News

RA self-nomination form available online

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:06:05 -0500

NJEA members who wish to self-nominate for state delegate positions to the 2012 NEA Representative Assembly (NEA Convention) have the option of doing so online. Sign into Members Only to view procedure and form.

Online self-nominations must be received at NJEA headquarters by 5 p.m. on Feb. 27, 2012.

Research with an agenda

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:01:30 -0500

Everyone considers Ms. Jones a great teacher. Anyone who enters her classroom comments on the great learning environment she’s created. Former students visit her almost every week tracing their successes back to her. Parents do everything they can to have their children placed in her class. She leads one of her school’s professional learning communities.

Ms. Jones looks forward to being evaluated because she considers it a great opportunity to make her teaching practice even better.

But this year she has a new building principal. Last fall Ms. Jones had her first evaluation.

And what she found in the principal’s write-up stunned her.

After years of outstanding ratings, “needs improvement” is checked off in several areas, and here’s why:

Her lesson objective wasn’t written on the right-hand side of the board.
Her plan book wasn’t opened to the day’s lesson.
Her window shades were uneven.

“What do any of these have to do with my students’ learning?” she wondered.

New Jersey's "D+"

Late last month, New Jersey residents may have been similarly scratching their heads.

New Jersey is considered one of the best places in the nation to educate children. The 2011 administration of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) placed our reading and math scores among the nation’s best. We boast the highest graduation rate in the nation among all students generally and among minority students in particular.
Read more good news about NJ's public schools

At last year’s NJEA Convention, educator and historian Diane Ravitch quipped that today’s brand of education reformers should come to New Jersey, not to tell us what to do, but to learn from us how to do it well.

We’re used to hearing good things about our schools, our students, and our teachers.

So when even the right-wing American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) reported that New Jersey outperformed every state on the NAEP except Vermont and Massachusetts, you’d think ALEC would seek to identify the causes of that success and promote them for national emulation.

After all, another part of ALEC’s report reads, “…the greatest factor regarding a student’s academic success within school walls is teacher effectiveness.” One would think we must be doing something right when it comes to teacher quality.

Instead, ALEC placed into its report a nonsensical grade assigned to New Jersey by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ): a D+ for Teacher Quality and Policies.

Florida, which scored 12^th on the NAEP, earned a C. South Carolina, which scored 50^th on the NAEP, earned a C-.

Vermont, ranked second on the NAEP, received an F from ALEC on Teacher Quality and Policies. First-ranked Massachusetts got a D+. In fact, no state that ranks in the top 10 in student performance scored higher than a D.

Window shades and merit pay

High performing New Jersey, Vermont, and Massachusetts received poor grades from ALEC for the same reason that Ms. Jones scored “needs improvement” on her evaluation: they were measured on criteria that has no basis in research.

Here’s why we earned a D+ from NCTQ:

ALEC and NCTQ support merit pay despite the absence of research backing it as a means to improve student performance.
ALEC and NCTQ report that “objective evidence of student learning” [read standardized test scores] are not the “preponderant criterion of teacher evaluations.”
ALEC and NCTQ mischaracterize tenure and evaluation in New Jersey.
ALEC and NCTQ oppose seniority as a fair means of laying teachers off during reductions in force.
ALEC and NCTQ oppose defined-benefit pensions.

Does any of this sound familiar? It should.

ALEC’s influence was at play in many of the state battles last year that garnered national attention. ALEC is a corporate-funded, right-wing think tank that specializes in creating model legislation, primarily for state legislatures. It claims to have nearly 2,000 state legislators among its members.

As NCTQ graded states, it was not measuring teachers and state policies based upon classroom performance or research on how students learn. NCTQ was measuring states against its political agenda. And that agenda is better served when the news blares the headline that in a national research study, high performing states like New Jersey earned a D for teacher quality.

Bad press about New Jersey’s public schools serves ALEC and its band of corporate education “reformers,” including our own governor. It does not, however, serve New Jersey’s students.

New Jersey’s teachers are among the very best in the nation. Their real-world results prove that. The state’s teacher policies helped build this excellent workforce.

When organizations like NCTQ and ALEC twist or disregard the data to support a political agenda, it’s irresponsible. When the media give them a largely uncritical platform to advance that agenda, it’s even worse.

This editorial appears in the February issue of the NJEA Reporter.

New Jersey's public schools get high marks once again

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:58:58 -0500

New Jersey's public schools once again received high marks in Education Week's Quality Counts report, an annual survey of the education systems in all 50 states. New Jersey was ranked 6th overall, receiving a grade of B-.

The state excelled in the following areas:

Chance for success
K-12 achievement
School Finance

Read full article and related stories at www.edlawcenter.org.

Can WE talk Tech?

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:58:08 -0500

The West Essex Regional School District is hosting a one-day Technology Symposium for teachers (K-12), administrators, media specialists, school boards, and interested community members on the innovative use of technology in education on March 17, 2012.

Don’t miss keynote addresses by these leaders in the field:

Eric Sheninger, Principal of New Milford High School, will speak on educational leadership in this ever-changing digital world.

Lisa Thumann, a Google Certified Teacher and Trainer, and Director of Innovative Learning Technology at the School for Global Education and Innovation at Kean University, will explain how students, educators, and administrators are using digital tools to communicate, collaborate, and create in New Jersey classrooms.

Workshops on a variety of “hot” topics will be offered, including Prezi, Edmodo, Moodle, Flip Cameras, Web 2.0 applications for Math, Smart Boards, Podcasts, Wikis, Digital Stories, and many more. Learn how educators are applying these tools in the classroom and across all grade levels and disciplines to increase student learning.

Date: Saturday, March 17, 2012
Location: West Essex Regional High School, 65 W. Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, NJ
Time: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Breakfast and Lunch will be provided.
Cost: FREE
Professional Development Credits will be given for hours attended.
Follow on Twitter: #wetech12

For more information and to register for the Tech Symposium, visit www.westex.org/wetech. Space is limited, so sign up today!

email contact: rwilliam@westex.org, rrich@westex.org or cspinell@westex.org

Middle schoolers learn to love learning at Science Fiction and Fantasy Conference

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:44:02 -0500

by David Eisenberg

Award-winning fantasy novelist Noelle Kalipetis, shown with library media specialist David Eisenberg, presented at Glen Meadow Middle School's Science Fiction and Fantasy Conference.

For decades, Science Fiction and Fantasy Conferences have offered aspiring writers, artists, and fans the opportunity to meet their heroes. In an event like none other, celebrity authors, illustrators, actors, directors, and publishers gather in fantastical costumes to casually mingle, teach, and just hang out with those who admire them so dearly. While the national and international events appeal to perhaps a more targeted audience of devout adult fans, the concept resonates exceptionally well with middle school students.

To bring the excitement of Comic-Con, the World Fantasy Conference, and Star Trek Conventions to Glen Meadow Middle School, we held our own two-day Science Fiction and Fantasy Conference in December. The event featured professional speakers and activities with science fiction and fantasy themes, to encourage a love for reading, writing, art, and music.

The first day was focused on arts and music. A graphic designer (who also happened to be Vernon’s former mayor)discussed his career and talked about his work as the owner of the Vernon-based design firm Carew Graphics. In the afternoon, a professional pianist and Executive Director of the Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council spoke with arts and music classes about her career and the many arts programs her organization sponsors throughout the county.

On Day Two, Glen Meadow Middle School Library hosted a visit from national award-winning fantasy writer Noelle Kalipetis, author of three published fantasy novels. Kalipetis inspired middle school language arts students with her story of graduating from Glen Meadow to become the successful author of three published novels. After reading excerpts from her novels, she shared her own touching story of her teenage years in Vernon, her struggles and successes as a young author, and encouraged students to read books from our library, study hard, and pursue college. Kalipetis stayed through the students’ lunch periods as well, while she watched fantasy movies together with our students.

As a special treat a few days after the conference, David Stevenson (shown left), senior art director for Random House, Del Rey, and Spectra Books spoke to our school’s art and career students. Stevenson has designed book jackets, television commercials, and supervised art for such world-renowned franchises as Star Wars, The Hobbit, and A Game of Thrones. Following his presentation, Stevenson answered students’ questions and allowed them to try on an actual Storm Trooper helmet used in the “Star Wars” movies.

While engaging in fun activities that let middle school kids feel like kids, they learned in-depth knowledge from experts about art, literature, and music. Following the event, many of our students enthusiastically expressed new career goals and aspirations for their futures.

David Eisenberg is a school library media specialist at Glen Meadow Middle School in Vernon. He also serves as the president of the Sussex County Library Media Association.

NJ legislators become teachers for the day

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:05:00 -0500

In response to Hopewell Valley’s Education Association’s (HVEA) Teacher for a Day Challenge, four New Jersey legislators learned firsthand what it’s like to walk a mile in educators’ shoes.

Senator Linda Greenstein (D-14) joined Timberlane Middle School science teacher Mrs. Nancy Greener’s class in dissecting lumps of compost.

“I didn’t put my hands in there, the students dissected the compost,” said Greenstein. “But Mrs. Greener dove into the dissection with gusto. Teachers are not like they were in the old days, when I went to school, and they stood at the front of the classroom.”

Greenstein, a lawyer by training, was amazed at just how different the classroom experience has changed over the years. “Today, teachers are really engaged, and this experiential learning is something the kids will really remember. I was also surprised at how teaching has become so physically demanding.”

Showing lawmakers what teachers do every day was the idea behind NJEA’s Teacher for the Day Challenge, which the HVEA embraced this winter.

Left to right: Hopewell Elementary teacher Kym Harjes; HVEA President and Hopewell Elementary teacher Heidi Olson; Central High School teacher Dan Balog; Timberlane Middle School teacher Nancy Greener; Assemblyman Dan Benson (D-14th District); State Sen. Linda Greenstein (D- 14th District); HVRSD Superintendent Tom Smith; Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-15th District) ; Hopewell Valley Regional School Board President Lisa Wolff; Stony Brook Elementary Teacher Janet Cole; Assemblyman Reed Gusciora (D-15th District.)

“Education is in the forefront of many conversations and decisions,” stated HVEA President Heidi Olson, a special education teacher at Hopewell Elementary School. “We believe that for people to make valid decisions that affect our schools, they should have the knowledge and current understanding of the achievements and challenges of today’s classrooms.”

“By inviting decision makers into our classes, we can provide them with that knowledge,” Olson continued. “We also wanted to remind legislators about all of the wonderful things that happen in our classrooms and of how hard our teachers and students work.”

The event was enthusiastically supported by Hopewell Valley Regional School District Superintendent Thomas A. Smith.

“I support anything that brings together the two worlds of education and government,” said Dr. Smith. “We need each other now more than ever, and Teacher for the Day is a great way to share our experiences and points of view.”

At Stony Brook Elementary School, Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, (D-15) led second graders in Janet Cole’s class in a discussion about all of the December holidays that different cultures celebrate. At Central High School, Assemblyman Daniel R. Benson (D-14) taught World History lessons for the day with teachers Jeff Neuman and Dan Balog, while at Hopewell Elementary, Assemblyman Reed Gusciora (D-15) worked side by side on mathematics with Kym Harjes’ second grade class.

“It was a great opportunity to see first-hand the teaching that goes into helping students prepare for a global economy,” said Assemblyman Gusciora. “We’re preparing them for a complex world, and teachers are on the front lines of this, demonstrating hard work and dedication.”

“It was a great opportunity to see how bright the children are and how hard the teachers work,” declared Assemblywoman Watson-Coleman.

Assemblyman Benson said he’ll use his day in the classroom as a reference point when at work in the Legislature.

“This will help us, when working with our fellow legislators, in breaking down any misconceptions they may have about education,” he said.

Olson believed this program was just the beginning of forging new relationships with local legislators and members of the Hopewell Valley community in order to work together to strengthen the district’s schools.

“This was a very exciting and positive event for our members, our students, and the legislators. We are looking forward to hosting a second event this spring and inviting more of our locally elected leaders and community members to participate. Great things happen when people are informed and work together.”

BlueClaws host College Fair Night

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:51:39 -0500

On May 24, the Lakewood BlueClaws will take on the Hagerstown Suns at 6:35 p.m. Come to the ballpark early for an opportunity to meet college recruiters during College Fair Night. Students enjoy the game for free and family members can purchase tickets for $7. For more information, contact Andy Granozio at 732-901-7000, ext. 175 or send an e-mail to agranozio@blueclaws.com.

Galloway Township EA member wins national award

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:35:55 -0500

Mrs. Terry Dougherty is a third grader teacher at Roland Rogers Elementary School in Galloway Township, and a member of the Galloway Township Education Association. She is also the national winner in the teaching challenge The Great American Teach Off sponsored by GOOD and The University of Phoenix. She was nominated by the Rotary Club of Absecon/Galloway NJ for the program she created three years ago, Free Military Child Tutoring: They are Heroes Too! Mrs. Dougherty and her family recently visited the White House as guests of Joining Forces Executive Director, CAPT Bradley Cooper.

As a military spouse of thirty years and mother, Mrs. Dougherty understands the separation and transition issues that these resilient children face and is making a difference by offering free tutoring services. This tutoring program gives military children; open to all branches of our Armed Forces, the opportunity for one on one instruction in advanced lessons or remedial needs. The children can then experience success and a smooth transition in their new schools.

Read the full article on the White House website.

Nominate a champion of minority rights

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:33:24 -0500

NJEA announces a new opportunity to honor members who have been champions of ethnic minority rights/issues and have significantly affected education and the achievement of equal opportunity for those facing discrimination due to their ethnicity.

The award will be presented on Friday, June 1 by the NJEA Minority Leadership and Recruitment (MLR) Committee at its annual conference. To be eligible the honored individual must be an NJEA member or retired member in good standing for the past three years.

Criteria

The nominee must be a member who demonstrates leadership in ethnic minority issues, positively affected ethnic and minority members , and performs at least one of the following activities.

Establishes programs that engage and involve the community in the improvement of public education for all students.
Promotes the inclusion of diversity and social justice education in in-service and pre-service programs as well as in association training.
Works in partnership with other agencies/groups to promote ethnic-minority educational issues within his or her community.

Nomination procedures

Include a current 8 x 10 inch professional quality photo of the nominee. Scanned photos or photos printed from computers are not permitted. Print the nominee’s name on the back of the photo.

Nominations will be accepted from individual active or retired members of NJEA local and county affiliates. The award recipient must be available to attend the recognition dinner at the NJEA MLR Conference on June 1. The MLR Committee will make the final selection with the approval of the NJEA Executive Committee.

Nominations must be accompanied by appropriate documentation that may include newspaper clippings, newsletters, online reports, programs, certificates, citations, pictures, and other such materials.

Nomination forms, photos, and documentation must be postmarked by March 5, 2012.

Download nomination form

Questions? Email Thomas Hardy at thardy@njea.org.

Nominate an equality champion

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:19:15 -0500

NJEA announces a new opportunity to honor members and others who have been champions in defense of human and civil rights that have significantly affected education and the achievement of equal opportunity for those facing discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The award is presented by the NJEA Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Committee in conjunction with the Minority Leadership and Recruitment (MLR) Committee. The award will be presented on Friday, June 1 at the NJEA MLR Conference.

Criteria

To be eligible for the award the nominee must meet one or more of the following:

Promotes appreciation for diversity with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Work to eliminate discrimination or abusive behavior toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) groups and individuals.
Demonstrates leadership and creativity in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ students and others in the school community.
Develops curricula that is inclusive of positive images related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Champions policy and/or legislation that improve conditions and opportunities for LGBT individuals in school environments.

Nomination procedures

The nominee may be an individual, a group, or an organization working in the area of human and civil rights, as related to sexual orientation and gender identity, and if eligible for membership, must be NJEA members.
Nominations will be accepted from individual active or retired members or NJEA local and county affiliates.
Nominations must be accompanied by appropriate documentation that may include newspaper clippings, newsletters, online reports, programs, certificates, citations pictures, and other such materials. No application forms or materials received after the deadline will be considered.
Nomination forms and documentation must be received by March 5, 2012.
The NJEA SOGI Committee will make the final selection with the approval of the NJEA Executive Committee.
The chosen nominee must be available to attend the MLR Conference in June and provide a current 8 x 10 inch professional quality photo for publication.
Download nomination form

Questions? Email Tom Falocco at tfalocco@njea.org.

Frequently asked questions on the November School Elections Bill

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:11:05 -0500

On Jan. 17, Gov. Chris Christie signed a bill, P.L.2011, c.202, allowing districts, municipalities, or voters to opt to move the annual school election to the general election in November. This action eliminates the vote on school budgets for such districts, except for separate proposals to spend above the cap—i.e., if the proposed budget is at or below cap, then there will be no public vote on the budget.

Frequently asked questions

When can we expect to see school elections move to November?

As a result of this legislation, we may immediately start seeing boards of education or municipalities pass resolutions to move this year’s April elections to November.

Who can decide to move a school election date and how long does it take to initiate the move?

School boards, municipalities, or voters can initiate the change in date. A school election can be moved immediately following a school board or municipal resolution. There is a two-step process to move the election via voter petition. Moving the election via voter petition can only be done in November during the general election.

How do you move a school election via school board resolution?

The school board must adopt a resolution moving school elections to November.
If the resolution is adopted, the election of board members and second above cap budget questions shall be moved to November.
The school board must approve a resolution no later than February 17, 2012, and must immediately notify the county clerk in order to move school elections for 2012.
Procedures are the same for a municipal resolution.

How do you move a school election via municipal resolution?

The municipality must adopt a resolution moving school elections to November.
If the resolution is adopted, the election of board members and second above cap budget questions shall be moved to November.
The municipality must approve a resolution no later than February 17, 2012, and must immediately notify the county clerk in order to move school elections for 2012.
Procedures are the same for a school board resolution.

How can a school election be moved by voter petition?

Any citizen can initiate a petition to request a vote to move school elections from April to November.
To be valid, the number of signatures on the petition must be equal to or greater than 15 percent of the total number of votes cast in the previous presidential election.
The petition must be filed with the district’s board of education at least 60 days prior to the November general election.
A successful petition will result in a ballot question at the next general election asking voters to approve moving school elections from April to November.

What happens if the ballot question to move the election fails?

A subsequent petition to move the election cannot be filed until at least one year after the defeat. This is to prevent the question from going on the ballot every November.

Who pays for the costs associated with moving the school election?

If a school election is moved to November, the school board will be required to pay for any additional costs associated with this move, regardless of the mechanism (municipal resolution, voter petition, school board resolution) used to move the vote.

If a district budget is at or under cap and the school election is moved to November, then will there be a vote on the budget?

No, any district that budgets at or under cap and moves the election, does not vote on the budget. There will be a vote for school board candidates and any second questions.

If a district moves its school elections to November and budgets above cap, then is there a vote on the budget?

Yes, voters will vote on the portion of the budget that is above the cap. In addition, voters also will vote for school board candidates.

If a district budgets at or below cap and does NOT move the election, then is there a vote on the budget?

Yes, any district that does not move its school elections to November will continue to hold school elections as they do now in April.

If a district moves its school election to November, can it be moved back?

The election may not be moved back to April until the completion of four election cycles, regardless of the procedure that was originally used to move the election to November.

What are the procedures to move a school election back to April?

The procedures to move a school election back to April, including a vote on the entire budget, can be accomplished using any of the procedures that are used to move the elections to November. However, school elections cannot be moved back until the completion of four election cycles.

If the school election moves to November, will the school board candidate elections continue to be non-partisan?

Yes, the school board candidate election remains non-partisan even if moved to the November general election ballot.

What happens to board members whose terms expire in April if school elections are moved to November?

School board members whose terms end in April will maintain their seats until the re-organization in January.
School board members who are elected in November will take their seats at the re-organization in January.

What is the procedure for moving school elections in regional school districts?

If the board of education of a regional school district passes a resolution to move the election from April to November, the election shall be moved. The constituent districts’ school elections are unaffected by this decision.
If one of the municipalities in a regional school district passes a resolution to move the election from April to November, then the other municipality(ies) must also do so in order for the regional school election to be moved.
To move the school election through petition and subsequent voter approval, the petition must have at least 15 percent of the total number of voters in the last presidential election in all districts to place the question on the ballot. A simple majority of voters in that regional district then must approve the ballot question to move the election from April to November.
If all the constituent districts move each of their school elections to November, the regional district must move its school election to November.

How will the budget timeline be affected if a district moves its school election?

If the election remains in April, there are no changes to the current procedures and timelines.
Budgeting guidelines and timelines will be unchanged regardless of when elections are to take place.
Districts that move their elections to November must submit temporary budgets by May 19. This is also the date when budgets defeated in the April elections must be certified and submitted to the Executive County Superintendent.

How does this law affect special elections dealing with bond referenda?

This law does not affect special elections dealing with bond referenda.

What happens if a school election remains in April?

If districts maintain their school elections in April, then there are no changes to the procedures they currently follow and voters will continue to vote on the school budget.

How will second questions be affected if a school election is changed to November?

Second questions are submitted for voter approval consistent with current regulations except that the vote will take place in November.

New Jersey Hall of Fame: More than a celebration

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:59:52 -0500

Queen Latifah, Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi … the New Jersey Hall of Fame has star power that you will find exciting and engaging. But since the inception of the Hall of Fame a few years ago, teachers have found that it provides more than just a celebration of great New Jerseyans. It also provides effective opportunities to teach young people about our State’s history, to introduce them to the voting process, to build leadership skills, and to boost pride in themselves and their community. As New Jersey teachers prepare young people to pursue their dreams and strive to accomplish great things, a new curriculum developed with the New Jersey Hall of Fame, provides some creative lesson plans to do just that.

The New Jersey Hall of Fame curriculum offers a unique opportunity for teachers to capitalize on the accomplishments of some remarkable New Jersey citizens and to inspire students to reach for the stars. The fun, yet thoughtful, activities help students to identify with others who not only share their Jersey roots, but share similar experiences and challenges. By learning about New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees, students can better recognize and develop the skills they need to reach their goals while strengthening their pride in their community.

The curriculum is divided into three units. The first unit, “Achievements of New Jersey Citizens: The New Jersey Hall of Fame,” helps students identify leadership qualities in Hall of Fame members, as well as in themselves. Students learn more about the role of New Jersey and its citizens in the larger context of United States and world history. Even more, they will develop an understanding between character and achievement. By presenting positive role models, this unit seeks to help young people make informed decisions about their lives.

Unit Two, “Voting for Hall of Fame Nominees,” introduces students to the voting process. The unit focuses on the rights and responsibilities of United States citizens. Because students can actually vote in an election, the voting process comes alive for them through an interdisciplinary approach that can be modified for grades six through 12. The lessons challenge students to develop critical thinking skills, communicate ideas, and reflect to understand themselves and their community better. They learn firsthand how they can affect decisions on major issues and they develop practical skills through the collaborative and independent activities.

In Unit Three, “Future New Jersey Hall of Fame Nominees,” students take charge in a project that will allow them to enhance academic skills while making an impact on their school and community. Essential questions are raised, such as “What makes a person an effective leader?” or “How can I become a leader?” This unit helps young people understand the leadership qualities in notable New Jersey figures and helps them to look at their own world and its leaders. Most importantly, it seeks to develop leadership skills in your students.

The units are designed to be introduced into the classroom in ways that fit your overall lesson plans. Whether the activities serve to complement your current instructional path or you utilize all three units, you will find a new way to excite, inspire, and motivate your students.

The New Jersey Hall of Fame Curriculum Guide will be available at njea.org and on the New Jersey Hall of Fame website www.NJHallofFame.org at the end of January. From Thomas Edison to Toni Morrison, you will find many reasons to bring the New Jersey Hall of Fame into your classroom and inspire your students to chase their dreams.

Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame Essay Contest

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:32:47 -0500

Who belongs in the New Jersey Hall of Fame? The New Jersey Hall of Fame wants your students to participate in the decision making process. New Jersey public school students are invited to participate in fifth annual Hall of Fame Essay Contest. Students are asked to nominate potential inductees – living or dead – to the New Jersey Hall of Fame. Nominations can include famous people as well as ordinary citizens who do extraordinary things. Students should research or interview, if possible, the person they wish to nominate and write an essay no longer than 500 words.

Essays must be typed and double-spaced. The student must include his/her name, age, grade level as of April 29, 2012, address, phone number, parent/guardian’s name, school name, and school district. If the essay is a school project, the student should also include the name of the teacher who assigned the activity. Nominations must be postmarked by April 290, 2012 to be eligible.

Send entries to:

NJ Hall of Fame Contest, NJEA
180 West State Street
PO Box 1211
Trenton, NJ 08607-1211
Attn: Dawn Hiltner.

Entries will be divided into two age categories:

Intermediate (grades 4 through 8)
High School (grades 9-12)

Judging

Entries will be judged by a panel comprised of NJEA and New Jersey Hall of Fame representatives. Winners will be notified in mid-May. The winning students and three guests plus their teachers and a guest will be invited as VIP guests to the New Jersey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in early June at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. They will walk the red carpet with the stars, enjoy premium seating and attend a private party after the show. In addition, the winners will receive a check in the amount of $500.

The winning students’ nominations will be forwarded to the New Jersey Hall of Fame Academy for consideration. The Academy, comprised of 100 of New Jersey’s most prominent organizations, ethnic groups and media outlets, will review nominees and ultimately select Hall of Fame nominees to be put forth for the public vote in the fall. NJEA serves on the Voting Academy.

Creation of New Jersey Hall of Fame

Legislation to create The New Jersey Hall of Fame passed unanimously in the Legislature and was signed into law by the governor in 2005. The New Jersey Hall of Fame has been created to honor our sons and daughters who have made invaluable contributions to society and the world beyond. The Hall of Fame seeks to send a message to children that they can and should strive for excellence in any endeavor of their choosing. By presenting significant and powerful role models, the Hall of Fame when built will be a source of learning, inspiration and hope for all New Jersey children.

Mobile Museum

The Hall of Fame recently closed their exhibit on the boardwalk in Asbury Park, but is working on the creation of Mobile Museum to be on the road visiting schools and communities in the fall. Billed as a “field trip on wheels,” the Mobile Museum will be available for schools around the state and will feature interesting artifacts, videos, and other celebrations of Jersey’s best.

For more information about the New Jersey Hall of Fame, visit www.njhalloffame.org.

Building a nation of readers, one community at a time

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:56:48 -0500

It’s that time of year again! That’s right, NJEA members, it’s time to don your red and white stovepipe hats and join the nationwide celebration of reading. Friday, March 2, is Read Across America Day, and for the 14^th year running, NJEA is working to promote reading and literacy through Read Across America-NJ.

Read Across America is an annual celebration of reading that culminates this year on March 2, which would have been the 108^th birthday of prolific children’s book author Theodor Seuss Geisel, known and loved worldwide as Dr. Seuss.

Nationwide, educators and communities are urged to take part in “Building a Nation of Readers.” Schools around the country will celebrate the day with reading fairs, assemblies, and other literacy-related events.

Take part in the celebration

NJEA encourages all schools as well as members of their community to take part in the celebration. All participants are invited to pay tribute to Dr. Seuss by proudly wearing an iconic red-and-white stovepipe hat, the symbol of his signature character, the Cat in the Hat.

“Read Across America is one of our most popular programs of the year,” said NJEA President Barbara Keshishian. “As educators, we enjoy having the opportunity to celebrate reading in exciting and creative ways.”

NJEA has made a major investment in Read Across America, and each year that commitment grows. This year, NJEA’s thematic approach is rooted in the beloved Seuss character, the Lorax, who demonstrates the need for protecting our environment. Through Dr. Seuss’s lyrical prose, children of all ages learn how to do their part in making the world a better place—a life-long lesson sure to resonate in our communities.

In addition, thanks to NJEA’s ongoing passion to support childhood literacy in exciting ways, retired educators will again travel across the state in February and March dressed in seven-foot-tall professional Cat in the Hat costumes. They will visit over 250 schools, bringing the literacy message to thousands of students. Once again, the Cat will gift the library of each school he visits with another one of his favorite books; this year’s selection is The Lorax.

Along the way, the Cat will encounter the many creative ways that schools celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday, including everything from green eggs and ham breakfasts and pajama parties to reading extravaganzas featuring politicians, pundits, sports celebrities, and stars of television and movies.

“When we think about Read Across America, we often think of red and white stovepipe hats, visits from the Cat-in-the-Hat, and green eggs and ham, but this program is more than just fun and amusing celebration,” Keshishian stated. “Read Across America is about encouraging literacy and inspiring children to develop a genuine love of reading. When children see their parents and community leaders taking the time to read to them, it reinforces the importance of reading.”

ESP Conference inspires advocates

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:35:32 -0500

Patricia Niehaus of Burlington County Special Services EA describes a concern during the workshop "Combating Privatization" at the 2011 ESP Conference.

The NJEA Educational Support Professional (ESP) of the Year will be honored at the 38^th annual NJEA ESP Conference held Feb. 17-19 at the Hilton East Brunswick. NJEA will also confer the ESP Career Achievement and Friend of ESP awards there.

The weekend conference features 22 seminars that will give members the tools they need to become effective advocates. Except for those who select “Enhancing Your Speaking Skills,” participants may choose two seminars to attend. Unless otherwise noted, seminars are offered twice: once during Cycle I and again during Cycle II. Cycle I workshops run Friday evening through Saturday morning. Cycle II workshops run Saturday afternoon through Sunday.

Registration

Preregistration is required by Wednesday, Feb. 1. Additional information regarding the conference schedule, fees, and cancellation notices can be found on the registration form.

2012 Exceptional Children Conference

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:07:57 -0500

Mark your calendar to attend the NJEA Exceptional Children Conference on Saturday, March 10 at the Princeton Marriott at Forrestal. The theme of this year’s conference is “Creating Learning Environments for All Students.”

The program includes a keynote address from renowned educator Ian Jukes and six workshop offerings. A continental breakfast and lunch are included in the $60 registration fee.

Ian Jukes has been a teacher, administrator, writer, and university instructor. He is the director of the InfoSavvy Group, an educational consulting organization. He has written 12 books and had more than 100 articles published in various journals. He is the publisher of an online electronic newsletter, the Committed Sardine Blog.

His most recent book was Teaching the Digital Generation, co-authored with Ted McCain and Frank Kelly.

In addition to the keynote, registrants will choose two workshops from the six listed below to attend.

Teaching in the New Digital Landscape: New Visions for the 21^st Century: presented by Ian Jukes.
Infusing Technology into Your Classroom/Curriculum: presented by Heidi Hayes-Jacobs, executive director, Curriculum Mapping Institute and president, Curriculum Designers, Inc.
Positive Behavior Supports: presented by Sharon Lohrmann, director, N.J. Positive Behavior Support in Schools.
Universal Design for Learning: presented by Patti Ralabate, director of the National Center on UDL/CAST.
Response to Intervention: presented by Rich Wilson, NJEA associate director for Professional Development and Instructional Issues.
Effective Teaching Strategies for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders: presented by Elizabeth Neumann, professional services coordinator, Autism New Jersey.

Register

Be a part of the education reform discussion

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:56:03 -0500

Set aside Saturday, Feb. 25 for the NJEA Walter J. O’Brien Legislative Conference at the Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village. The annual conference is your opportunity to get educated, organized, and involved in the legislative issues that affect every public school employee.

In addition to a general session, members have an opportunity to meet with legislators in breakout sessions to discuss the issues.

Be part of the education reform discussion, combat attacks on collective bargaining, lead the fight for K-14 state aid, and lobby for your economic security.

To register, print and send in this flier with your payment. The registration deadline is Feb. 10.

Kids In Need Foundation Teacher Grant Opportunity

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:27:47 -0500

Applications will be available February 14 for the Elmer's Teacher Tool Kit grants. Sponsored by Elmer's Products, Inc., the Tool Kit grants are awarded to K-12 certified teachers in the U.S. who want to replicate already proven projects in their own classrooms during the 2012-2013 school year.

Projects available for replication can be viewed on the Kids In Need website. These grant awards are based on financial need, number of children who will benefit, and the teacher's commitment to complete the project. Special consideration is given to first year teachers. Find out more at www.kinf.org.

NJEA responds to Christie’s “State of the State” address

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:09:17 -0500

NJEA President Barbara Keshishian had a straightforward response to Gov. Chris Christie’s State of the State address, in which he urged legislators to support his proposals on tenure, seniority, compensation, and private school vouchers.

“Governor Christie needs to sit down with legislators, NJEA, and all other public education stakeholders to discuss research-based reforms that will keep the best teachers in our classrooms, and help our students succeed,” Keshishian said. “NJEA spent several months developing reform legislation that is solidly rooted in reliable research, and our proposals have gained the attention and interest of legislative leaders,” she said.

“Today, the governor cited a single research study on teacher evaluation, which has already been questioned by experts in the field. We would invite him and all others interested in serious reform to examine the voluminous research to the contrary,” Keshishian noted.

“It’s time to abandon bumpersticker and sound-bite solutions to the complex issues facing public education and to bring everyone together to support proven reforms. NJEA is committed to doing the hard work to improve struggling public schools, and we invite the governor to join us in the effort to bring about real, lasting, and meaningful reform.”

Best in the nation

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:58:53 -0500

High Technology High School, a math, science and technology high school in the Monmouth County Vocational School District, was recently named the best in the nation by U.S.News & World Report. Classroom Close-up, NJ featured the school last year in a segment about research done by two outstanding students.

The show's crew returned to the school recently to focus on the many elements that make this school one of the best in the nation, including dedicated teachers. The segment can be seen April 8 at 12:30 and 7:30 pm on NJTV.

One of the main factors that led to the high ranking is that students complete internships and research with major corporations to solve real world problems. "While I am proud of the top honors, I am most proud of the quality of students that graduate from the school, attend top colleges, and go on to impressive careers," stated the school's principal Daniel Simon.

NJEA president on the passing of Assembly Minority Leader DeCroce

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:30:21 -0500

NJEA President Barbara Keshishian released the following statement on the passing of Assembly Minority Leader Alex DeCroce:

“NJEA deeply regrets the passing of Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce. As a member of the Assembly since 1989, Alex long ago developed strong relationships with NJEA’s leaders and members at state, county, and local levels. He was particularly close with members of the Morris County Council of Education Associations. Always a gentleman and always accessible, he was always willing to take time to meet with educators from his district.

Assemblyman DeCroce was a forceful, passionate advocate for policies in which he believed. Over the years, we had many areas of agreement and a few areas where we did not see eye to eye. But in all cases, he was a man of integrity who fought the good fight and never let differences over political convictions tarnish his close personal friendships with the people he represented in the 26^th Legislative District and with those in our Association.

NJEA and our members will sorely miss Assembly Leader Alex DeCroce.”

Celebration of Teaching and Learning to be held in NYC this March

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:19:48 -0500

NJEA will once again be a major sponsor of the Celebration of Teaching & Learning presented by THIRTEEN and WLIW21. This premier professional development conference brings together the world’s best thinkers, practitioners, and more than 10,000 educators to share their passion for teaching and learning. This two-day experience for educators happens March 16-17 at the Hilton New York in New York City.

The celebration will bring experts and content from the areas of the arts, English language arts, global awareness, health and wellness, instructional technology, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), social studies, special education and whole school issues.

Throughout the two days, attendees will experience four distinct learning environments through six plenary sessions, over 40 featured speaker sessions, over 100 hands-on “In the Classroom” workshops, and two filled exhibitor halls featuring the latest in educational tools, interactive events and book signings.

For details on this year’s event, visit http://thirteencelebration.org.

NJEA will have a limited number of one-day tickets to this year’s celebration. Visit njea.org starting Feb. 8 to request a ticket. Tickets cannot be ordered by phone.

NJ-ALPHA offers China study tour

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:17:35 -0500

The “New Jersey Alliance for Learning and Preserving the History of WWII in Asia” (NJ-ALPHA) will sponsor several secondary school/college teachers/educators on a two-week immersion learning experience on the history of WWII in Asia July 6-21, 2012. The 2012 Tour is tentatively scheduled for Shanghai, Nanjing, Harbin, Seoul, and Hong Kong.

The China Study Tour includes discussion of the history of Sino-Japan relations, meeting with survivors of wartime atrocities, participation in briefing sessions and lectures by Chinese scholars, professors, and visits to museums and historical sites.

For teachers/educators, NJ-ALPHA will provide scholarships to pay for all the in-China and Korea expenses, totaling approximately $3,000 per participant. The participants will be responsible for their travel expenses from the U.S. to Shanghai, Harbin to Seoul, Seoul to Hong Kong, and Hong Kong back to the U.S. (plus miscellaneous expenses), with the expected total to be around $2,500. The application deadline is March 1, 2012. For more information and an application visit http://www.nj-alpha.org/study_tour.html.

Conference to explore strategies for a positive school climate

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:45:26 -0500

The NJ Alliance for Social, Emotional and Character Development (NJASECD) will hold its annual conference, Positive School Climate: The Antidote to Bullying, on March 14, 2012 at Rider College. The conference runs from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes key expert speakers on evidence-based strategies and solutions for bullying and the development of a positive school climate where children feel safe.

In addition, the 2012 New Jersey Schools of Character will be recognized at a ceremony at the conference. For more information and to register online visit www.njasecd.org.

Conference looks at great battles and how they shaped American history

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:40:15 -0500

A history institute for teachers, “Great Battles and How They Have Shaped American History,” will be held Saturday and Sunday, April 21-22, at the First Division Museum in Wheaton, IL.

The event is sponsored by the Foreign Policy Research Institute’s (FPRI) Wachman Center, the First Division Museum at Cantigny, a division of the McCormick Foundation.

Topics include:

Saratoga, 1777.
Plattsburgh, 1814.
Gettysburg, 1863.
Manila Bay, 1898.
Meuse-Argonne, 1918.
Midway, 1942.
Normandy, 1944.
Tet, 1968.

Social studies and history teachers, curriculum supervisors, and junior college faculty are invited to apply for participation.

Forty participants will be selected to receive:

Free room and board.
Assistance in designing curriculum and special projects based on the institute.
Stipends of $200 for well-developed lesson plans for posting on the FPRI website that effectively utilize the experience of the weekend conference, or documentation of inservice presentations based on the weekend.
Partial travel reimbursements (up to $250) for participants outside the vicinity of the conference center.
Subscription to Footnotes, FPRI's bulletin for high school teachers.
A certificate of participation in a program offering 12 hours of instruction.

In addition, for those interested, college credit is available for a small fee through our cooperating institution, Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

How to apply for the conference

To apply, email to history@fpri.org a resume and a short statement describing your current teaching or professional assignments, your reasons for wanting to attend, and how your students or school district will benefit from your participation. NOTE: At the time of application, you are asked to make a commitment either to prepare a curriculum unit based on the weekend or to do inservice activities based on the weekend.

The application deadline is Jan. 31.

For additional information and updates go to www.fpri.org/education/1204greatbattles/.

To learn more about FPRI, contact Director Alan H. Luxenberg at 215-732-3774 or lux@fpri.org and follow FPRI on Facebook.

California Casualty offers athletic grants

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:43:04 -0500

California Casualty has expanded its one-year-old Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant program. This year, $75,000 is available in grants to public high schools across the nation. During the 2010-11 school year, the program awarded $25,000 to ten high schools in Arizona, California, Colorado and Oregon.

Who can apply?

Employees of public high schools in most states (except Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York and Wisconsin), who hold current membership in the National Education Association (NEA) or other education associations listed in the grant guidelines.

The minimum grant award is $1,000. Applications should be completed and submitted by an active employee of the school by Feb. 15, 2012. Complete guidelines and an application form can be found at https://www.CalCasAthleticsGrant.com.

Award notifications will be made by April 30, 2012.

NJEA continues to monitor pilot teacher evaluation program

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:38:28 -0500

Ten school districts and 19 schools that are receiving School Improvement Grants (SIG) continue to implement the state’s proposed teacher evaluation program, and NJEA continues to monitor the pilot.

To date, the emphasis in these schools and districts has been on training administrators and teachers in the new observation protocols that measure teacher practice. Districts were required to choose one of four teacher evaluation models to pilot in their districts (see the October and November 2011 NJEA Reviews for more information). Administrators were to receive three days of training, with teachers receiving two days of training in the various models. Initially all training was to be completed by Nov. 30; now the N.J. Department of Education (NJDOE) is reporting that all training should be completed by the end of January 2012.

The Evaluation Pilot Advisory Committee (EPAC) is monitoring the impact of the pilot program and is to provide feedback to the NJDOE. NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Marie Blistan is a member of EPAC.

“We are less concerned about the date the training is completed than the quality and thoroughness of the training,” notes Blistan. “We want to make sure evaluators are properly trained to evaluate using the new models and that teachers understand how their performance will be measured before anyone is observed or evaluated using the new domains proposed by the models.”

In addition, NJEA is meeting regularly with representatives of the Department of Education to resolve concerns about the pilot that emerge from conversations with local association representatives and members.

“We anticipate that we will have differences of opinion as we move forward with the pilot, but believe that wherever possible, we should work together to resolve problems in the best interest of students and teachers in New Jersey,” states Blistan.

The results of the pilot evaluation system will ultimately be used by the NJDOE to propose new teacher evaluation regulations for all teachers in New Jersey. A $1.1 million grant was offered to encourage school districts to participate in the program, which advances the recommendations released by Gov. Chris Christie’s Task Force on Educator Effectiveness in March 2011. The stated goals of the new evaluation system are to make teacher evaluation criteria more uniform and to accurately assess teacher effectiveness so educators can get meaningful feedback in an open and collaborative setting.

The centerpiece of the program is to increase student achievement as measured by standardized test scores. The base evaluation formula proposed by the Educator Effectiveness Task Force directed that at least 50 percent of the evaluation framework be based on “identified measures of student achievement,” with the remainder based on “demonstrated practices of effective teachers and leaders.”

The state’s original plan was for the new evaluation system to be implemented statewide next school year. But many, including NJEA, are questioning this ambitious timeline.

“This is too important to rush,” believes Blistan. “Our members’ careers, the culture of our schools, and the learning environment we provide for our students will be significantly impacted by these new regulations. We need to take the time to design new evaluation procedures that are not only fair and transparent, but a system that promotes best practices, teacher collaboration, and optimum student outcomes.”

Along with the Evaluation Pilot Advisory Committee, the program will be evaluated by an independent evaluator. The state is in the final stages of completing the contract negotiations with the researcher chosen to evaluate the pilot.

NJEA is working with the local associations in pilot districts to provide the necessary support to assure that the local association and educators in these districts have input into the pilot study. The Association is also monitoring the impact of the program on proposals to change teacher evaluation regulations.

Governor appoints NJEA members to special task force

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:04:07 -0500

Gov. Chris Christie has appointed two NJEA members to the N.J. Special Education and Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Task Force. Vernon Township High School teacher and Athletic Trainers’ Society of New Jersey member Joanne Ploch and Howell Township special education teacher Linda Levine will serve on the 17-member body.

The task force was created in 2009 and was made permanent by a law signed by Gov. Jon Corzine in January 2010.The primary charge of the task force is to both develop best practices and processes for education professionals working with students with a traumatic brain injury and address the needs of students with a traumatic brain injury.

The body is tasked with additional responsibilities:

Studying and evaluating practices for recognizing and educating children with traumatic brain injuries of all types ranging from mild to severe.
Preparing students with traumatic brain injury for entry into college or the work force.
Examining how current statutes and regulations affect students.

Joanne Ploch has been an athletic trainer and health and physical education teacher at Vernon Township School District since 2004. She is also a former executive council member of the Athletic Trainers’ Society of N.J., and brings over 20 years of experience in the fields of athletic training, sports medicine, and education.

Linda Levine is a middle school special education teacher and a learning consultant. She has served on the Education Committee of the Brain Injury Association of N.J. for over 15 years. She became involved in this issue after her son suffered a brain injury and continues to advocate for brain injury awareness as a parent and teacher.

State Board to address achievement gap

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:01:58 -0500

The N.J. State Board of Education's Closing the Achievement Gap Task Force has held its initial meetings and plans to hold regional public hearings to gather input on how to best address the State's academic achievement gap.

The 10-member task force, which stems from the State Board's annual retreat in June, was created “to examine why many poor and minority students in New Jersey do not score as well on state standardized tests as their more-affluent and white counterparts.”

"It is the State Board of Education's mission to help provide every child in New Jersey with an excellent education regardless of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic group or sex," President Aponte said. "I am confident that the State Board's Closing the Achievement Gap Task Force will produce proven and practical methods that school districts across the state can use to help all students achieve at high levels."

The task force's charge is to provide the State Board and policymakers with recommendations for a statewide strategy to close the academic achievement gap by addressing proven correlatives of poor academic achievement. It will examine the themes of access; culture/climate; expectations; and strategies.

The task force members include:

James Boatwright, former director of academic support, The College of New Jersey.
Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago, director of the Center for Strategic Urban Community Leadership and board chair of the LEAP Academy University Charter School.
Richard E. Constable III, Esq., deputy commissioner, N.J. Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Robert L. Copeland, superintendent, Piscataway School District.
Silvia Correa-Abbato, assistant superintendent, Union City School District.
Dr. Stephen Jose Hanson, professor, Psychology Department, Rutgers.
Dr. Arnold G. Hyndman, professor of Cell Biology and Neuroscience and director of the Organizational Leadership Program of the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers. `
Carlos R. Moreno, director of School Reform and Innovation—New Jersey.
Dr. Michael Nettles, senior vice president and Edmund W. Gordon chair of Policy Evaluation and Research Center, Educational Testing Service.
Dr. Dorothy Strickland, member, N.J. State Board of Education and professor emerita, Rutgers.

Support for the task force is being provided by ETS, the Department of Education, and the Office of the Acting Secretary of Higher Education/Commission on Higher Education.

Getting kids connected is a challenge

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:21:04 -0500

A national study conducted by the nonprofit Connected Nation shows that millions of children lack broadband opportunities, creating a negative impact on future educational and economic opportunities for them, their families, and the U.S.

A white paper by the national nonprofit Connected Nation released recently reveals wide gaps in vital broadband opportunities for children, especially in low-income households.

Broadband plays a vital role in future educational and economic opportunity for American society, but Connected Nation’s 2011 surveys of over 27,000 residential consumers shows that 17 million US children do not have broadband at home – and that 7.6 million of these are in low-income households.

The study also reveals that:

Only 37% of low-income minority households with children have broadband at home, compared to 66% of all households

Only 46% of all low-income households with children have broadband at home

40% of low-income households do not own a computer, compared to only 9% of all other households

The study also examines the reasons for the adoption gap among the nation’s most vulnerable populations. The chief reason why low-income households with children do not adopt broadband is cost, with 43% of those households citing cost as the main reason they do not adopt, followed by a lack of digital skills at 14%.

For more information, read the full study.

About Connected Nation: Connected Nation is a leading technology organization committed to bringing affordable high-speed Internet and broadband-enabled resources to all Americans. Connected Nation effectively raises the awareness of the value of broadband and related technologies by developing coalitions of influencers and enablers for improving technology access, adoption and use. Connected Nation works with consumers, community leaders, states, technology providers and foundations, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to develop and implement technology expansion programs with core competencies centered on a mission to improve digital inclusion for people and places previously underserved or overlooked. www.connectednation.org

NJEA supports Urban Hope Act

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:34:29 -0500

NJEA today announced its support of the Urban Hope Act, sponsored by Sen. Donald Norcross and Asm. Angel Fuentes. NJEA president Barbara Keshishian issued this statement about the legislation:

“The Urban Hope Act is an innovative effort to improve educational outcomes for children in some of our most challenging educational settings. NJEA supports this legislation because it allows for innovation while providing meaningful public accountability. It is a creative expansion of public school choice that uses public funds to support public education.

“We appreciate the opportunity to work with the sponsors of this legislation. This bill ensures that employees in the proposed Renaissance schools will have all of the rights of other public school employees, which will help create a climate of innovation and creativity in the classroom.

“NJEA has long supported public school choice options that provide good educational opportunities and are accountable to taxpayers, from charter schools, to intradistrict school choice, to the conversion of high-performing private schools into public charter schools.

“NJEA’s support of this legislation is another good-faith effort by NJEA and its members to explore new ways of giving every child in New Jersey access to a great public school. The sponsors wisely made this a limited pilot so that everyone involved can focus on making these schools successful. We call on the public education community to join NJEA in working for the success of these Renaissance schools. Their success will once again demonstrate that New Jersey’s public schools work.”

NJEA member & author Lisa Funari Willever donates 400 books

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:08:25 -0500

Lisa Funari Willever, award-winning author of the Nicky Fifth series, has donated 400 copies of her books to the students of Wilson Elementary School in Hamilton, NJ. Willever met Wilson Elementary School second-grade teacher Kristin Spair at the NJEA Convention. Spair told Willever that she uses the books to motivate her students by promising to read from the Nicky Fifth books if they pack up quickly and quietly at the end of the day. She said that as a result, her students now have packing up down to two minutes each day and that they are excited about reading. The Wilson students will be permitted to add the Nicky Fifth books to their personal collections at home.

NJEA launches new “take action” page

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:32:34 -0500

NJEA has made learning about the issues easier and taking action effortless, with a new webpage that brings many pieces of the website to one convenient location. It’s titled simply, “Take Action,” and it’s accessible to members only under “Issues & Political Action.”

The page is designed for flexibility as issues develop and as priorities change. Here is a description of the page as it now appears.

Talk about the issues

With competing versions of education reform in the state legislature, you’ll find a primer on NJEA’s plan here. You’ll also find a conversation guide that helps you talk about the key education reform issues in NJEA’s plan: tenure, evaluation, school choice, accountability, mentoring, public school choice, early childhood education, parental involvement, and other issues.

Ten minute meeting

But getting educated on the issues is about more than a website. It’s about working together. That’s why this section includes the “Ten Minute Meeting” as a resource for local leaders.

Local association presidents and building reps will find the resources they need here to conduct meetings on education reform issues that are brief, to the point, and empower members to get involved.

Contact your legislator

When you click here, contact information for the governor and your representatives in the New Jersey Legislature will appear. In addition to the elected officials’ phone number and email address, you’ll find links to their Facebook and Twitter accounts if they have them.

Within the email link, you’ll find an editable sample letter. You can send the letter as is, or you can personalize it with your own take on the issues.

If you’d like to contact legislators from a legislative district in New Jersey other than your own, click on “Find Your Legislative District.”

Sign a petition

This takes you to www.njeducatorsforreform.org, where you’ll find a petition to “join the fight for education reform.”

Educators for Reform is a website established by NJEA to provide members and the general public with information and tools to understand and then lobby for smart education reform. Please visit the site, sign the petition, and be ready to take action. Encourage your friends and family members to visit www.njeducatorsforreform.org as well.

Science Fellowship application deadline fast approaching

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 14:18:41 -0500

The deadline to enter one of the nation’s most prestigious fellowships for new teachers is approaching. Completed applications for the 2012 Knowles Science Teaching Foundation Fellowships must be received by 5pm EST, Wednesday, January 11, 2012. Applications are posted online at www.kstf.org, along with the eligibility and selection criteria. Only online submissions will be considered.

Renewable for up to five years and valued at up to $150,000, the KSTF Teaching Fellowships are awarded to exceptional young men and women dedicated to teaching science and mathematics in United States high schools. Fellowship benefits encompass comprehensive financial resources including tuition assistance, monthly stipends, and teaching materials and leadership grants; extensive summer and academic year professional development; and regular meetings and online discussions that provide each Fellow with a strong peer support network.

KSTF designed its Teaching Fellowships to meet the needs of beginning teachers from the time they begin working on a teaching credential through the early years of their career. KSTF awarded its first four Teaching Fellowships in 2002. To date, there are 188 Teaching Fellows and alumni nationwide across 40 states. Highly accomplished, KSTF Fellows hail from top universities such as Stanford, Harvard, MIT, Princeton, University of Michigan and the University of California at Berkeley. Among the Teaching Fellows are individuals who are Nationally Board Certified, have been named Teacher of the Year, serve as department chairs, are the first to introduce AP courses at their schools, and lead workshops and conferences for other teachers.

About KSTF

The Knowles Science Teaching Foundation (KSTF) was established by Janet H. and C. Harry Knowles in 1999 to increase the number of high quality high school science and mathematics teachers and ultimately improve math and science education in the United States. The KSTF Teaching Fellowship, the Foundation’s signature program, awards exceptional young men and women with a five-year early-career fellowship, empowering them to become master teachers and leaders in education. For more information, visit www.kstf.org.

Conference to provide resources and strategies for students with autism

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:52:29 -0500

Educators are invited to discover the latest technology and evidence-based solutions for students with Autism at a conference offered by EAP Connections on Feb. 9-10 in Voorhees, NJ.

The conference is being held at the Mansion on Main Street and will provide interactive, innovative and practical technology-based solutions for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Participants will engage in activities to further expand their understanding of applications, Web 2.0 solutions, and general technology tools applicable to challenges in the areas of academic, functional, and social growth and development. The presentation will cover numerous technology solutions and a specific training device is not required by participants.

For more information and to register visit www.aepconnections.com or see this registration form.

Public Employees’ Sick Leave Bills

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:07:55 -0500

Currently, there are at least two bills that seek to curb the compensation public employees receive for their accumulated sick leave. S-2220 (Sarlo) was conditionally vetoed by Gov. Christie in December 2010. The governor wanted language that would:

Prohibit supplemental compensation for sick days that accumulate after the effective date of the act.
Require that any sick leave and vacation leave accrued prior to the effective date of the act be used before sick leave or vacation leave accrued after the effective date.
Establish a third level of discipline for violating the sick leave provision that would permit termination of the employee.
Prohibit all employees, not just those hired after the effective date of the bill, from using six or more consecutive days of accumulated sick leave without a written medical note. It also would extend this provision to any time during employment, not just the 12 months before retirement.
Require the suspension of payment for accumulated sick or vacation leave for an employee under indictment for a crime that involves or affects their office and the forfeiture of any supplemental compensation if the employee is convicted.

The most recent bill was introduced in November 2011 by Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt as a response to the governor. A-4345 would:

Cap current employees’ accumulated sick leave compensation to the current level.
Restrict future accumulated sick days above 60 to an aggregate of $7,500 which would then be paid out in monthly installments for the remainder of the employees’ life expectancy and apply those payments to the retiree’s share of the premium for post-retirement medical benefits.
Limit the carrying forward of vacation leave for one year only.
Impose limits on the use of sick leave on all employees in the 12 months prior to retirement.
Require the suspension of payment for accumulated sick or vacation leave for an employee under indictment for a crime that involves or affects their office and the forfeiture of any supplemental compensation if the employee is convicted.

NJEA is working to improve this legislation and to protect the collective bargaining rights of our members.

New Jersey routs DC on test scores

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 13:59:46 -0500

Test results from the 2011 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) show that New Jersey’s black and poor students dramatically out-perform their counterparts in the District of Columbia and the vast majority of other states.

"The wide disparity in scores raises serious questions about why Governor Christie's education reform front group - Better Education for Kids (B4K) - would join forces with former D.C. schools chancellor Michelle Rhee to lead the reform effort in New Jersey,” said NJEA President Barbara Keshishian.

"We still have a lot of work to do for poor and minority students," Keshishian said, "but the answer doesn't come from the District of Columbia. Looking at their NAEP scores, why would we take advice from Michelle Rhee?"

Christie and the state Department of Education are focusing on the so-called "achievement gap" between black and white students, and between poor and wealthier students, as the rationale for their reforms - none of which are supported by reliable research.

A story launched by NJEA on Dec. 1 showed that while New Jersey's "achievement gap" remains, both black and white students' scores are rising rapidly, and are near the top in the nation in their respective subgroups. But NAEP scores for black students and for students receiving free and reduced-price lunches (indicating poverty) show that New Jersey is doing a better job educating both groups of students than most states, and far outperforms the District of Columbia.

Not only are DC scores for black and poor students among the lowest in the nation, said Keshishian, but the district was investigated for alleged test score cheating under Rhee's watch.

A chart summarizing 2011 NAEP scores shows that New Jersey's black and poor students dramatically outscore their D.C. counterparts in both reading and math, at both the 4^th and 8^th grade levels.

In addition, when it comes to the percentage of black and poor students scoring at or above proficient - the equivalent of an "A" grade - D.C. students perform at or near the lowest in the nation, while New Jersey students perform consistently above average, and in some cases near the top.

Keshishian noted a recent New York Times op-ed showing the inherent dishonesty in claiming to address the achievement gap without acknowledging and dealing with the effects of poverty.

"We don't need more advice from a celebrity education reformer like Michelle Rhee, whose reputation far outshines her results," Keshishian said. "We need comprehensive, research-based reforms that tackle both the cause of the achievement gap - poverty in America - and its effect on children's ability to learn."

Tips for Choosing the Right Gift for an Autistic Child

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:06:31 -0500

By Linda Mealia, President of the Morris Union Jointure Commission Education Association

As educators of children with autism, we believe every child is a gift. Although most people in New Jersey have a friend or family member who is parenting a child with autism, it can be difficult for them to choose an appropriate gift for the holidays, a birthday, or a religious celebration.

The good news is that children with autism are just like any other children in that they need – and love – to play. So long as the gift is age-appropriate and safe, it is very difficult to make a wrong choice. However, there are some games that are fun and help children with autism practice their skills.

Board Games

Social interaction skills such as sharing, taking turns, communication, and imitation can be reinforced for children from preschool through their teens with a board game. You don’t have to buy them at a specialty store – anything from Chutes and Ladders to Apples to Apples to Pictionary can work. If it’s a favorite in your house, it will probably be a favorite in theirs.

Musical Toys

Sensory issues are common among children with autism and playtime can be a great opportunity to address them in a fun way. Combining the stimulation of music and lights through a toy can be a low-stress way of getting an autistic child accustomed to different stimuli. For younger children, this can be a toy that plays music, like a light-up piano, guitar, or drum. Older children with autism may enjoy singing along with a karaoke machine.

Puzzles

Children with autism often enjoy organizing items into different categories. Age-appropriate puzzles can provide hours of enjoyment as well as help them hone fine motor skills. When the puzzle is completed, you can either pull it apart and put it away or frame it as a fun keepsake.

Art Kits and Supplies

Art kits are a great gift for autistic children because not only does art help children develop fine motor skills, but it also gives children a creative, stress-free outlet. Depending on the age of the child you can choose from finger paints to crayons to clay. The added bonus is that you might walk away from the gift exchange with some really cool art for your refrigerator door!

Although the gift you choose to give is meaningful, the best present anyone can give children with autism and their parents is time together. After you have carefully considered and purchased a gift, take time to play with the child. Not only will spending time together allow you to see the child enjoying the present, but it will also give you greater insight into the kinds of things they enjoy. In addition, it will show their parent how much their child means to you.

The Morris Union Jointure Commission Education Association represents 140 teachers, therapists, and nurses for 360 autistic students ranging in age from three to 21 years old. Students come from 29 sending districts across five New Jersey counties, Morris, Essex, Union, Somerset, and Hunterdon.

Reading: A Gift that Lasts a Lifetime

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:05:22 -0500

By NJEA President Barbara Keshishian and NJ Association of School Librarians President Pat Massey

The holiday season is a wonderful time to share gifts with children that not only come from the heart, but also from a shared interest. Books have the power to connect people and inspire a lifelong love of literature. There are so many titles to choose from, it can be difficult to offer a short list but here are some suggested titles and authors to help you share a love of reading with the children in your life. Although we have provided an age range, it is just a suggestion.

Books for all ages:

Auntie Claus by Elise Primavera
The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney
My Weird School series by Dan Gutman
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Seven Spools of Thread: a Kwanzaa Story by Angela Medearis
The Trees of the Dancing Goats by Patricia Polacco

Some other authors who are popular with children in this age group are: Sharon Draper, Wendy Mass, Jon Scieszka, Dr. Seuss, Shel Silverstein, and Mo Willems.

Children (Ages 5-12):

The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids series by Debby Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
Amber Brown by Paula Danziger
Apple Tree Christmas by Trinka Hakes Noble
Christmas Tapestry by Patricia Polacco
A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever by Marla Frazee
Franny K. Stein, Mad Scientist by Jim Benton
Freight Train by Donald Crews
Horrible Harry by Suzy Kline
The House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson
How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night? by Jane Yolen
Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park
Piggie Pie by Margie Palatini
Reindeer Crunch and Other Christmas Recipes by Kristi Johnson
Savvy by Ingrid Law
Welcome Comfort by Patricia Polacco
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Ziggy series by Sharon Draper
Sports series by Mark Stewart

Young Adults (12-18):

Bluford High series (various authors)
Crank by Ellen Hopkins
Gift of the Magi by O.Henry
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Identical by Ellen Hopkins
Twilight series by Stefenie Meyer

One way to make your gift even more meaningful – and treasured for years to come – is to give your own beloved copy of a favorite book such as Little Women, Treasure Island, or Curious George to a child.

To really make the most out of the gift of reading, take time to read together every day. Not only will you be able to share well-known classics, but you also might discover a new favorite to add to your personal library.

Finally, get to know the reading experts in your child’s life. Teachers, school library media specialists, and public librarians are happy to work with you to instill in your child a love of reading – and that’s a gift that lasts lifetime.

Barbara Keshishian is the president of the New Jersey Education Association, which represents more than 195,000 public school library media specialists, teachers, and educational support professionals in New Jersey’s public schools.

Pat Massey is the president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, which advocates high standards for librarianship and library media programs in the public, private and parochial schools in New Jersey to ensure that students and staff become effective users of information.

Vernon Township member wins Library Assistant Award

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:39:41 -0500

Vitone poses for a photo op with David Eisenberg, Media Specialist at Glen Meadow Middle School. Eisenberg nominated her for the award.

Jane Vitone, library assistant in Vernon Township, has been selected as the 2011 School Library Assistant of the Year for the state of New Jersey. This highly competitive award, bestowed by the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, is the most prestigious statewide recognition for school library assistants in the nation.

Vitone has distinguished herself among her peers through her longstanding exemplary work in Vernon Township Public Schools' libraries. Jane's knowledge of and commitment to library service, reference, children's and young adult literature, educational technology, and her students' needs are just a few of the qualities that make her deserving of this recognition.

For more information about the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, visit njasl.org.

Christie’s “straw man” for reform

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:23:28 -0500

The Christie administration’s primary rationale for education reform – the so-called “achievement gap” between white and black students in the state’s urban districts – is “a classic straw man,” NJEA President Barbara Keshishian said today.

“The administration has acknowledged the documented successes of the vast majority of New Jersey’s public schools, because the evidence of our success is irrefutable," Keshishian said. "That’s why the governor is trying to use some of our lower-performing urban districts to make the case for reform.

“There’s only one problem with that strategy,” Keshishian said. “It’s based on a deliberate misuse of the data. Using the ‘achievement gap’ as a basis for a host of unproven reforms is a classic straw man.”

Just last Nov. 11, acting Commissioner of Education Christopher Cerf cited the state’s “shameful, shameful achievement gap” in remarks to educators at the NJEA Convention.

“Here’s the truth: New Jersey has an achievement gap between white and black students, but it is narrowing,” Keshishian said. “And the real story is that both groups out-perform the vast majority of their counterparts across America.”

Results from the 2011 4^th grade math and reading scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) – the benchmark for state comparisons – showed that:

> New Jersey’s white fourth-graders scored third in both math and reading, when ranked against other states’ white students.

> New Jersey’s black fourth-graders scored fifth in math and second in reading, when ranked against other states’ black students.

That point was driven home in a Nov. 30 column by Dr. Howard Wainer, on NJSpotlight.com. Wainer, a research scientist with strong experience in education issues, used the 2011 NAEP 4^th grade math scores to explain the issue.

Wainer acknowledged an achievement gap in 2011 (whites outscored blacks 256 to 231, a gap of 25 points). But in 1992 (the first year 4^th grade scores were available), whites outscored blacks by 38 points (236 to 198). As Wainer notes, New Jersey’s black students made steep gains over that time period (their scores rose from 198 to 231, a gain of 17 percent), a much steeper rate of improvement than white students (whose average score rose from 236 to 256, or 8.5%).

“What the governor isn’t telling the public is that New Jersey is a national leader in closing the achievement gap,” said Keshishian. “That obviously doesn’t serve his agenda.”

Keshishian cited a 2010 article by noted education researcher Linda Darling-Hammond in which she singled out New Jersey for closing the achievement gap:

New Jersey has succeeded because of its systematic approach to education improvement. Across the state, it invested in quality preschool. It made real investments in quality teacher pedagogy…. The results speak for themselves. Today, New Jersey, a state where 45 percent of students are of color, ranks first in the nation in writing performance on NAEP and among the top five states in every other subject area – competing neck-and-neck with states that have many fewer low-income students of color. It has cut its achievement gap in half over the last decade, and its African American and Hispanic students outscore the average student in California.

“If the Christie administration genuinely cared about the achievement gap, it wouldn’t have retreated from the proven reforms that Darling-Hammond cites,” said Keshishian, using Christie’s cutting of funding for expanded preschool as one example.

Research indicates that while there is an achievement gap between white and black students, the most reliable predictor of test score results is family income.

“There is a clear correlation between wealth and test scores,” Keshishian said, “and it’s not unique to New Jersey. What is unique about New Jersey is the success we’ve had in closing the gap, thanks to the reforms we’ve instituted in our most economically challenged districts.

“Ironically, as the wealth gap in America widens every day, our achievement gap is narrowing,” Keshishian said. “We must be doing a lot of things right, and the goal is to do even more, so that all students can reach their potential.”

Parents encouraged to apply for NJ’s kid-friendly programs

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:22:06 -0500

Parents with low and moderate incomes can sign-up their children in several kid-focused programs offered through three state departments. The programs, administered by the Departments of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Agriculture (NJDA) and Human Services (DHS) include, NJ FamilyCare, NJ SNAP, WIC, Vaccines for Children and Free or Reduced School Lunch. All of the programs are partially or fully federally funded and have comparable qualifying criteria.

Women, Infants and Children Program

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program provides supplemental nutritious foods to infants and children up to the age of five. For children older than age five in eligible families, there is the N.J. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (NJ SNAP), which provides monthly electronic benefits on an ATM-like card for unprepared foods and grocery purchases.

School Lunch Program

The School Lunch Program provides a nutritious, well-balanced lunch at no cost for children in families earning less than $29,055 annually for a family of four or at a reduced cost for children in families with incomes below $41,348 annually for a family of four. Eligible families need to fill out the application for free or reduced price meals so their children are included in the program and students whose families already qualify for NJ SNAP of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) will receive free meals.

Children qualified for WIC and the Free or Reduced Lunch program likely meet the criteria for NJ SNAP.

Vaccines for Children

If families are uninsured or underinsured, the Vaccines for Children program is available to them.

NJ FamilyCare Insurance

If your child is uninsured, apply today for NJ FamilyCare. Children in families with incomes under $78,225 per year for a family of four are eligible. The plan includes primary care, specialists, hospitalization, prescription and dental benefits. Even if your income is higher, your child may still qualify for low-cost health insurance through NJ FamilyCare Advantage.

Find out more about these programs

Hear ye! NJ History & Social Studies teachers

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:13:22 -0500

As part of Trenton's Patriots' Week celebration of Trenton's role in the American Revolution, one public school teacher will win the honor of delivering a 45-minute public lecture on "The American Revolution 101" to be held on Dec. 27 at the Masonic Temple in Trenton. Patriots Week takes place Dec. 26-31 2011.

The "Patriots' Podium" competition, co-sponsored by the Trenton Downtown Association and New Jersey Education Association, invites any public high school and middle school teachers employed in New Jersey to submit video applications.

Interested teachers should upload their video applications, not to exceed five minutes in length, at PatriotsWeek.com. Applicants can be creative in how they present their video, but the segment must propose an idea for the focus of the Patriots' Podium lecture, highlight the applicant's credentials, and explain how taking the 2011 Patriots' Podium would be meaningful to the applicant. In addition, video applications should be accompanied by one brief letter of reference from a school administrator, school parent, or recent student. All application materials must be received online by Dec. 14, 2011.

For more information on Patriots' Podium please visit PatriotsWeek.com or call 609-777-1770 or e-mail PatriotsWeek@Trenton-Downtown.com.

Helping military families pays off

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:35:04 -0500

As the wife of a Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer, NJEA member and third-grade teacher Terry Dougherty knows first-hand how stressful military life can be on parents and children. During her husband’s 30-year career, her family faced several moves which meant new schools, new friends, and new expectations. On Nov. 8, Dougherty won the Great American Teach off and a $10,000 grant for her efforts to help children of military families. She was honored in a surprise ceremony during a Veterans’ Day assembly at Roland Rogers Elementary School in Galloway Township.

Three years ago, Dougherty started a program called Military Child Tutoring: They Are Heroes, Too, with the support of the Rotary Club of Absecon-Galloway. The program provides military children with one-on-one instruction in areas that need remediation due to their transient lifestyle.

“Curricula are not always the same as you move from state to state, so military children have difficulties that full-time residents don’t face simply because of these changes. They might be on the same level, but the work is different,” Dougherty explained. Dougherty tutors the students before and after school and in the summer. She is currently working with 12 children including a few who live in neighboring school districts. She also works closely with the military parents and helps them understand how they can best advocate for their children.

Dougherty is partnering with Richard Stockton College of New Jersey to expand the program using college students as tutors. She has been invited to deliver the keynote address at the College’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Program.

The Great American Teach Off is a national program which recognizes innovative teachers. The Great American Teach Off, sponsored by GOOD and the University of Phoenix, featured ten exceptional teachers who were highlighted in videos on the website http://www.good.is/great-american-teach-off. Each week, visitors to the website could vote for their favorite teachers and the two least vote-getters were eliminated. This month, The Great American Teach Off launches a new campaign to spotlight high school teachers.

In addition to the grant and award, Dougherty was recognized for her work by the group Employer Support for the Guard and Reserves with a Seven Seals Award which is the highest honor bestowed on a civilian.

NJEA to legislators: “Take the Teacher for a Day Challenge”

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:07:36 -0500

Are your legislators up for the challenge?

All 120 members of the Legislature were invited to walk a mile in our educators’ shoes and become teachers for a day. Those who accept the challenge will write lesson plans, teach classes, and perform all general duties, just as teachers do every day.

The Teacher for a Day Challenge event aims to offer legislators a first-hand look at what it is like to be a public school educator before casting any votes on the educational reform issues. By allowing legislators to share in our experiences, NJEA and its members can engage them in positive and productive conversations about a variety of topics, including tenure, seniority and merit pay.

Check back for a complete list of legislators who have accepted the challenge and the schools at which they will work. You will soon be able to follow the action on NJEA’s Twitter account and view photos from several Teacher for a Day challenge events on the “NJEATeacher4aDay” Facebook page.

Be a champion for safe teen driving

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 13:45:56 -0500

The Brain Injury Association of New Jersey (BIANJ) is once again hosting its “U Got Brains Champion Schools Program” – a contest to challenge New Jersey high school students and faculty to create unique projects aimed at educating teens about the importance of safe driving.

Here's how it works:

Develop an idea in your school for a project related to teen driving safety.
Submit your project name, a 500 word summary of the proposed project, and a list of strategies and events to be implemented along with it.
If your school’s project is selected, you will receive a $1,000 stipend to implement it.
Selected schools will have several months to implement their projects and compete against other schools to win the ultimate prize: a driving simulator for your school!

Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of teen injuries and death.
This is a great opportunity to engage your students in an educational, fun and interactive competition, while addressing an important safety issue.

Remember, creativity is a must! BIANJ is looking for unique campaign ideas that will draw attention and make an impact on new drivers.

To learn more, apply or view last year’s winners, visit www.ugotbrains.com. Application deadline is Nov. 30.

Score your tickets for the NY Liberty's 7th annual Education Day game

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 13:14:48 -0500

Join the NY Liberty professional women's basketball team for its 7th annual Education Day game on May 14 at 10:30 a.m.

In addition to great lower-level seats at a discount, ticket holders will enjoy an educational speaker, unique on-court experiences, free thunderstix for your whole group, and more!

For more information or to book your seats today email matt.cohen@msg.com or call 212-631-5738.

Download flier

SmileMakers discount offer

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:31:30 -0500

SmileMakers has a great special offer that runs through December 31, 2011. SmileMaker's huge inventory includes decor, gift items and other products appropriate for the holidays. Use the special promotional code NEABTS when ordering and save up to 50% off plus get Free Shipping (no minimum). Visit SmileMakers.com or call 1-888-800-SMILE to order. Read More