I know, I know, you can go geocaching all year long.  I have to admit I am a fair weather geocaching kind of gal.  Last year was our first experience with geocaching and I quickly added it to our routine nature walks.  It added an extra layer of learning and adventure that especially appealed to my son who was beyond the age of sitting on a large rock and drawing the trees.  However, my little girls love the adventure also.  I was especially surprised how my 8 year old enjoyed learning navigation.  Since, I get lost going around the block, … Continue reading →

Parents, educators and community leaders have been expressing concern for many years about the high rate of attrition among experienced, high quality teachers from America’s public schools. A recent Rand Corporation study further raises concern, noting that teachers with higher measured ability were more likely to leave their teaching positions. As the less-experienced, less-able teachers remain in the classroom the educational system experiences a significant negative impact. The question of how to retain experienced high-performing teachers in the nation’s classrooms has been occupying professionals and lay leaders for decades. Suggestions include introducing teacher mentoring programs, creating better teacher training programs, … Continue reading →