Thursday, March 31, 2011

"Waiting for Superman"

I watched the 2010 documentary, "Waiting for Superman" today.  It was written to shed light on our failing public school system.  It highlighted several students and their families all over the country who were seeking opportunities for success outside the neighborhood school and were trying to get accepted into charter schools.  The only way to get in is to win in a lottery-style selection process.  Some schools have over 700 applicants for only 40 spaces.  It was so hard to watch.  All those families begging for a school that works!!! 

Here are some quotes I took from the movie:
    What works?  (in reference with the enormous success of RIPP charter schools that are popping up all over)
            quality teachers
            more classroom time
            world class standards
            high expectations
            real accountability

(In reference to the broken system) - the problem is complex, the steps are simple. 
     starts with teachers becoming the very best
     leaders removing the barriers to change
     neighbors committed to their school
     you willing to act

Great schools won't come from winning the lottery, they won't come from "Superman", they will come from you.

I recommend checking out the movie!  I found some parts eye-opening to say the least.

Feingold diet video

This is worth watching.  I think it's amazing to see the impact the diet has children's learning.

Feingold Part 1 (of 2)

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

news post to watch

http://abcnews.go.com/Health/food-dyes-hyperactivity/story?id=13221478

One to watch and think about!

HealthWatch: Food Dye And ADHDCBS New York

HealthWatch: Food Dye And ADHDCBS New York

Food Dye and it's effects on children

I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't witnessed this personally.  One of my granddaughters has had a complete change of behavior since going dye-free.  She is only 5 years old and was diagnosed with a sleep disorder, separation anxiety, general anxiety... what a remarkable turn around.  And I salute my daughter for trying the dye-free option.  It is not easy!!  Why do we still put this stuff in food?  I am just wondering...