Rant: Election Day

Yesterday was Election Day. It's one of those emotionally charged days, where political theory and "what if" meets the reality of an electorate that doesn't always mesh with your personal views. It's a win-some, lose-some proposition, at best.

Voting is vital to a democracy, and I really do believe that if you don't vote, you can't gripe about the outcome. That being said, I don't want to gripe about the outcome of some of those idiotic measures that showed up on my ballot, or the idiots that don't agree with me. I want to gripe about a few other things.

First, the media. I live in a small state on the West Coast, which means that the election results for Presidential elections are called long before the polls actually close in my home state. And as irritating as I find that to be, it really yanks my chain when our local races are called before a majority of the ballots have been counted simply because a computer model predicts the outcome based on 17% of ballots returned in one metropolitan area. I completely understand why people living in other regions of the state feel disenfranchised.

Second, campaign advertising. In Oregon we vote by mail. My ballot was completed, signed and mailed two weeks ago. I understand that not everyone does this, and that the goal of the extremely absurd amount of commercials are geared toward those people who haven't made up their own minds or who are waiting to see how the wind blows. I've become used to watching tv with the remote and mute button handy, and stopped listening to the radio on my way to work. But how many trees do you have to kill to keep stuffing my mailbox full of crap that, literally, makes it as far as the recycle bin? And stop calling me. If I don't recognize your number, I don't answer the phone. Does anyone?

And one more thing, pulling in "experts" from out of state to persuade people that their opinions are wrong doesn't really work. It just pisses people off.

And the powers that be wonder why we're disillusioned with government and the entire electoral process.

A Short Rant....

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God."

This is the oath of office taken by our elected congressional representatives. Today marked Day 5 of the Government Shutdown, and I personally do not believe that our representatives are doing their job. I sincerely hope each and every one of them, regardless of political affiliation, is voted out of office at the earliest opportunity!

Election Beef

I hate the media coverage of election returns. In my opinion it's really stupid to speculate if someone has won an election when only 2% of the precincts have reported. Seriously?!

In addition, I think the electoral collage is out dated and useless. Maybe I would feel different if the electoral votes weren't cast until after a state's popular vote is reported. That would at least make sense. But if the electoral college is going to be the deciding factor of the presidential election, why do the people bother to vote? Maybe 223 years ago this was a great idea, but realistically most voters in 2012 are well informed and are perfectly capable of letting their vote speak for themselves.

Parent-Teacher Conferences....

...or how I spent four really boring hours tonight.

That sounds so negative. And I guess I kind of am negative about PTC's. After all, the purpose is for parents and teachers to meet and discuss student progress and behavior. I didn't see a single parent for any of my students.

This year our district cut seven days from the budget. Two of them should have been PTC days, at least in my opinion.

Shopping

I love to shop. Specifically, I love to shop when I don't have to buy anything, or when I'm not looking for something specific. The pleasure I get from color, texture, style and wandering through stores makes me happy. Today, I spent the day attempting to buy baby shower gifts for my sister. She has registries. Matching up little code numbers is not fun. Trying to locate "Area 1" in a store is not fun. Attempting to purchase what she wants is not fun! So, I bought nothing she registered for. Sorry, Sis. You get what you get.

Oh Canada!

That title has more than one meaning. First, the song. I think I can almost sing Canada's national anthem I've heard it so many times over the course of these Olympics. I'm not complaining. I think it's great that Canada won the most gold medals. After their previous home Olympic experiences, they deserve it them (even if I was hoping with everything in me that the USA would win the men's hockey game today!)

Second, Canada the nation. I think that if I had to choose another country of allegiance, Canada would be my choice. That's not to say that I agree with everything Canadian. Heck, I don't agree with everything American, but I think that I could be a happy Canadian. The US and Canada have an interesting interconnectedness that I think a lot of people on both sides of the border overlook or ignore. I'm probably guilty of it sometimes. I love that during these Olympics there were little reminders about that interspersed among the athletic achievements.

Third, Canada the beautiful. It's been fifteen years since my one and only trip to Canada. The family spent about a week exploring Vancouver Island and then the city of Vancouver. I'd like to visit the other provinces. The visuals of polar bears and rocky coastlines has bumped Canada up a few spots on my travel list.

Sisters Quilt Show

I'd never been to the Sisters Quilt Show. I'm not a quilter, so this event (which is a really big deal to quilters) was not on my "must see" list. Don't take me wrong, there's nothing wrong with quilting, and if I didn't have creative outlets elsewhere, and I was somewhat talented with a sewing machine, I might try it. But I digress....

I had no plans for the weekend, so the parents said "Pack a bag and come along. We'll hang out in Sisters, and do whatever we want." So that's what I did, and we were off to Sisters on Friday morning. The weather was beautiful. We saw some truly gorgeous quilts. Man, are people talented or what? I had a chance to see some of my cousins. It was a good weekend. But most of all, it made me appreciate all hard work that must have gone into those old quilts my grandmother and great-grandmother made. Man. I would never have the patience.

Inauguration 2009

Wow. Old building, temperamental server connections, and squirrely kids did not allow me to watch the big "tahdah" live today. I knew this and planned ahead. Love the DVR, but that meant hours of watching this evening, even with the fast-forward button frequently engaged.

I'm left with mixed emotions. Intense pride for the tradition of peaceful transition, great pride in being an American witnessing an historic event. Hope that the next four years (possibly eight) will bring about the success in "...the work of remaking America." Yet, there is still a part of me that is apprehensive for the future. Mr. Obama's intentions may not be fulfilled. The next four years may not be any better than the last four. And I wonder if the build-up is based more on the novelty of the 44th president, rather than his substance.

I hope I'm wrong.

Snow Driving

Face it, western Oregon is not exactly snow country. Many years we get just a bare skiff. This year, it just keeps coming down. I know my friends who live in true snow country are appalled by the reaction many Oregonians have to the winter white stuff. This week the Portland news stations have reported little news that is not weather related. But seriously, it's not that bad. I will admit that my Montana driving skills have been sharpened a bit this week, but if people would just use a little common sense, the snow would not be such a big deal!

Pondering...the meaning of respect.

There are days when I wonder when the world changed. I work with teenagers and I know there are things they experience I never had to. My life began with a very solid foundation. There were rules and expectations, and there were consequences when I didn't meet those expectations. Tonight I sit here and ponder the path my life has taken, and I wonder do I expect too much from my students?

Is it too much to expect them to be kind, considerate, understanding? I know that patience is difficult. I struggle with it myself sometimes. Is sitting still and staying focused too much to ask? I wonder if the technological world we've created has increased the instances of ADD and ADHD, or have we failed to teach children how to cope with overwhelming stimuli. Part of me thinks its more the latter. I can remember as a child being expected to finish a meal before being able to play. The other day I was at a local fast food restaurant (yes, I know it's not healthy) and this father walked in with three young children, probably 2-7. The kids made a beeline for the playground, and then didn't want to eat when the food was ready.

Is it too much to expect a certain level of courtesy? Or that offensive language doesn't belong in my classroom? When did it become acceptable for a fifteen year old to call me, her teacher, a rather vulgar name?

I know that all children aren't rude, or disrespectful. I'm even willing to bet that most of my students don't behave this way all the time. I just wonder if we, as a society, have failed them and one day when we need them to step to the plate, what kind of reaction will we get.

To Work...

Today was District Day, an event that I sometimes think of as the "Rah Rah Rah" day when all things are good and the climate is positive. But it's strange being in a new district. It was still rah rah, but there were definitely some differences.First, the energy. This staff is rip roaring, ready to go. It's very refreshing. Second, I've never personally introduced myself so many times in one day. Also refreshing. Third, unlike other jobs where working with a challenging population is met with lots of "they're great kids, they just have issues", today I have several people respond with "God Bless You and Good Luck." One staff member actually crossed herself as she said it. I wasn't quite expecting that.So the new year begins. I work really hard not to build up any preconceived ideas. Other people don't really get that, though. They want to fill me in on all the gossip. I figure I'll get that as I go. Teenagers aren't known for keeping things to themselves.

A Really Good Biography

I just finished reading a really great book, "Alice: Alice Roosevelt Longworth, from White House Princess to Washington Power Broker" by Stacy A. Cordery.

Sometimes I find myself drawn to histories and biographies. Sometimes they're not so great. I don't mean that the material isn't interesting, but some authors just can't fire the imagination. That is not the case with this book. Cordery presented such a complete picture of Alice Longworth. A woman who saw such a wide variety of experiences, and insisted on living life the way she wanted. Alice Longworth was a contemporary of my great-grandmother, and from what I remember about my granny, she had a similar "I'll do it my way" mentality. So, if you're feeling like tackling a big biography, check it out. It's worth it.

Early Childhood Education: A Few Thoughts

Education is always on a teacher's mind. It's part of the price we pay for doing what we do. We question ourselves, administration, and the all-powerful bureaucrats. But as much as I question, I can't imagine the questions that parents ask.

Many of my friends are parents of young children, or are parents to be. They've discovered as they navigate the early years that education starts early. Personally, I can't fathom a system where you apply for pre-school before you even give birth! Yet it exists. I remember attending pre-school, vaguely. Those few memories are more likely anchored to one of my teachers, a friend of the family, than the actual place or activities. I can't recall any of the other children from school during those two years. There are few standout moments during those ages of 3 and 4, but for the most part I remember more about the educational process at home. When I was a child the newspaper was delivered in the afternoon. I would sit in Dad's lap while he read the articles of the day. I was more interested in the photos and advertisements, but he had the patience to answer my questions. I remember Mom reading me stories and helping me write simple words. We played card games and board games where we learned to count and identify colors and shapes. We had those little alphabet magnets on the fridge. But most of all I remember that questions were encouraged, and family time was precious.

So, my friends I wish you luck with your nagivation. And if you'd like some interesting reading, check out "As the World Learns" in the Feb/Mar issue of Edutopia.

The Evolution of Time

There have been a few times in my life when I've felt like a fish out of water. Maybe it's more apt to say a fish out of my own pond. I spent some time this evening with a group of people I used to see regularly. I was an active participant in this group. Tonight I was a spectator and it wasn't an entirely comfortable role. It made me realize that the three years I've been away from this community and these people have really changed me. My role in the group has also changed and I'm having a hard time redefining it. Of course I don't live here anymore. I'm just visiting. Maybe I don't need to redefine my role.

Privacy: Where to Draw the Line

The issue of privacy has come up in my life several times in the last few weeks. I admit to being naturally wary of how much information about me is out there in cyberspace. When I post, I try to use my words carefully, and incriminate no one.

Part of my wariness comes from my profession. Actions can come back to haunt you. A perfect case in point is the now former mayor of Arlington, Oregon, who posted some revealing photos to her Myspace page, and then left that page open to the public. Notice I referred to her as the "former" mayor. Last week in a special election, she was recalled. As a teacher I see what my students post to their pages, and sometimes I'm shocked, appalled, amazed, that they would want every detail right out there in the public for anyone to view. I guess that from their point of view, many feel everyone who is someone in their world already knows all the details.

On the other side of the argument are the people I know who have privatized their blogs, Myspace pages, etc. Some have done it to protect the privacy of their children. Others want a safe place to unload without prying eyes over looking every comment. I understand that completely.

My position remains much the same it always has. I leave things open to prove I'm not hiding things, yet I try really hard not to identify names and locations of the people I sometimes write about. The only real exception is to the comments page of my Myspace page. I decided giving my students carte blanche was not a good idea for any of us. After all, I'm supposed to be the adult, right?

Election Madness

I've been reading blogs (does that count as reading? The Oregonian has posed that question, but I'm getting off task) Anyway, many have touched on the subject of the current electoral process in action. And, of course the media is full of stories, speeches, appearances and election results. I think that the current slate of candidates has really fueled the imaginiations of Americans. It's historic having Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama racing each other for the Democratic nomination.

Obama has brought back some interesting memories for me. I remember being in high school, so it must have been 1988, when Jesse Jackson was campaining for the nomination. He made an appearance at Oregon State to give a speech and I remember having teachers tell us to miss school so we could hear him. That it was a historic moment. I imagine that those who are experiencing Obama's speeches have some similar feelings.

But back to the primaries and caucuses. Oregon has a closed primary system. I'm not a member of either party, so I don't have a vote in the primaries. Bottom line, my opinions don't really count until November. So, why am I "non-affiliated'? Easy, I don't see much difference between a liberal conservative or a conservative liberal. My opinions vary from issue to issue and I don't like to limit myself, or box myself in. I know that for some people this idea is frustrating. Friends have actually told me that I'm afraid of committing myself to either the Republicans or the Democrats. But, you see, I'm a student of history and believe that given enough time the parties, like the magnetic poles, will do a 180 degree shift and then I'd have to change my registration.

Bottom line. Closed primaries suck. The day I will truly celebrate is the day when open primaries are the norm in all 50 states.

Jury Duty: Comments

I've had a few days to really think about my jury duty experience. It was awful, I won't lie, and if I ever get called again it will be way too soon. I understand the need for democracy in the courtroom, but the fact that human beings can't or won't drop all their baggage at the door to the jury room can be a big stumbling block to achieving any sort of resolution. During the selection process the attorneys take into account things like close ties to people involved in the case, even the witnesses; ties to law enforcement, and whether or not violent crime has been a factor in your life. You can tell who is trying to avoid jury duty by the way certain people plead their own personal case. I feel they should ask who is willing to serve instead of attempting to disqualify people. Of course, who's to say that they'd ever be able to seat a full jury.

Jurors have a difficult job. They're supposed to uses their common sense, but can't ask questions; look at both the real and circumstantial evidence and make a decision. It's not that easy. But I guess it really shouldn't be.

Jury Duty

It's been a long month of jury duty. Actually, I haven't had the duty, just have had to check in every day. But the message was different yesterday. I had to report this morning, and just my luck, I was selected for the trial. And not a short little one day experience. Oh no, it looks like I'm going to be there all week. Hopefully it won't be held over until next week. I have plans and I don't want to change them! And did I mention that I'll be out of my classroom all week. Not exactly happy about that either. Oh well.

I know a trial by jury is a constitutional right. And, lover of the democratic process that I am, I wouldn't change that. I really do believe the U.S. Constitution is a wonderful document and the rights of U.S. citizens should not be abridged. I do, however, have problem with the circuitous and labyrinthine process that trial lawyers take. And the means which potential jurors use to get away with not doing their duty.

Conferences: What a waste of time

I know. Teachers shouldn't say things like that. But the truth of the matter is that conferences at the high school level are a complete waste of my time. For the last two nights I've been sitting either at a table in the gym or in my classroom waiting for parents to show up. I saw a grand total of three in the combined six hours. I don't know about other teachers, but I have a lot of contact with the parents of my students. In some cases more than either the parent or student wish. And I don't care if I am getting comped the day before Thanksgiving for the time wasted during the last two evenings, I had many other things I could've been doing.

Gripes: NCLB and Testing

Today the entire district was subjected to a training seminar for the state tests we administer every year. The fact that we have to the tests isn't work griping about. Until the federal government pulls its head out and realizes that standardized tests are not the way to increase achievement we are stuck with them. My gripe is with Department of Education's unending, contradictory rules for those tests. Some examples:

• Tests of special education students who have modifications in IEP's must be modified, but will not count toward the school and district participation percentages.
• Students taking the mathematics test can use a calculator, manipulatives (rulers, protractors, counting sticks, etc.), a multiplication table and the provided formulas. At the same time, teachers must remove bulletin board strips that read "1+2=3, 5+6=11"
• Teachers who are working one-on-one with students providing modifications on the math test may only read the words in story problems, not the numbers or signs (ie: Jack has ____ apples. If he adds ____ more, how many will he have?)
• My personal favorite, while monitoring testing teachers are not allowed to make supportive comments such as "Keep up the good work" and "You're doing a great job." Teachers doing one-on-ones must read in monotone and not use non-verbal gestures of any kind.