1. Give sufficient transition time between learning activities for the learner to organize their learning materials.
2. Teach the learner time management skills. Get the learner to make a daily plan and follow it. Urge the learner to avoid becoming distracted by activities, impulses, and moods.
3. Give the learner oral reminders of appropriate learning materials required for each learning experience.
4. Teach the learner to prioritize tasks according to importance, length, etc.
5. Praise the learner for having appropriate learning materials for specific learning activities : (a) give the learner a tangible reward (e.g., privileges such as leading the line, handing out learning materials, 10 minutes of free time, etc.), or (b) give the learner an intangible reward (e.g., praise, handshake, smile, etc.).
6. Teach the learner how to safeguard rather than waste learning materials (e.g., amount of glue, paper, tape, etc., to use; putting lids, caps, tops on such learning materials as markers, pens, bottles, jars, cans, etc.).
7. Draft an agreement with the learner stipulating what behavior is required (e.g., having appropriate learning materials for specific learning activities ) and which reinforcement will be implemented when the agreement has been met.
8. Get the learner to create and keep one list of things to do to organize and focus on what needs to be accomplished for a specific task, day, etc.
9. Consider using an education app to help the student sharpen their organizational skills. Click here to view a list of apps that we recommend.

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According to the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children), the age range for students included in pre-K education is from birth to age eight. Pre-K teachers directly influence the development of children. Students’ pre-K experience has the potential to influence the rest of their educational journey and determine their progress rate.

The main focus at the pre-K level is to get students ready for kindergarten. Some typical activities handled by pre-K teachers are:

·         Planning the curriculum: This involves preparing daily lessons and exercises and following age-appropriate curriculum principles for preschoolers, like identifying colors, counting single-digit numbers, memorizing the alphabet, etc.

·         Teaching personal hygiene: This includes helping students understand the advantages of personal health habits, such as washing hands, eating nutritional snacks, dressing, and grooming.

·         Serving meals: The teachers serve snacks and/or lunches to students in line with district and school nutritional policies and help students clean up after mealtime.

·         Organizing fun activities: This refers to hosting arts and crafts activities, games, etc., designed to help students learn, expend their energy, and work in groups.

·         Handling lead procedures: This involves deciding the students’ seating plans, keeping attendance records, and executing school procedures.

·         Handling supplies: Pre-K teachers choose supplies, such as storybooks, arts and crafts, and other learning tools, keep them organized in the store, and help students take and return these supplies before and after activities.

·         Storytelling: This involves reading stories from age-appropriate books and pushing students to interact through innovative group discussions.

·         Social development: Whether students are completing tasks, working on a specific part of the curriculum, or engaged in play activities, their teachers help them integrate with one another and network in groups.

·         Dealing with behavior issues: Pre-K teachers spot emotional problems and handle them together with the student’s parents or guardians during parent-teacher meetings.

·         Staff meetings: This includes attending staff meetings and working with colleagues to design the curriculum and talk about student progress.

·         Offer professional support: Pre-K teachers also work with school staff, such as nurses, counselors, and psychologists, specializing in early childhood behavior management and development issues.

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One of the first measures taken by the administration was to propose a $1.9 trillion stimulus package known as the American Rescue Plan. This proposal includes a significant amount of funds dedicated to education, with an emphasis on reopening and maintaining safe schools, providing better resources for students, and mitigating learning loss. This has been welcomed by educators across the country, who have struggled for the past year to provide quality education to students while navigating the pandemic’s challenges.

Another key area of focus for the administration has been on increasing access to higher education and making it more affordable. President Biden has proposed a series of measures to help students, including the doubling of the Pell Grant program, expanding debt cancellation, and free community college. These measures aim to make education accessible to more individuals, and hopefully, decrease the financial burdens that students often face.

Furthermore, the administration recognizes the importance of addressing student loan debt, which has become a significant concern for many individuals. The proposal of DAFSA forgiveness for low-income borrowers and plans to simplify the loan repayment process are some of the steps taken towards reducing the student loan crisis.

However, the Biden Administration’s plan for education has not been without criticism. Some argue that the proposal of free community college does not go far enough and that more needs to be done to reduce the cost of higher education further. Critics also point out that the administration is not doing enough to address systemic inequities that exist in the education system.

Overall, the Biden administration has taken significant steps to prioritize education and increase access to education across the country. With a focus on reopening schools safely, investing in quality resources, providing affordable higher education and reducing student loan debt, and addressing systemic inequities, the Biden administration seems to be making strides in improving education standards in the US. However, as the education system faces continuing challenges, it is crucial that the administration continues to listen to educators and advocates to ensure that the necessary efforts are made towards equitable and high-quality education for all.  

The post How is the Biden Administration Performing in the Area of Education? appeared first on The Edvocate.

As the aftermath of the pandemic continues to affect the daily lives of individuals around the globe, the long-term effects of school closures are being recognized as a legacy of the pandemic. After all, school closures have left many students grappling with academic, social, emotional, and psychological challenges that may have lasting effects on their trajectory and success.

The academic impact of COVID-19 school closures cannot be overlooked. With millions of students out of school for months, even years, in some cases, there have been significant disruptions to the education system. Many students lacked access to quality remote learning, while others grappled with the challenges of learning through screens. The closure of physical classrooms also meant that students missed out on valuable social interaction and guidance from teachers.

As a result, many young people have experienced a significant decline in their academic performance, particularly in subjects like math and science. The gap between high-achieving and low-achieving students has also widened. This academic lag can lead to long-term consequences such as delayed graduation, missed career opportunities, and reduced earning potential.

Besides the academic challenges, COVID-19 school closures have also impacted students’ mental health. Many students have been grappling with isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. The pandemic’s uncertainty has added to student stress, leading to many teens seeking support for their mental and emotional health.

Social isolation has disrupted the mentorship relationships that exist between many students and their teachers, counselors, and coaches. Many students have also been unable to compete in or attend extracurricular activities, leading to a sense of loss and missed opportunities.

Moreover, with the sudden shift to remote learning, the challenges of navigating technology and new platforms to get coursework have induced stress and anxiety among students. With chronic absenteeism on the rise, students are going to struggle to keep up with their work. The lost years of learning, not only during the pandemic but through remote learning and back again to traditional classrooms, have the potential to hold back students from further academic success.

The post COVID-19 School Closures Leave a Lasting Make on Students appeared first on The Edvocate.

1. Tech Gadgets

One of the best graduation gifts is a tech gadget that your graduate will use for years. Among the most popular tech gifts include smartphones, laptops, tablets, or cameras. These tech gadgets help them stay connected and productive even after graduation. Think of the latest tech trends, and your grad will be forever grateful.

2. Travel Vouchers

Adulting can be challenging for most graduates. They deserve to have some fun and relax after years of hard work. With travel vouchers, you can help them explore new places and take a break from their busy lives. These vouchers can be applied towards airline tickets, hotel reservations, and even rental cars. The best thing about travel vouchers is that they are flexible, and the graduate can choose their destination.

3. Personalized Gifts

One of the most thoughtful graduation gifts is personalized gifts. These gifts show that you put extra effort into selecting the perfect gift for your grad. You can personalize anything from jewelry, photo books, phone cases, mugs, or blankets. These gifts will always be cherished and evoke memories from graduation day.

4. Career Advice Books

As your graduate transitions from a student to a professional, they may need guidance and help identifying their career goals. Career advice books such as “What Color Is Your Parachute?” can help them navigate the job market and find their dream job. These books will be a valuable resource to them as they start their careers.

5. Professional Apparel

Professional attire can be expensive, and your graduate may not have the funds to buy all the appropriate work clothes. As a graduation gift, you can buy them a business suit, briefcase, or a professional watch. These items will be handy as they start their careers and attend job interviews.

6. Health and Wellness Gifts

Graduates have a lot going on as they transition from school to work, and they may not have the time or energy to focus on their health and wellness. A gift certificate to a gym, exercise equipment, yoga mats, or a spa treatment package can help your graduate prioritize their health and well-being.

In conclusion, these are the best graduation gift ideas that will make your graduate feel loved and appreciated. No matter what you choose, remember to include a heartfelt message to congratulate them on their achievements. They will cherish the gift and the thought that went behind it for years to come.  

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1. Themed Party

Choose a theme that reflects the graduate’s interests or future plans. Perhaps a beach party, a Hollywood-style gala, or a sports theme party. A themed party will add color, life, and character to the festivities.

2. Food Stations

Instead of a traditional buffet, set up different food stations with different themes. For instance, create a taco station, a popcorn bar, a pizza station, or a dessert table. This will offer an impressive variety of scrumptious treats and allow guests to constantly mingle and move around.

3. Photo Booth

Hiring a photo booth or setting up a DIY one will create an excellent way for guests to capture fun memories and moments with the graduate. The photos can also serve as a party souvenir. You can add fun props to the photo booth and customize the backdrop to match the party’s theme.

4. Customized Favors

Give guests a party favor, which could be anything from personalized T-shirts, keychains, collapsible water bottles, or custom-made cupcakes. These customized gifts will remind guests of your graduate’s special day.

5. Games and Activities

These could include anything from video games, card games, board games, trivia games, or a karaoke contest. These types of activities provide a fun and competitive way for guests to engage and interact with one another.

6. Decorations

Make sure you create a festive atmosphere by using decorations such as balloons, streamers, banners, and confetti. Don’t forget to incorporate the graduate’s school colors to amplify the graduation spirit. Proper decorations will also provide great photo opportunities.

7. Music

Music is an essential element of any party, and your graduate’s celebration should be no exception. Choose a playlist that reflects the graduate’s music taste and the party’s theme. You may even hire a DJ, create a dance floor, or provide some fun party lights to enhance the mood.

In conclusion, these are just some of the best graduation party ideas to help celebrate the moment in style. Remember to tailor the party to the graduate’s personality, and create an atmosphere filled with fun, laughter, and celebration! 

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One reason for the need for school building replacements is age. Many schools in America were built in the early 20th century and have reached the end of their lifespan. Years of wear and tear have resulted in many structural and functional problems in the buildings, making them inefficient and potentially unsafe for students and staff.

Another reason is outdated infrastructure. Many older school buildings lack updated electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. These systems are essential for a healthy and comfortable learning environment. Outdated infrastructure can lead to high energy costs, poor air quality, and inconsistent temperatures, all of which can negatively impact student learning and health.

Many school buildings also suffer from poor and outdated classroom designs. As our understanding of how students learn has evolved, students’ needs have changed. Outdated classroom designs can hinder the learning process and negatively affect students’ academic performance.

In addition to these factors, natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes have damaged many school buildings, rendering them unsuitable for use. Climate conditions such as extreme heat, snow and rain, can also greatly magnify ongoing wear and tear of school buildings. These extreme weather conditions leave school buildings vulnerable and susceptible to weather-related damage.

The economic implications of deferred maintenance are alarmingly high. Fixing building components piecemeal would cost more because it will require maintenance, frequent replacements of outdated systems, and other operational interventions. The cost of additions and alterations that contribute to upkeep, such as upgrading mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, can eat into the school’s budget in the long run.

To address these concerns, many schools have developed plans to replace or renovate their structures. It’s important to invest in modern, well-designed, and sustainable schools to create a safe and productive learning environment for our students. School districts must increasingly seek innovative building solutions to promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and cost savings.

In conclusion, replacing America’s aging and poorly maintained school buildings is a necessary step to ensure the success of our students, staff, and communities. School buildings should be functional, safe, and comfortable environments that promote effective learning, support student health and reduce school costs. Investing in modern schools is an investment in America’s future.  

The post Why Many School Buildings in America Need to Be Replaced appeared first on The Edvocate.

The reason why the water is not safe to drink varies depending on the school district. However, the most common reason is the presence of lead in the water. Lead is a toxic metal found in old pipes and plumbing fixtures. When water passes through them, lead particles can mix into the water supply, which can cause serious health problems when ingested.

Lead poisoning has been linked to developmental delays, behavior problems, and learning difficulties in children. It can also affect adults who have been exposed to lead for prolonged periods of time. This is a serious problem that needs immediate attention from school officials.

The problem with lead in the water supply is not new. In fact, it has been a concern for decades. The government has taken measures to reduce the amount of lead in the environment, but it is still a prevalent problem in some areas. School officials must take responsibility for ensuring that their students have access to safe drinking water.

One way to address this problem is to replace old plumbing systems with new ones that are free from lead. This is a costly solution, but it is necessary to protect the health of students. Another way is to install water filtration systems that can remove lead particles from the water. Filtration systems are less expensive and can be installed in areas that are more prone to lead contamination.

School officials should also be transparent about the quality of their water supply. Parents and students need to know if their drinking water is safe or not. Regular testing should be conducted to monitor the level of lead in the water.

The water crisis in many school districts is a serious problem that must be addressed immediately. Students and staff members deserve to have access to safe drinking water. It is the responsibility of school officials to take action and ensure that their water supply is free from lead and other contaminants. We cannot afford to ignore this problem any longer.     

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