second wife a physician, and the third a computer programmer. See girls from affluent families are just as prone to get pregnant as the girl from a low income family.

Some of my friends ended up like me a mother too young. Some became wives way before they were ready, but then again some did not and went to college soon after they graduated high school. This isn't a problem that is solved with one simple explanation. No one ever told me it was wrong. My parents had no idea what I was planning, and socially it was accepted. After all Murphy Brown and other successful so called "role models" did it...why not me?...I mean how many of us thought "Juno" was cute?

It never helps when it is glamorized...doesn't always have a happy ending.......

The California budget and the crisis of public education

2008-06-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

"In school districts all over California there has been an outpouring of angry demonstrations by teachers, parents and administrators against Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s recent plans to cut more than $6 billion from the state’s public education system in his proposed 2008-2009 budget. The proposed $4.8 billion cut from secondary education and $1.3 billion from higher education are the result of the governor’s proposed 10 percent across-the-board cuts in state social programs to address, in part, the state’s projected $16 billion deficit. The governor himself declared a “fiscal emergency” in early January to deal with the projected shortfall, which at the time was $14.5 billion".........full article http://www.wsws.org/articles/2008/may2008/educ-m03.shtml

written by By Dan Conway and Kevin Martinez 3 May 2008....wsws.org

Where did this all start?...

2008-06-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

I thought it might be a good idea to update my blog. For a little over a year or so I was really heavy into internet marketing. There is a history there about two occupations that got inter twined into one, but one finally won out. Thought I might warn those looking for a new business affiliate that things have changed.

I started hanging out online quite a bit because of school. I am actually earning my third degree online, so I guess you could say I am here a lot, and believe me there are plenty of things online to get distracted by. My first educational experience on the web was as a University of Phoenix online student. It was probably one of the greatest experiences I have had with education. I heard different opinions about UoP, so I decided to investigate it for myself. I was working in business with an Associate’s degree that I had earned back in the 90's that wasn't getting me very far. Here I was heading into the new millennium and I was frustrated and tired of working as a secretary. It's not a bad job if you work for people who appreciate you, but I had one of those bosses that got where she was through pure luck, not talent or know how.

Anyway, I decided I wanted to do more securely, but I couldn't leave my job. I was a single mom who needed to work full-time. I didn't want to spend all my nights away from home attending classes out of town when my 12 year old daughter needed me to help her with her homework, feed her and tuck her into bed at the end of the evening. Plus I couldn't pay a babysitter, so I looked into an online education. It was a real challenge. Taking classes online was much harder than I expected, but I got a lot out of it, plus I got to be mommy when my growing teen really needed me the most. At some point I did try a few classes at a local University of Phoenix ground campus not to far from where I lived. I was not as happy or as challenged at the ground campus so I returned to the cyber world. I managed to earn a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology in about 3 1/2 years.

I went on to earn a Master's in Business Administration through AIU Online, and it too was a positive experience, but by that time I was more into going to school than going to work. The fact that my online education cost less that attending any brick and mortar school allowed me to return for one more degree. I thought I was done really. I had managed over an 8 year period to promote from secretary, to payroll supervisor and finally project manager. Surprisingly enough with all the promotions I didn't like where business was taking me. It wasn't fun, not for me. The money was okay, but the experiences were not real rewarding at all. So I decided to go back to school for education. I never thought I would have two master's degrees but education is so different when comparing it to business. I felt like I needed to learn all I could about the school of education especially since I decided I wanted to become a teacher. I am now again attending school online through National University working on a Master's in Special Education. I am working on three credentials, multiple subjects, special education mild-to-moderate disabilities, and special education moderate-to-severe disabilities. Talk about stressed. I love working with children. I just got hired into my first teaching job due to start in the Fall and I cannot stress how excited I am.

I know I will not make as much money as I did before. Although, my hourly wage is much higher I will only work about 6 hours a day, 9 months a year (185 days). I don't mind. I even decided to simplify my life so that I could enjoy my summers off and long vacation breaks with my daughter who is now 21 years old and a college student herself.

You will not find much about internet marketing on my blog anymore....sure if you put your heart into it, you just might make some money. I have met very few people who actually got rich. It's feast or famine. You do good for awhile and things start going backwards. With MLM you might get people to join in your business venture, but if they are not as driven as you, they give up and you end up having to start over again, by getting out there and working to get more people involved and finding creative ways to keep those people involved. It never ends really. For me it just wasn't worthwhile. So....not to discourage anyone who really enjoys that life, I mean I still have my discount online shopping mall business, but it's more for me and.....besides I am female. You know how some women love to shop. Can't pass up a good deal. Not with my eyes open anyway.

Reformed Marketer...my site has changed

2008-05-26T16:48:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been an interesting season I must admit. I have started my 7th class towards my teaching credentials. I really started all of this blogging stuff in an effort to make a name for myself on the internet as a marketer, but I have since lost interest. It takes a lot of time and effort to run your own business, and right now I see me doing other things. Plus I didn't like the long days and nights trying to convince strangers that I had the answer to their financial dreams, when the truth is I am still trying to get a handle on that for myself.

Please don't get me wrong. Some folks are successful at internet marketing. I have had some friends that embarked on different MLM businesses that they really put their hearts and time into and ended up making some money, but it just seems so short lived. I had a friend that was really making strides with her Prepaid Legal business, but she struggled to keep her downline motivated, and to keep her subscribers. The one business I did fairly well with was Avon, because that stuff really sells itself. I had a co-worker whose daughter got so big with Mary Kay that she earned the pink Cadillac. Last I had heard, although this is several years ago now, she quit her job as a bank teller and started selling Real Estate and Mary Kay full-time.

Well, I myself decided I wanted to become a teacher. I had my fill with business and wanted to get out of it full-time to do something else. I was a project manager and very unhappy. I needed to be able to do something that would fill me up each day with the feeling that my job was worthwhile. I found that working with children.

I am getting ready to finally start teaching school next school year in my own classroom, and I am really excited. I have been working through all the state requirements and exams to become a classroom teacher and that really has my focus these days. I have been working with children in different support roles the last 6 or 7 months and that has been really fun.

What seems to be the Topic of the Day .....Internet Marketing

2007-10-06T13:40:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing I have learned about myself recently is that I have too many blogs. I am happy that there are applications out there that let you combine accounts....be nice if I could figure out how to use one of those services.....and I call myself a techie?.....
Well on to the big news of the day...okay so maybe not the day.....Or I should say you know....just my day. Okay what I mean is so now what?...."Internet Marketing"......Is it worth it? Am I making money?...yes and no. I love it to be honest, and I am spending more time working at it, then seeing any profits from my efforts. In other words it's taking some time but I am slowly starting to see the benefits. My mailing lists are growing and my online presence is starting to pick-up. I have had to put things on auto-pilot, but that is what I like about having a part-time affiliate business. I can concentrate on other things.
I have to be honest. I don't think I will ever give up working outside of the home. Even if for myself as an entrepreneur, I have to get out into the real world. I have discovered I love going to school and taking additional classes to expand my knowledge of business and technology. I know there are a lot of people online today that for different reasons have the goal of working full-time from home, and for many of us it may be the only way we can work, but as far as how I feel today I need the association of others outside of just the web or I start to feel really disconnected.
We all know concerning marketing online it's really hard to get people to be honest with you in this environment regarding what true success really is and what does it take to get it. I have asked one simple question more than once to a few affiliate marketers that I have met online...."How long did it take before you became successful?" and oftentimes I would get misleading information; but I have had a few marketers tell me...."about a year" That seems to be the case, well a least based on my current experience and I haven't been at it quite a year yet, but I am optimistic. What I have learned the past 6 months is that marketing online isn't something you can do and expect to be really successful at without time and hard work. It is also not the greatest venture if your looking for money fast, or for a steady pay check right away. In other words, don't quit your day job.....not just yet anyway.

Truth in Advertising...The TRUTH about the eBook...Get Google Ads Free

2007-06-14T00:44:00.000-07:00

I am someone who almost immediately looks at an ad if it is offering something for free. It's like a present. Most of us like getting presents....Right? So if someone advertises on their site..."Get tons of free leads by joining my list...hey I am all over it." I have to tell you as a network marketer I have really had a lot of success with safe lists. I even went as far as creating my own safe list at Google Groups for free. If your interested I added a link at the bottom.......

I did it because I started out with a home based business online and no customers...Sound familiar? I didn't have the money to buy leads, so I stared posting to several free email lists like Yahoo and Google groups...well because both are free. I was really surprised at the responses I got. Don't get me wrong I had to join several in order to get just a few sign-ups for my business, but it was better than spending tons of money on leads that usually didn't pan out.....Anyway, that's a whole new subject for a later blog entry.

So, back to the free stuff...What I have discovered is that there are three different kinds of free. Surprised?...First you have your, "Free trial"...then you have your "Free version that doesn't really benefit you unless you upgrade"....HEY!...what is that all about? Then finally you have your "It's not really free, but I got you to my website didn't I?"....cute people, but FYI..That is soo WRONG!

Well like many of my fellow marketers I too have learned the truth about advertising....what is it you might ask?...well there isn't always a lot of truth in advertising and if you're not careful enough to read all the way through before making a decision to purchase you may find yourself mislead in the end.....So in essence...buyer beware!

One thing is for certain.....I don't know about the rest of you but I am really starting to NOT like eBooks. The splash or index pages are always too long with WAY too much information and then the eBook is like..5 pages...I ask people WHY!...It seems as though every one has jumped on the bandwagon with these totally amazing offers that are going to make you a gazillionare overnight GUARANTEED as long as you spend anywhere from $39 to $197 dollars for this once in a lifetime, we will never offer it to you again after today, at this great steal of a price deal.

I fell for one of those recently....Get Google Ads for Free for $67 dollars. WHAT A TOTAL WASTE OF MONEY!!!...What this eBook offers you for $67 bucks many experienced marketers already know anyway and can GET FOR FREE. Okay, well for the sake of any newbies reading....I am sorta a newbie too if you want the truth.....oh yeah I will let you in on this big secret that he is promoting with this eBook...cause I know your asking yourself...Does it really work.

How bout NO!!!!..okay...not the response you wanted..let me try again, alittle calmer this time of course.

Here is it folks, this amazing big secret in this so-called doctor guy's eBook......

He tells the reader over and over again to sell Ad space on his or her website to other businesses needing advertising, and then use those proceeds to pay for your Google ads. So in essence your paying for you Google Ads by selling ad space on your website. He even boasts that you can make a little extra money from the sale of your website space.....Okay...so let's recap. Your goal is to sell ad space on your website to other marketers who don't know you from Adam...beside the fact that they can get their ad space today for FREE if an individual does his or her homework....

Here's the thing...I don't doubt this guy made money doing this. Hey he could have made himself rich several years ago, but trying to sell ad space on your pages today can be difficult. Okay so let's put the shoe on the other foot and look at it from the perspective of the individual buying space from you. If it was you would you pay any Joe Smoe for advertising space if you were unsure of how much traffic this guy was getting to his site...okay or her site? How can you ensure that those viewing the site are truly the right target audience.

So anyway his big secret is SELL, SELL, SELL ad space, but he doesn't tell you aything about SEO (Search Engine Optimization). I mean how are you suppose to get your page viewed enough times to make it worth while for another business to pay you for something they can do on a more trusted site, or a free page; or even get free links to sites visited more often...okay, okay...I am getting into another subject here again.....my apologies.

So sure he does give you a few pages of keywords...but the truth is you really need to try and find words that NOT EVERY TOM DICK AND HARRIETA ON THE PLANET ALREADY USE.....sorry didn't mean to yell. I got alittle excited...undoubtly like some of the other folks like me that got suckered into buying this eBook.

Hey if you want to get paid for ad space on your page....Try Google Adsense. There is a sure fire way to get paid for ads anytime someone, (other than yourself), clicks on one of those ads and here is the best part...even if that individual does not purchase from one of those links...hey you still get paid.

If you really understand SEO I don't doubt that you can get your page raked high on the major search engines, but realistically pay per clicks can get really expensive. Even if you have excellent keywords and page ranking...which is what you really need for your page to get seen...you don't want people to just click and surf....You wan real customers who click and buy!

Keep in mind there are endless resources out there for Advertising, SEO and free lead generating systems, safe lists....I mean the list goes on. You can find a lot of sites that offer Free Lead Generating Services that offer third-party verification...so test them out....sign up with a disposable email address, verify, and unsubscribe, and see if they stand behind their claim to do it right....even if free. Check out free pages, and linking services. There are ways to test those too to see if you found a valid resource.....but again that is a subject for another blog.....plus when these entries get too long....who has the time to read it all.

P.S.....one last tid-bit...if you really want a FREE resource for helping your with keyword optimization the check the link below.....after all you can't build a house or a business without a tool box......Happy Surfing!!!....

Totally free trustworthy tool for Good keyword optimization

http://goodkeywords.com/

Legitimate -FREE- Home Based Business Opportunities

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