Seeking advice on Fairfax County Public High Schools

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:
I'm think it's a bored high school kid who got a bad grade (or two) and now is mad at all FCPS teachers. The writing style strikes me as 11th or 12th grade level.

No the problem is FCPS teachers are not teaching at a high school level. They fail to include multimedia in their lessons. The taxpayers have paid millions for LCD projectors because Central Administration and best practices demands that lessons include multiple sensory stimulation. This is not happening! FCPS students are being denied the quality educations in which they deserve and for which we have paid.

Education in FCPS is homogenized and consistently mushy throughout the system. It seems that the one dimensional group learning model currently being used almost exclusively in Fairfax is being supported by Central Administration and the Area Superintendants.

Group learning is crushing any and all passion teachers may have for the subjects they teach. FCPS teachers have fallen I to a terrible rut where they are bogged down using a single method of teaching and where their students are bored to tears.

Teachers, please do yourselves and your students a favor and come to school excited to teach tomorrow. Talk to your students - COMMUNICATE! Teach everything you know! Share stories, smile, laugh, draw correlations between important discoveries in math, science, literature, social studies, etc. with your students. Tell them you love teaching your subject because it's the most important discipline in the world. Believe in yourselves and your students will believe learning the subjects you teach are important.

BRING LIFE TO YOUR CLASSROOMS!!!

[Anonymous]

Yep, sounds like a kid in high school.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
I'm think it's a bored high school kid who got a bad grade (or two) and now is mad at all FCPS teachers. The writing style strikes me as 11th or 12th grade level.

No the problem is FCPS teachers are not teaching at a high school level. They fail to include multimedia in their lessons. The taxpayers have paid millions for LCD projectors because Central Administration and best practices demands that lessons include multiple sensory stimulation. This is not happening! FCPS students are being denied the quality educations in which they deserve and for which we have paid.

Education in FCPS is homogenized and consistently mushy throughout the system. It seems that the one dimensional group learning model currently being used almost exclusively in Fairfax is being supported by Central Administration and the Area Superintendants.

Group learning is crushing any and all passion teachers may have for the subjects they teach. FCPS teachers have fallen I to a terrible rut where they are bogged down using a single method of teaching and where their students are bored to tears.

Teachers, please do yourselves and your students a favor and come to school excited to teach tomorrow. Talk to your students - COMMUNICATE! Teach everything you know! Share stories, smile, laugh, draw correlations between important discoveries in math, science, literature, social studies, etc. with your students. Tell them you love teaching your subject because it's the most important discipline in the world. Believe in yourselves and your students will believe learning the subjects you teach are important.

BRING LIFE TO YOUR CLASSROOMS!!!

You do realize if they all use LCD projectors all the time to present your beloved Power Points, they will also be in a rut using a single method?

And once again, this site isn't DCUT it is DCUM.

[Anonymous]

Madison HS in Vienna is small and has a great reputation.

As for the hijacked topic of teachers in FCPS. I am a teacher. I spend hours, HOURS, identifying the objectives of the class and then creating lessons that meet these objectives. I hand out a copy of the objectives long with the tentative schedule. Most teachers do NOT do this. I find that, although, it is a lot of work, once done, it makes the class run much more smoothly and keeps all on target. If someone misses a class, she/he knows exactly what was covered/missed. Also, I upload all handouts onto Blackoard (or a Blackboard-like system). I find that most teachers DO NOT do this, either.

FWIW: I do not teach in FCPS - did have 3 interviews at 3 different HS's though. Personally, I think that like most places I have worked, I tend to raise the bar of 'status quo' and the systems doesn't appreciate that, nor do the fellow teachers.

I am passionate about what I teach. Where I currently teach, my method is much appreciated especially since I share what I do for others to use. Another negative...most teachers safeguard their lesson plans and never share.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:
Yep, sounds like a kid in high school.

Yeah, I gave him too much credit before. After reading more of his stuff, I agree with you.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Madison HS in Vienna is small and has a great reputation.

As for the hijacked topic of teachers in FCPS. I am a teacher. I spend hours, HOURS, identifying the objectives of the class and then creating lessons that meet these objectives. I hand out a copy of the objectives long with the tentative schedule. Most teachers do NOT do this. I find that, although, it is a lot of work, once done, it makes the class run much more smoothly and keeps all on target. If someone misses a class, she/he knows exactly what was covered/missed. Also, I upload all handouts onto Blackoard (or a Blackboard-like system). I find that most teachers DO NOT do this, either.

FWIW: I do not teach in FCPS - did have 3 interviews at 3 different HS's though. Personally, I think that like most places I have worked, I tend to raise the bar of 'status quo' and the systems doesn't appreciate that, nor do the fellow teachers.

I am passionate about what I teach. Where I currently teach, my method is much appreciated especially since I share what I do for others to use. Another negative...most teachers safeguard their lesson plans and never share.

I'm curious, although you clearly work hard and you are well organized, what makes you an effective teacher? Are your classes fun, interesting, dynamic, and challenging? Do you tap into preexisting knowledge? Do you link your content with recent discoveries and events. Do you use your LCD projectors to graphically display and support your lessons for students who are visual learners? It's great that you are posting your assignments online, but do you genuinely work hard to communicate with your students during every class period?

Do you personally possess a full mastery of the subjects you are teaching? Can you lecture and can you answer difficult questions posed to you from thoughtful analytical students? Do you demonstrate your dedication to your profession and your students by presenting everything you have to offer and by leaving your blood, sweat, and tears in the classroom. Are you a true professional?

Teachers need to use everything at their disposal to engage with their students. It's strange that so many FCPS teachers actually have very poor communication skills. One would think that an individual who is unable to effectively speak in from of a group of students would not enter the field of education.

It is apparent that you work hard and you are well organized, but what skill in particular do you possess and demonstrate daily that makes you an excellent teacher?

[Anonymous]

Pick the school that sent the most kids to the International Science Fair finals. TJ is first, but I would take a close look at the second and third school.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Madison HS in Vienna is small and has a great reputation.

As for the hijacked topic of teachers in FCPS. I am a teacher. I spend hours, HOURS, identifying the objectives of the class and then creating lessons that meet these objectives. I hand out a copy of the objectives long with the tentative schedule. Most teachers do NOT do this. I find that, although, it is a lot of work, once done, it makes the class run much more smoothly and keeps all on target. If someone misses a class, she/he knows exactly what was covered/missed. Also, I upload all handouts onto Blackoard (or a Blackboard-like system). I find that most teachers DO NOT do this, either.

FWIW: I do not teach in FCPS - did have 3 interviews at 3 different HS's though. Personally, I think that like most places I have worked, I tend to raise the bar of 'status quo' and the systems doesn't appreciate that, nor do the fellow teachers.

I am passionate about what I teach. Where I currently teach, my method is much appreciated especially since I share what I do for others to use. Another negative...most teachers safeguard their lesson plans and never share.

What are you doing for those who learn differently in your classrooms? Do you differentiate so as to coax out a exemplary performance from the individual? As I am sure you are aware, there are a variety of resources available to you, nee, to all of the county teachers if they would only look into it.

What a stellar example this county could set on a national level, setting the benchmarks for a different, experiential education! And not only for the student body. If we were to incentivize continuing education for the educators it would enhance the learning environment and benefit all within the system.

And then there would be a renewal in learning, enthusiastic teachers nurturing enthusiastic students, students who would then be the next generation of rationalizing, competent leaders.

I find it odd and saddening that the parents are content to allow their children to every day enter a world of mediocrity rather that demand a superior experience. These students deserve all the opportunities that can be provided.

Of course as a teacher you have made a decision to set an enviably high bar for your colleagues and you are to be commended.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Madison HS in Vienna is small and has a great reputation.

As for the hijacked topic of teachers in FCPS. I am a teacher. I spend hours, HOURS, identifying the objectives of the class and then creating lessons that meet these objectives. I hand out a copy of the objectives long with the tentative schedule. Most teachers do NOT do this. I find that, although, it is a lot of work, once done, it makes the class run much more smoothly and keeps all on target. If someone misses a class, she/he knows exactly what was covered/missed. Also, I upload all handouts onto Blackoard (or a Blackboard-like system). I find that most teachers DO NOT do this, either.

FWIW: I do not teach in FCPS - did have 3 interviews at 3 different HS's though. Personally, I think that like most places I have worked, I tend to raise the bar of 'status quo' and the systems doesn't appreciate that, nor do the fellow teachers.

I am passionate about what I teach. Where I currently teach, my method is much appreciated especially since I share what I do for others to use. Another negative...most teachers safeguard their lesson plans and never share.

Kudos to you for taking a leap of faith in the abilities of your students. You recognize that there are young brilliant minds ready and begging for formation from those who understand them. Do not insult them with worksheets, with worn syllabi, with uninspired teaching plans.

You mentioned identifying objectives and I think this is a point that begs for further discussion and elaboration. By setting goals for yourself, your classroom, and your students you are creating a place for them to strive to achieve. These are the paths we want to create for the students.

Unfortunately, there are too many FCPS staff that would let children languish in uncreative work environments where they are taught not to think logically for themselves but to satisfy some shallow objectives that do nothing but save time and work for those in charge.

I imagine your students daily are able to share something wonderful they have learned from your skillful instruction.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Madison HS in Vienna is small and has a great reputation.

As for the hijacked topic of teachers in FCPS. I am a teacher. I spend hours, HOURS, identifying the objectives of the class and then creating lessons that meet these objectives. I hand out a copy of the objectives long with the tentative schedule. Most teachers do NOT do this. I find that, although, it is a lot of work, once done, it makes the class run much more smoothly and keeps all on target. If someone misses a class, she/he knows exactly what was covered/missed. Also, I upload all handouts onto Blackoard (or a Blackboard-like system). I find that most teachers DO NOT do this, either.

FWIW: I do not teach in FCPS - did have 3 interviews at 3 different HS's though. Personally, I think that like most places I have worked, I tend to raise the bar of 'status quo' and the systems doesn't appreciate that, nor do the fellow teachers.

I am passionate about what I teach. Where I currently teach, my method is much appreciated especially since I share what I do for others to use. Another negative...most teachers safeguard their lesson plans and never share.

I'm curious, although you clearly work hard and you are well organized, what makes you an effective teacher? Are your classes fun, interesting, dynamic, and challenging? Do you tap into preexisting knowledge? Do you link your content with recent discoveries and events. Do you use your LCD projectors to graphically display and support your lessons for students who are visual learners? It's great that you are posting your assignments online, but do you genuinely work hard to communicate with your students during every class period?

Do you personally possess a full mastery of the subjects you are teaching? Can you lecture and can you answer difficult questions posed to you from thoughtful analytical students? Do you demonstrate your dedication to your profession and your students by presenting everything you have to offer and by leaving your blood, sweat, and tears in the classroom. Are you a true professional?

Teachers need to use everything at their disposal to engage with their students. It's strange that so many FCPS teachers actually have very poor communication skills. One would think that an individual who is unable to effectively speak in from of a group of students would not enter the field of education.

It is apparent that you work hard and you are well organized, but what skill in particular do you possess and demonstrate daily that makes you an excellent teacher?

I teach English. Folks generally learn tactically (touch - so a book), visually (power point or videos) or via audio (listening to CDs). My classes are very fun and dynamic. I have a very open policy with my students - if they prefer that I change the lessons or add a little more, they know that they can let me know. I take their feedback seriously, and often add their suggestions into my plans. I am an expert in my field and share my love for such through my teaching. I believe in raising the bar for my students. I often teach them up a level - why not? If they can master the basics, and the do, then I give more.

If I don't know an answer, I tell them I will research and get back to them - which I always do! What makes me an excellent teacher? Well...not the student reviews - not all students are successful, and those are the ones most likely to complete my review. Typical reaction - think of the unhappy consumer - they are the ones that always post. The happy consumer moves on, happy. So, what makes me excellent? Results. My students, bar none, are always the most prepared for advancement, the ones most ready to take on a challenge (beyond English), the ones who years later (most often my negative, struggling students) that find me online or see me out and about and thank me for all that I did. I do more than teach - I believe in my students and know that the lessons I teach are more than English, so much of what I teach is about life - responsibility, believing in others and yourself, and how hard work is the catalyst to success in life (not measured by money, but my inner peace).

I hope that you find a great teacher in your lifetime. One that will inspire you and believe in you.

Peace

[Anonymous]

OK, 14:05 and 14:16 were me having some fun. Sorry for being a jerk and hijacking the thread besides.

Carry on.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OK, 14:05 and 14:16 were me having some fun. Sorry for being a jerk and hijacking the thread besides.

Carry on.

Meant 14:05 and 14:12.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Madison HS in Vienna is small and has a great reputation.

As for the hijacked topic of teachers in FCPS. I am a teacher. I spend hours, HOURS, identifying the objectives of the class and then creating lessons that meet these objectives. I hand out a copy of the objectives long with the tentative schedule. Most teachers do NOT do this. I find that, although, it is a lot of work, once done, it makes the class run much more smoothly and keeps all on target. If someone misses a class, she/he knows exactly what was covered/missed. Also, I upload all handouts onto Blackoard (or a Blackboard-like system). I find that most teachers DO NOT do this, either.

FWIW: I do not teach in FCPS - did have 3 interviews at 3 different HS's though. Personally, I think that like most places I have worked, I tend to raise the bar of 'status quo' and the systems doesn't appreciate that, nor do the fellow teachers.

I am passionate about what I teach. Where I currently teach, my method is much appreciated especially since I share what I do for others to use. Another negative...most teachers safeguard their lesson plans and never share.

I'm curious, although you clearly work hard and you are well organized, what makes you an effective teacher? Are your classes fun, interesting, dynamic, and challenging? Do you tap into preexisting knowledge? Do you link your content with recent discoveries and events. Do you use your LCD projectors to graphically display and support your lessons for students who are visual learners? It's great that you are posting your assignments online, but do you genuinely work hard to communicate with your students during every class period?

Do you personally possess a full mastery of the subjects you are teaching? Can you lecture and can you answer difficult questions posed to you from thoughtful analytical students? Do you demonstrate your dedication to your profession and your students by presenting everything you have to offer and by leaving your blood, sweat, and tears in the classroom. Are you a true professional?

Teachers need to use everything at their disposal to engage with their students. It's strange that so many FCPS teachers actually have very poor communication skills. One would think that an individual who is unable to effectively speak in from of a group of students would not enter the field of education.

It is apparent that you work hard and you are well organized, but what skill in particular do you possess and demonstrate daily that makes you an excellent teacher?

I teach English. Folks generally learn tactically (touch - so a book), visually (power point or videos) or via audio (listening to CDs). My classes are very fun and dynamic. I have a very open policy with my students - if they prefer that I change the lessons or add a little more, they know that they can let me know. I take their feedback seriously, and often add their suggestions into my plans. I am an expert in my field and share my love for such through my teaching. I believe in raising the bar for my students. I often teach them up a level - why not? If they can master the basics, and the do, then I give more.

If I don't know an answer, I tell them I will research and get back to them - which I always do! What makes me an excellent teacher? Well...not the student reviews - not all students are successful, and those are the ones most likely to complete my review. Typical reaction - think of the unhappy consumer - they are the ones that always post. The happy consumer moves on, happy. So, what makes me excellent? Results. My students, bar none, are always the most prepared for advancement, the ones most ready to take on a challenge (beyond English), the ones who years later (most often my negative, struggling students) that find me online or see me out and about and thank me for all that I did. I do more than teach - I believe in my students and know that the lessons I teach are more than English, so much of what I teach is about life - responsibility, believing in others and yourself, and how hard work is the catalyst to success in life (not measured by money, but my inner peace).

I hope that you find a great teacher in your lifetime. One that will inspire you and believe in you.

Peace

Well, I asked and you certainly told me good I'm beyond learning, but I wish my children had teachers like you!

[Anonymous]

You'd be surprised. One is never too old to learn a new trick, or two.

[Anonymous]

If every moment of your day is filled with passion, well, God bless you. For most ordinary humans, each day can have its moments of passion, but also moments of getting through the boring details of life that must be handled. Kids need to learn how to handle a bit of boredom sometimes and not just give something up because it is not exciting every single moment. If you ever work in a lab, you will have a lot of boring moments that are part of the overall end result. If you ever have the care of a baby or toddler, you will sometimes encounter boring moments. An adult learns how to stick to a job even when every moment is not exciting or entertaining. An adult learns that great things can eventually be the result of dealing with a lot of boring moments, so an adult knows how to carry on with grace and learn and grow even when life is not particularly pleasant.

You have a lot to learn.