Accelerated Reader Chatboard

Join Teachers.Net

Chatboards

Recent Groups

Accelerated Reader

MEMBERS

2 Members

+ Join Group

Pinned Posts

ALLAll Teachers

Teachers.Net LIVE CHAT Support group - Tues eve!

Featured Jobs

Full-timeMontessori Teacher

Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada

TemporaryTeachers, rural schools

Peace River North School District

Full-timeHead Teacher: 2nd/3rd Grades – Mills College Children’s School

Mills College

Teaching Jobs on Teachers.Net

Featured Job special only $39!

https://teachers.net/jobs

Become a Teachers.Net sponsor!

Accelerated Reader Chatboard

alternatives to Accelerated Reader

by middle school teacher

Dec 1, 2010

AR is getting a little expensive and has questionable benefits in middle school. I'm interested in hearing about good alternatives! Anyone?

Comment

(4)

report post

view previous comments

need answers On 12/11/10, why questionable? wrote: > Anything that motivates the kids to read and AR really does that, > is worth the money in my book. With the upcoming changes in AR, it will be too costly for our self-supporting school to continue with it. We have a lot of money invested in the program and are looking for other solutions.

Apr 19, 2012

report post

AR frustrated How about [link removed]

On 12/07/10, Hummm... wrote: > What happened before AR? > > > On 12/01/10, middle school teacher wrote: >> AR is getting a little expensive and has questionable >> benefits in middle school. I'm interested in hearing about >> good alternatives! Anyone?

May 9, 2012

report post

Deleting Students

by Deb

Dec 16, 2010

I am having trouble deleting students. When I try to delete them a box pops up that says they are enrolled in A.M. but when I check they are not. Does anybody know if there is a way to get around this?

Comment

(1)

report post

You have to unenroll and then delete student. On 12/16/10, Deb wrote: > I am having trouble deleting students. When I try to delete > them a box pops up that says they are enrolled in A.M. but > when I check they are not. Does anybody know if there is a > way to get around this?

Dec 16, 2010

report post

Julie Andrews husband just died.

by nfm

Dec 16, 2010

nfm

Comment

report post

I know what would fix this.

by HOME SCHOOL

Dec 27, 2010

If teachers cannot teach your children appropriately, teach them yourself.

Comment

(1)

report post

thing about poor surgeons? nfm On 12/27/10, HOME SCHOOL wrote: > If teachers cannot teach your children appropriately, teach > them yourself.

Dec 27, 2010

report post

Unpleasant

by Diana

Dec 28, 2010

This is a very unpleasant chatboard...so much argument, anger and accusation! Nothing helpful. Perhaps Teachers.net should consider discontinuing it.

Comment

(1)

report post

The Masked Avenger I have emailed many times about the state of this chatboard. They have been helpful in removing some of the nasty personal attack posts. That is it.

The same thing happens on some of the other boards. The main board has gotten really, really nasty. Many people who used to post here regularly no longer do so. I have been around for well ov...See More

Dec 29, 2010

report post

Fireman Dad

by Deb ms/IA

Dec 29, 2010

I see you are back terrorizing the AR board. You must not have resolved the problem at your school. Since you have nothing positive to offer this board and you continue to make generalizations (teachers only use AR to get out of doing their grading properly or to not use the basal properly and other such ramblings) why don't you slink off and start...See MoreI see you are back terrorizing the AR board. You must not have resolved the problem at your school. Since you have nothing positive to offer this board and you continue to make generalizations (teachers only use AR to get out of doing their grading properly or to not use the basal properly and other such ramblings) why don't you slink off and start your own I HATE AR BOARD. That way this board can be used as it was intended, support for those who use AR.

You were given honest help way back when. Those of us who use it properly, as a SUPPLEMENT to the regular reading class gave you honest advice and help. If your school continues to not do this properly then you need to take it up with your principal and or your school board.

As for the grading of AR, especially in the middle school and high school areas, you have been given advice on how the company has addressed the needs of teachers. Amy I suggest you attend a training for AR that is held near your area?

Reading not only needs to be taught but it needs to be practiced. That's exactly what AR is practicing reading at your own pace and level. AR was never meant to be a full reading program teaching reading skills. It is meant as a practice supplement the same as Mad Minute Math drills are for math or the same as composing some type of essay for writing or a lab for science.

As for parenting, IF parents set their children up to love and encourage reading as a baby and toddler and preschooler later in life that child may choose to be a reading lover. If the foundation isn't in place by the time a child enters kindergarten then teachers have a harder time catching on to reading or let alone love it. IF parents don't set limits on electronic devices then reading practice is also stunted.

I am amazed at how many hours, especially boys, spend on X-Box or in "man caves" playing electronic games. Can you image how the reading ability of this nation would improve if kids spent equal amounts of time reading as they do on electronic devices? Heck I bet if parents added up the texting minutes on their children's phones and made them read that much time reading ability would rise. But parents aren't doing this so teachers, once again, are picking up the slack and holding kids accountable for reading. It is the same picking up of slack schools have done in providing lunch, breakfast, sex ed, drug ed, checkbook skills, etc...

So parents DO play a part in this problem!

Obesity and reading too much? That is laughable! Obesity is also a parent factor not a reading factor. I think studies have linked obesity to increased video gaming but I haven't checked lately. Too much reading has not caused any adverse effects in children but too little reading has caused learning difficulties.

I do challenge you to spend a week in my shoes, or heck your child's teacher shoes. Maybe you would understand AR and several other things within the school that you are blind to. There is so much more to teaching reading then you will ever know by complaining and fussing on a teacher chatboard.

Some of what you will see will open your eyes to the complexities of teaching!

Deb ms/IA Mom of two adult college kids Mom to three foster kids teacher for 24 years reading specialist AR supporter

Comment

(13)

report post

view previous comments

Missed the point & done with Fireman dad Would I be concerned?....I would HOPE that my FATHER would be concerned and get out of the situation-by transferring to a different station. Didn't I already go over this with you? PUT YOUR CHILD IN A PLACEMENT THAT SUITS YOU BOTH!!!! LEAVE THE CURRENT SITUATION IF YOU ARE NOT HAPPY> You will not be able to change city hall. Nor will you singleh...See MoreWould I be concerned?....I would HOPE that my FATHER would be concerned and get out of the situation-by transferring to a different station. Didn't I already go over this with you? PUT YOUR CHILD IN A PLACEMENT THAT SUITS YOU BOTH!!!! LEAVE THE CURRENT SITUATION IF YOU ARE NOT HAPPY> You will not be able to change city hall. Nor will you singlehandedly close-down Renaissance Learning, you will NOT get the ending that you wish. After last year, hasn't your child been assigned to a new teacher? new year, new day? New attitude? Why have you failed to move-on and get a new hobby instead of patrolling a teacher's board with your negative attitude. Maybe its those crazy firefighter hours? get a 9-5 if you can't handle the heat! Hmmm...as per your silly question... pour kerosene on a fire???...let's see. If that was the order that my father was given, and he disagreed with the chief's order, then he could do precisely what I suggested you do- LEAVE! If you want to make changes, then BE THE CHIEF. Put up or Shut Up! You don't like the free public education system provided in America for your child?- Then find another placement. If you have such a problem with AR and you think you could do a better job ...then go to school, get a teaching degree, teach for a while, and implement change. That's how change happens. Obviously the people with the "know how" at the top have faith in what they are doing, and you seem to be the only one, looking "in" from the outside, who has a problem with it. As I always say: there are three things you can do; 1. Change the situation 2. Change how you FEEL about the situation or 3. feel bad. Looks like you're stuck in option three, so there will be no end to your terrible, lifelong misery. Oh wait...your kid will GROW up, and you will need to find something else to have a "terrible, horrible, no good. very bad day" about. If you read to your child, you should know where THAT came from. :) I'll give you a hint- ITS AN A.R. BOOK!!!!!!! (gasp) On 1/05/11, If the liutenant and chief had ever ordered your Dad wrote: > to douse fires with kerosene, wouldn't you be concerned? > > On 1/05/11, NYFD Daughter wrote: >> OK Fireman Dad, I admire your profession. I'm the daughter >> of a NYC Firefighter who has "seen the light" in the line >> of duty. Never in a million years would I question my >> dad's methods, strength, devotion, dedication, or >> willingness to "work" at his job. He's on duty- he works. >> The alarm sounds, he goes. He chose his profession, as I >> did mine. Until 9/11, I would hear, "Oh, your dad's just >> a firefighter?" A blue collar job. I, fortunately, knew >> there was MUCH more to firefighting, and MUCH more to what >> goes on in the profession than those "naysayers" because I >> lived with one. People who have NO idea what really goes >> on, should judge not. (see where this is going?) >> >> Is my dad in "charge" of Engine Co.302, Ladder Co. 155? >> NOPE. Drives the pumper. Takes his orders from the >> Lieutenant, and the chief. Teachers take their orders >> about curriculum decisions and reading programs from the >> principal, the School Board, the Superintendent, the >> Office of Curriculum and Instruction- NOT parents. Just as >> the Fire Department does not take its orders from the >> general public, or by "popular vote" of the neighborhood >> clientele they serve, neither does the Office of >> Curriculum and Instruction. If teachers are told to use >> AR a certain way, they MUST. >> >> With the 'final order' comes training, materials, a >> pacing guide, and the "rationale" of 'how, when and why' >> we do what we do. (Do you recall firefighter's academy? >> Training. Real-life, hands-on training! Unless you've had >> it, you can't possibly know.) My point is, you can read, >> listen, talk, think-you-know, and question the art and >> science of teaching until you are blue in the face, and >> hide behind the guise of "I'm doing this for my kid..." >> all you want. But, until you've been "at the academy" and >> have been on the front lines, you really don't know. >> >> Fortunately, as a parent, you have the right to a free >> public education in America. You also have the freedom to >> chose an alternative educational setting, should you so >> desire. If you find that it is not a "perfect fit"- you >> can choose a more appropriate one "on behalf of your >> child". To parallel that, if a "neighborhood resident" >> does not feel that their neighborhood firehouse is >> providing adequately trained firemen, or that the firemen >> just "sit around all day not responding to fires"...then >> they have the right to move someplace where they feel >> safer. It's an opinion. It's what you "think" you see, or >> what you "think you've heard or know." A "little match of >> information" in the wrong hands can be dangerous. (namely, >> yours) >> >> Teaching is not an easy profession, and although it is not >> life-or-death on a daily basis, we have the stress of >> being responsible for the future "firefighters, doctors, >> lawyers, parents and politicians." >> My question to Fireman Dad...after all this time, why are >> you continuing to "start fires" about something you know a >> little about? Why not be part of the solution? Why don't >> you stop "blowing smoke" and start to work WITH your >> child's teacher? Otherwise, this whole argument needs to >> be extinguished.... >> Proud and THANKFUL NYFD Daughter >> who spent MANY sleepless nights worried about dad >> >> On 12/29/10, Fireman Dad wrote: >>> On 12/29/10, Deb, why are you even wasting your time? >>> wrote: >>>> Fireman dad does not want to hear anything he >>>> disagrees with so why are you even bothering? >>> >>> Neither do you !! >>> >>> Those of us who know what it is like in the classroom >> and >>>> know how well AR works getting kids to read and know >>>> the benefits of the program stopped wasting our time >>>> reasoning with him so you should do the same and >>>> enjoy your holiday break. >>> >>> The way you use AR, Ar doesnt get kids to read...YOU >>> get kids to read...there is a difference. Anyone will >>> read if they are threatened, but getting them to read >>> because they want to is different.... That was my >>> initial point when this whole thing began. >>> >>> >>>> >>>> On 12/29/10, whoa, Nellie wrote: >>>>> Not so fast there. You were discrediting what was >>>>> said in the other thread about the comparison given >>>>> not being legit. As a reading specialist you should >>>>> know context is EVERYTHING in comprehension. Look >>>>> at what the poster said when saying the comment was >>>>> not legit, "No comparison there between a >>>>> discussion with a teacher and a fireman while he is >>>>> trying to put out a fire. " Do you notice that >>>>> the comment was about the comparison was while the >>>>> fireman was putting out the fire not about the >>>>> comparison between firefighters and teachers in >>>>> general? >>>>> >>>>> I didn't say your example didn't happen, but you >>>>> did change the scenario under which the comment was >>>>> made that comparing a teacher to a fireman was not >>>>> legit - you removed the context, put it in another >>>>> thread, and placed the discussion with the >>>>> firefighter AFTER the fire was out and in the >>>>> investigatory phase. This is diversionary. >>>>> >>>>> I also must ask, is a discussion between a teacher >>>>> regarding how the student/child is reacting to the >>>>> methods used by the teacher anywhere the same as >>>>> inteferring with an investigation to rule out >>>>> crime? How is asking questions inteferring with >>>>> investigations? Lying to an investigator is >>>>> inteferring, stopping them in the middle of what >>>>> they are doing may be interferring, but most times >>>>> when it comes to conferences with teachers it isn't >>>>> during instruction time unlike what you are >>>>> suggesting with the investigation. And I don't >>>>> believe asking questions of the investigator will >>>>> result in you getting arrested for doing so. They >>>>> may not answer your questions because it is an >>>>> investigation - much different than instruction of >>>>> students - but surely you cannot be arrested unless >>>>> you make yourself look like a suspect by the types >>>>> of questions you ask. Are you suggesting that >>>>> parents should be arrested if they question the >>>>> teachers too much? Are you saying that the public >>>>> shouldn't question the fire investigator if it is >>>>> obvious he is doing something wrong in fear that >>>>> the person might be arrested? >>>>> >>>>> Explain how questions from parents impede >>>>> instruction? Cuts into your contract time so you >>>>> can't grade papers? Knowing that there is a problem >>>>> with the student isn't part of your job? >>>>> >>>>> On 12/29/10, Deb ms/IA wrote: >>>>>> I wasn't changing any scenario. I was simply >>>>>> stating that the comparison between a fireman and >>>>>> teach is legit. Two professionals being >>>>>> interrupted by laymen while on the job as that >>>>>> professional. There is no comprehension problem >>>>>> because it is a simple comparison. Do you have a >>>>>> problem making connections between to >>>>>> professions? The comparison had nothing to do >>>>>> with hooking up the hose, it had to with >>>>>> questioning a fire fighter as he was doing his >>>>>> job. >>>>>> >>>>>> Diversionary tactic? Nope, just an honest >>>>>> comparison between a teacher and a fire fighter >>>>>> doing their jobs. What is your problem with this >>>>>> comparison? >>>>>> >>>>>> I did not make up my story. I had a set of twins >>>>>> in their home with 4 other people when an idiot >>>>>> fire bombed the house the week before Christmas. >>>>>> I applied a real life event to further SUPPORT my >>>>>> stance that comparing a fireman and a teacher >>>>>> doing their jobs and being questioned by lay >>>>>> people, could impede the professional job they >>>>>> do. It does not matter the scene presented at the >>>>>> fire. If a lay person was questioning the fire >>>>>> fighters course of action his/her job would be >>>>>> impeded. The exact same thing can happen in a >>>>>> classroom. There is nothing hidden nor >>>>>> diversionary in this post. I do NOT struggle with >>>>>> any reading or comprehension but maybe you do?? >>>>>> >>>>>> Deb ms/IA >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On 12/29/10, whoa, Nellie - I mean Deb ms/IA wrote: >>>>>>> You said you were a reading specialist. Right? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Why do you struggle to read and comprehend? The >>>>>>> post you are mentioning said that the fireman >>>>>>> would be questioned while trying to hook up the >>>>>>> hose to put out the fire. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Are you unable to read and comprehend or is >>>>>>> this a diversionary tactic to try to change the >>>>>>> story so no one would notice? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Lynde said, "If I were to argue with the >>>>>>> fireman who came to put out my housefire, I >>>>>>> might not get the fire put out--he'd be too >>>>>>> busy justifying to me why he was going to pull >>>>>>> out the hose and hook it up to the >>>>>>> hydrant." >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I was unaware this was too complex of a >>>>>>> statement for a reading specialist to >>>>>>> understand. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Based on the actual comment that was made, not >>>>>>> your new made up scenario without any mention >>>>>>> of the actual statement, it does seem that a >>>>>>> questioning a teacher about methods and a >>>>>>> fireman at the time he is putting out a fire is >>>>>>> really not a suitable comparison. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 12/29/10, Deb ms/IA who forgot one point wrote: >>>>>>>> Comparing a teacher to a fireman IS a fair >>>>>>>> comparison. >>>>>>> I had >>>>>>>> two students rendered homeless when a weirdo >>>>>>>> fire bombed their house the week before >>>>>>>> Christmas. They spent the holiday in a hotel >>>>>>>> until things were cleared and the fire >>>>>>>> marshal and police did their investigations. >>>>>>>> It was mostly outside damage but some >>>>>>>> electric and other problems. Had I, the >>>>>>>> untrained layman, tried to question >>>>>>>> everything these professionals did I would be >>>>>>>> arrested for impeding an investigation. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> A teacher must meet the needs of diverse >>>>>>>> students and then a parent comes and >>>>>>>> questions what is being done in the >>>>>>>> classroom. Helicopter parent, meddling >>>>>>>> parent, PITA parent but nonetheless a layman >>>>>>>> in terms of the teaching profession. Teachers >>>>>>>> take this harrassment far more than they >>>>>>>> should because it comes from the top down and >>>>>>>> from parents. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> As to the comparison of a foreman to a >>>>>>>> teacher, both are professionals being >>>>>>>> questioned by lay people with no training in >>>>>>>> the field. So this comparison can stand the >>>>>>>> test. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Deb ms/IA >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>

Jan 6, 2011

report post

Fireman Dad I was not the one that asked that questin about kerosene although I do get the blame FDNY daughter. I am also not the one that keeps bringing it up. Others bring it up and I will sometimes give my opinion about it. I have never said that AR is bad or children should not read. I think AR can be overused by some teachers because its easy for them to ...See MoreI was not the one that asked that questin about kerosene although I do get the blame FDNY daughter. I am also not the one that keeps bringing it up. Others bring it up and I will sometimes give my opinion about it. I have never said that AR is bad or children should not read. I think AR can be overused by some teachers because its easy for them to grade. I think it is also misused by some. I have never said that all teachers misuse it or abuse it, but some do. Yes, my son had moved on and so have I. His teachers this year ( same school, different grade) were appalled at what happened last year and couldnt believe it. Also, the whole county school system uses it differently from school to school and our school uses it differently between grades. So, again, please dont tell me that I dont know what I'm talking about or that teachers are mandated by the board or the principal to use it and that it's out of their control. It may be that way at your school, but not at ours. This again is an issue of some teachers on here thinking that they know everything as well and that all schools operate the same as your school does. It doesnt.

I appreciate the respect you have for my profession and although you may not believe it, I appreciate your profession as well. Because I have an issue with the way something is done or handles or used, that does not mean I dont understand things or appreciate what you do. If I see something wrong or something that could be better, I will speak up. Because I disagree with some things doenst mean I'm the enemy. If some people would listen and not get defensive so fast, maybe they wouold see my point..although you may not agree, maybe you could see it. Let's agree to disagree. I'm fine with that. But remember, there are 2 sides to this even from within your profession, so please dont tell me that I dont know what I'm talking about and that because I havent set through some overpriced (ha ha) training course, that my opinion doesnt matter. I have seen what misuse does to the young readers. My child reads everyday, both independently and with us. We encourage him with every ounce of strength we have and want the best for him. Last year AR was misused and he hated to read...bottom line, no if ands or buts...We got past that and hes doing great...reading more points than his goal and still wants to read more. The grading issue is different this year and he doesnt feel the pressure that he did last year. It's a big difference. Thats my point... Carrot vs Whip....

On 1/06/11, Missed the point & done with Fireman dad wrote: > Would I be concerned?....I would HOPE that my FATHER would be > concerned and get out of the situation-by transferring to a > different station. Didn't I already go over this with you? PUT > YOUR CHILD IN A PLACEMENT THAT SUITS YOU BOTH!!!! LEAVE THE > CURRENT SITUATION IF YOU ARE NOT HAPPY> You will not be able to > change city hall. Nor will you singlehandedly close-down > Renaissance Learning, you will NOT get the ending that you wish. > After last year, hasn't your child been assigned to a new teacher? > new year, new day? New attitude? Why have you failed to move-on > and get a new hobby instead of patrolling a teacher's board with > your negative attitude. Maybe its those crazy firefighter hours? > get a 9-5 if you can't handle the heat! > Hmmm...as per your silly question... pour kerosene on a > fire???...let's see. If that was the order that my father was > given, and he disagreed with the chief's order, then he could do > precisely what I suggested you do- LEAVE! If you want to make > changes, then BE THE CHIEF. Put up or Shut Up! You don't like the > free public education system provided in America for your child?- > Then find another placement. If you have such a problem with AR > and you think you could do a better job ...then go to school, get > a teaching degree, teach for a while, and implement change. That's > how change happens. Obviously the people with the "know how" at > the top have faith in what they are doing, and you seem to be the > only one, looking "in" from the outside, who has a problem with it. > As I always say: there are three things you can do; > 1. Change the situation > 2. Change how you FEEL about the situation > or 3. feel bad. > Looks like you're stuck in option three, so there will be no end > to your terrible, lifelong misery. Oh wait...your kid will GROW > up, and you will need to find something else to have a "terrible, > horrible, no good. very bad day" about. If you read to your child, > you should know where THAT came from. :) I'll give you a hint- ITS > AN A.R. BOOK!!!!!!! (gasp) > On 1/05/11, If the liutenant and chief had ever ordered your Dad > wrote: >> to douse fires with kerosene, wouldn't you be concerned? >> >> On 1/05/11, NYFD Daughter wrote: >>> OK Fireman Dad, I admire your profession. I'm the daughter >>> of a NYC Firefighter who has "seen the light" in the line >>> of duty. Never in a million years would I question my >>> dad's methods, strength, devotion, dedication, or >>> willingness to "work" at his job. He's on duty- he works. >>> The alarm sounds, he goes. He chose his profession, as I >>> did mine. Until 9/11, I would hear, "Oh, your dad's just >>> a firefighter?" A blue collar job. I, fortunately, knew >>> there was MUCH more to firefighting, and MUCH more to what >>> goes on in the profession than those "naysayers" because I >>> lived with one. People who have NO idea what really goes >>> on, should judge not. (see where this is going?) >>> >>> Is my dad in "charge" of Engine Co.302, Ladder Co. 155? >>> NOPE. Drives the pumper. Takes his orders from the >>> Lieutenant, and the chief. Teachers take their orders >>> about curriculum decisions and reading programs from the >>> principal, the School Board, the Superintendent, the >>> Office of Curriculum and Instruction- NOT parents. Just as >>> the Fire Department does not take its orders from the >>> general public, or by "popular vote" of the neighborhood >>> clientele they serve, neither does the Office of >>> Curriculum and Instruction. If teachers are told to use >>> AR a certain way, they MUST. >>> >>> With the 'final order' comes training, materials, a >>> pacing guide, and the "rationale" of 'how, when and why' >>> we do what we do. (Do you recall firefighter's academy? >>> Training. Real-life, hands-on training! Unless you've had >>> it, you can't possibly know.) My point is, you can read, >>> listen, talk, think-you-know, and question the art and >>> science of teaching until you are blue in the face, and >>> hide behind the guise of "I'm doing this for my kid..." >>> all you want. But, until you've been "at the academy" and >>> have been on the front lines, you really don't know. >>> >>> Fortunately, as a parent, you have the right to a free >>> public education in America. You also have the freedom to >>> chose an alternative educational setting, should you so >>> desire. If you find that it is not a "perfect fit"- you >>> can choose a more appropriate one "on behalf of your >>> child". To parallel that, if a "neighborhood resident" >>> does not feel that their neighborhood firehouse is >>> providing adequately trained firemen, or that the firemen >>> just "sit around all day not responding to fires"...then >>> they have the right to move someplace where they feel >>> safer. It's an opinion. It's what you "think" you see, or >>> what you "think you've heard or know." A "little match of >>> information" in the wrong hands can be dangerous. (namely, >>> yours) >>> >>> Teaching is not an easy profession, and although it is not >>> life-or-death on a daily basis, we have the stress of >>> being responsible for the future "firefighters, doctors, >>> lawyers, parents and politicians." >>> My question to Fireman Dad...after all this time, why are >>> you continuing to "start fires" about something you know a >>> little about? Why not be part of the solution? Why don't >>> you stop "blowing smoke" and start to work WITH your >>> child's teacher? Otherwise, this whole argument needs to >>> be extinguished.... >>> Proud and THANKFUL NYFD Daughter >>> who spent MANY sleepless nights worried about dad >>> >>> On 12/29/10, Fireman Dad wrote: >>>> On 12/29/10, Deb, why are you even wasting your time? >>>> wrote: >>>>> Fireman dad does not want to hear anything he >>>>> disagrees with so why are you even bothering? >>>> >>>> Neither do you !! >>>> >>>> Those of us who know what it is like in the classroom >>> and >>>>> know how well AR works getting kids to read and know >>>>> the benefits of the program stopped wasting our time >>>>> reasoning with him so you should do the same and >>>>> enjoy your holiday break. >>>> >>>> The way you use AR, Ar doesnt get kids to read...YOU >>>> get kids to read...there is a difference. Anyone will >>>> read if they are threatened, but getting them to read >>>> because they want to is different.... That was my >>>> initial point when this whole thing began. >>>> >>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 12/29/10, whoa, Nellie wrote: >>>>>> Not so fast there. You were discrediting what was >>>>>> said in the other thread about the comparison given >>>>>> not being legit. As a reading specialist you should >>>>>> know context is EVERYTHING in comprehension. Look >>>>>> at what the poster said when saying the comment was >>>>>> not legit, "No comparison there between a >>>>>> discussion with a teacher and a fireman while he is >>>>>> trying to put out a fire. " Do you notice that >>>>>> the comment was about the comparison was while the >>>>>> fireman was putting out the fire not about the >>>>>> comparison between firefighters and teachers in >>>>>> general? >>>>>> >>>>>> I didn't say your example didn't happen, but you >>>>>> did change the scenario under which the comment was >>>>>> made that comparing a teacher to a fireman was not >>>>>> legit - you removed the context, put it in another >>>>>> thread, and placed the discussion with the >>>>>> firefighter AFTER the fire was out and in the >>>>>> investigatory phase. This is diversionary. >>>>>> >>>>>> I also must ask, is a discussion between a teacher >>>>>> regarding how the student/child is reacting to the >>>>>> methods used by the teacher anywhere the same as >>>>>> inteferring with an investigation to rule out >>>>>> crime? How is asking questions inteferring with >>>>>> investigations? Lying to an investigator is >>>>>> inteferring, stopping them in the middle of what >>>>>> they are doing may be interferring, but most times >>>>>> when it comes to conferences with teachers it isn't >>>>>> during instruction time unlike what you are >>>>>> suggesting with the investigation. And I don't >>>>>> believe asking questions of the investigator will >>>>>> result in you getting arrested for doing so. They >>>>>> may not answer your questions because it is an >>>>>> investigation - much different than instruction of >>>>>> students - but surely you cannot be arrested unless >>>>>> you make yourself look like a suspect by the types >>>>>> of questions you ask. Are you suggesting that >>>>>> parents should be arrested if they question the >>>>>> teachers too much? Are you saying that the public >>>>>> shouldn't question the fire investigator if it is >>>>>> obvious he is doing something wrong in fear that >>>>>> the person might be arrested? >>>>>> >>>>>> Explain how questions from parents impede >>>>>> instruction? Cuts into your contract time so you >>>>>> can't grade papers? Knowing that there is a problem >>>>>> with the student isn't part of your job? >>>>>> >>>>>> On 12/29/10, Deb ms/IA wrote: >>>>>>> I wasn't changing any scenario. I was simply >>>>>>> stating that the comparison between a fireman and >>>>>>> teach is legit. Two professionals being >>>>>>> interrupted by laymen while on the job as that >>>>>>> professional. There is no comprehension problem >>>>>>> because it is a simple comparison. Do you have a >>>>>>> problem making connections between to >>>>>>> professions? The comparison had nothing to do >>>>>>> with hooking up the hose, it had to with >>>>>>> questioning a fire fighter as he was doing his >>>>>>> job. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Diversionary tactic? Nope, just an honest >>>>>>> comparison between a teacher and a fire fighter >>>>>>> doing their jobs. What is your problem with this >>>>>>> comparison? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> I did not make up my story. I had a set of twins >>>>>>> in their home with 4 other people when an idiot >>>>>>> fire bombed the house the week before Christmas. >>>>>>> I applied a real life event to further SUPPORT my >>>>>>> stance that comparing a fireman and a teacher >>>>>>> doing their jobs and being questioned by lay >>>>>>> people, could impede the professional job they >>>>>>> do. It does not matter the scene presented at the >>>>>>> fire. If a lay person was questioning the fire >>>>>>> fighters course of action his/her job would be >>>>>>> impeded. The exact same thing can happen in a >>>>>>> classroom. There is nothing hidden nor >>>>>>> diversionary in this post. I do NOT struggle with >>>>>>> any reading or comprehension but maybe you do?? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Deb ms/IA >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 12/29/10, whoa, Nellie - I mean Deb ms/IA wrote: >>>>>>>> You said you were a reading specialist. Right? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Why do you struggle to read and comprehend? The >>>>>>>> post you are mentioning said that the fireman >>>>>>>> would be questioned while trying to hook up the >>>>>>>> hose to put out the fire. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Are you unable to read and comprehend or is >>>>>>>> this a diversionary tactic to try to change the >>>>>>>> story so no one would notice? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Lynde said, "If I were to argue with the >>>>>>>> fireman who came to put out my housefire, I >>>>>>>> might not get the fire put out--he'd be too >>>>>>>> busy justifying to me why he was going to pull >>>>>>>> out the hose and hook it up to the >>>>>>>> hydrant." >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> I was unaware this was too complex of a >>>>>>>> statement for a reading specialist to >>>>>>>> understand. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Based on the actual comment that was made, not >>>>>>>> your new made up scenario without any mention >>>>>>>> of the actual statement, it does seem that a >>>>>>>> questioning a teacher about methods and a >>>>>>>> fireman at the time he is putting out a fire is >>>>>>>> really not a suitable comparison. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 12/29/10, Deb ms/IA who forgot one point wrote: >>>>>>>>> Comparing a teacher to a fireman IS a fair >>>>>>>>> comparison. >>>>>>>> I had >>>>>>>>> two students rendered homeless when a weirdo >>>>>>>>> fire bombed their house the week before >>>>>>>>> Christmas. They spent the holiday in a hotel >>>>>>>>> until things were cleared and the fire >>>>>>>>> marshal and police did their investigations. >>>>>>>>> It was mostly outside damage but some >>>>>>>>> electric and other problems. Had I, the >>>>>>>>> untrained layman, tried to question >>>>>>>>> everything these professionals did I would be >>>>>>>>> arrested for impeding an investigation. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> A teacher must meet the needs of diverse >>>>>>>>> students and then a parent comes and >>>>>>>>> questions what is being done in the >>>>>>>>> classroom. Helicopter parent, meddling >>>>>>>>> parent, PITA parent but nonetheless a layman >>>>>>>>> in terms of the teaching profession. Teachers >>>>>>>>> take this harrassment far more than they >>>>>>>>> should because it comes from the top down and >>>>>>>>> from parents. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> As to the comparison of a foreman to a >>>>>>>>> teacher, both are professionals being >>>>>>>>> questioned by lay people with no training in >>>>>>>>> the field. So this comparison can stand the >>>>>>>>> test. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Deb ms/IA >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>

Jan 8, 2011

report post

What AR is . . .

by The Masked Avenger

Dec 29, 2010

The AR program is one way to assess independent reading ability. That's it.

It's not the reading program. It has never been marketed as that. It is merely one part of a complete reading program.

AR is also not a "teacher-less" program that allows the teacher to sit by while students read silently and take tests. It is actually a ...See More

Comment

(6)

report post

view previous comments

Deb ms/IA In Fireman Dads original post almost a year ago it did not seem that AR was the ONLY reading program, in his sons elementary school. In fact his was upset that the school couldn't maintain 30 minutes of the 45 minutes a day reading time. AR goals were based on 45 minutes a day of reading with 30 done at school and 15 at home. Parents didn't mind 15...See MoreIn Fireman Dads original post almost a year ago it did not seem that AR was the ONLY reading program, in his sons elementary school. In fact his was upset that the school couldn't maintain 30 minutes of the 45 minutes a day reading time. AR goals were based on 45 minutes a day of reading with 30 done at school and 15 at home. Parents didn't mind 15 minutes a day of at home reading, but school wasn't holding their end of the deal up (which in ANY school it is difficult to set aside 30 minutes for quiet reading without sacrificing another subject).

Then dad took issue with grades AND goal setting. He quoted the page number in the AR handbook where it says aren't encouraged and went off in that direction. Getting grades for making goals is an acceptable practice and provided for in AR if a teacher needs to go in that direction. Dad was fine with goals but not with grades.

He was given advice about what he originally asked. IF his school was using AR as the ONLY reading grade or using ONLY AR as the core reading program he needed to go to his school and make changes. We can't change his school from this board. Instead he comes back here to beat a dead horse (one in which I added to also) and bully people on this board. He has very limited knowledge as to the workings of AR and he has no records to what this program can actually do when proper training and usage of AR are followed in the classroom. He is NOT here to assist in using AR, just trash it. He does not want questions answered he just wants to bully and look foolish.

Deb ms/IA

Here his original post:

We (my wife and I)are having some issues with the way AR is being used in our school. I have read many of the posts here and have done some information gathering from other parents, teachers, librarians principals and from other online data. Here are some of our concerns.

On page 22 of the "Getting Results with AR" booklet, it states "we do not recommend giving grades for reading practice". So why do schools feel the need to do this? Receiving a grade along with a point goal confuses what the main purpose is for AR, which I thought was reading practice.

Our school uses 45 minutes of reading time per day to get the point goal (30 minutes at school and 15 minutes at home), which is fine with us. The issue is that they dont get the full 30 minutes everyday or sometimes not at all, or in the 30 minutes set aside for reading the kids have to test and get a book from the library. This obviously cuts into the allotted reading time which is then needed to be made up at home. This in turn makes longer homework time which in turn is changing the reading attitude of my son.

So instead of having a "carrot" to get motivation to read, he sees it as a whip.

Does anyone have the same issues?

Dec 30, 2010

report post

The Masked Avenger Well said, Deb. Well said!

I wonder if Fireman Dad understands how much time he could have invested in his child's education while he's been here harassing us?

He could have read a book with his child. He could have visited the library with his child. He could have talked with the school's administration. He could have talked wi...See More

Dec 30, 2010

report post

need an Accelerated Reader buddy class

by tnteacher

Jan 8, 2011

Hello everyone,

I am a private school teacher in TN, and I have a class of readers this year! This is our first year with AR and the students are really enjoying it, as am I. However, my class has a slight problem - no other classes are even close to us in terms of points (or even percentages)! My class of 12 has a total of ___ points, and...See More

Comment

report post

Bulletin board ideas

by gph

Jan 9, 2011

I would like to have a bulletin board to motivate my students to read and earn points. I have already used a race track with race cars which worked well, but I'd like to try something different. Does anyone else do something similar?

Comment

(5)

report post

view previous comments

gph Thanks, what grade to you teach? 289 points is quite an accomplishment! Do they spend time in class reading? I find that very few of my students will read at home.

On 1/12/11, tnteacher wrote: > Yes, on that board I start over each quarter. For points, we do a > couple of things. As a class, we have a class party that I started > ...See More

Jan 17, 2011

report post

Theresa On 1/10/11, tnteacher wrote: >> This year I found cute little submarine cutouts, and I used >> them with an ocean theme. On the bulletin board I have a >> rubber ducky, starfish, treasure chest, dolphin, and tropical >> fish (20% intervals) and each time they meet that percentage >> of their goal they get to move their...See More

Aug 14, 2012

report post