| "It takes a Village to Raise a Child", although | | | | 2.) Virtual Connections are powerful sources for |
| cliché the very essence of this old saying holds | | | | providing educational exposure. Connecting to the |
| great significance in the field of education. The power | | | | outside world has never been easier. Utilizing the |
| behind the statement allows us to recognize that one | | | | internet for projects and incorporating podcast, skyping |
| teacher alone can not provide students with the | | | | technologies, webinars and social media networks |
| immeasurable amount of attention required to ensure | | | | always for excellent means of sharing resources with |
| their success. | | | | other educators. |
| During my experience as an educator, I've always | | | | 3.) Invite organizations such as the museum and zoo to |
| implemented this concept into my classroom. I'm | | | | your class room to provide students some level of |
| reminded of the TEAM of individuals who influenced | | | | exposure. |
| my learning and prepared me for my role today as an | | | | 4.) Seeking male mentors is crucial specifically within |
| educator and educational advocate. While, there are | | | | urban education. The presence of male mentors to |
| many strategies that educators may use to ensure | | | | read, tutor in math and engage in character |
| the success of their students I believe that one | | | | development lessons provides educators with an |
| surpasses them all...the use of community connections | | | | opportunity to expose students to figures that are not |
| and resources. | | | | ordinarily visible. |
| With tough economic times impeding upon every | | | | 5.) If teachers have access to video conference they |
| industry, the educational field is no exception. For some | | | | can video conference local agencies, other classrooms |
| schools and the teachers that work within them the | | | | and individuals into the classroom. For example: The |
| signs of the times has only strengthen its' already | | | | Houston aquarium is available to provide science |
| dismal funding availability. | | | | lessons via video conferencing. This is also a great |
| Teachers, working from a shortage of textbooks, | | | | way to include international exposure into lessons by |
| resources and supplies can still offer exceptional | | | | partnering with a class from another country. |
| learning opportunities. By utilizing community | | | | 6.) Photography: As teachers we often have access |
| connections, committing to planning and depending | | | | to experiences that our students do not. Taking |
| upon their creative energy teachers can bring the | | | | pictures and using photographic portfolios to enhance |
| outside world into the classroom. | | | | lessons can be excellent for visual learners. |
| Here are a few of my favorite tips: | | | | Utilizing community connections also builds a sense of |
| 1.) Invite professionals to serve as guest speakers and | | | | support between the schools, educators, and |
| or teacher for the day. For example, you can invite a | | | | community members. The value of our schools and |
| banker or accountant for math class during lessons | | | | the quality of our students are important to the |
| about money. You can host a community leader for | | | | success of businesses within the communities they |
| history or social studies. These individuals usually have | | | | operate. Building a bridge between these entities |
| hands on activities that they can bring to class to | | | | involves entire communities in the development of |
| enhance the lessons. | | | | Educationally Enriched Youth. |