1969 - 2014: Where has my time gone?

I left Millry, AL in May of 1987, ready to face the world and my choices. I landed in Ft. Campbell, KY with the love of my life. I was 18, and I didn't have a clue about where my life was taking me. Twenty seven years later, six degrees later, I still wonder where I'm heading.

A New Direction!

In August, 2013 I left a position with a great company to chart my own course once again. I figured: (1) I wasn't getting any younger... (2) I wanted a new direction in my life... (3) AND... I thought "what's the worst that can happen?" Equipped with my knowledge, experience, and resolve, I began developing materials for students. Some 3 months later, Vann Ray released its first student module. Since that time, I have continued to build materials, provide professional development for schools, assist in curriculum building, write a couple of books, and network.

What I have learned!

Have I made mistakes along the way? Oh, you bet! Lots of those! I have learned that even if you have an awesome idea, you can bank on politics sabotaging it for you. I have learned that "MONEY IS AN ISSUE" in schools that cannot be negated. I have learned that just because people want success that is not a clear indication they are willing to actually do what it takes to make it happen.

However, I have also learned there are awesome educators in this country. I have learned there are students scattered throughout our American classrooms who do want someone to mentor them and to show them how to prepare for their next phase in life, or at least point them in the right direction.

Where am I headed?

Gee... I wish I could answer that with any degree of certainty. But do any of us really know what a year or even 5 years hold for us? I watched the funeral services of my sweet precious niece, Ashley Helena Roberts, this past Sunday, and my heart was completely broken. I thought, "If anyone could make a difference in this world, Ashley would." But her life was taken much too quickly. So, with all due diligence and not fully knowing or understanding the significance of my existence at this time, I am resolved to just move forward. With renewed courage and determination, I will face the next work day and the next week. I will continue to use the skills I have to build a greater product, provide a greater service, and meet more needs of our schools. And may my epitaph of life read, "She used all she had, and she lived!"

In Memory of Ashley Helena Roberts (August 17, 1982 - April 10, 2014)

Why "30" is a GREAT Number!



I think "30" is a great number.  It is the number of years my sweet niece, Ashley Roberts, has been with us.  I'll never forget those little dimples.  This sweet face has resilience that many people will never have the ability to achieve.  No matter how she may feel, she always manages to smile.  Ashley has struggled for years with Severe Aplastic Anemia.  This disorder causes her much pain and the need for continual blood transfusions.  Yet, she never complains, (well at least not to her Aunt Sarah).  There are many things I love about Ashley.  She is so caring.  She attempts to keep her cousin, Gid, on the straight and narrow.  She is a dreamer, but she lives with the reality that at any moment her dreams may be put on hold.  She loves her family, especially her nephews, Landon and Logan.  Ashley is a giver.  She relates to others.  She keeps her spirits and energy high in spite of the medical complications she faces on a daily basis. 

We were talking tonight about Gideon and the fact he is NOT a morning person.  Ashley shared with me a conversation she and Gid had recently.  Gid said something like, "Ashley, you are so happy when you get up.  I think you take a nap during the day just so you can wake up happy all over again."  Ash replied, "Gid, when I can wake up and move without my body in pain, it is a GOOD day."  What an attitude!  So many of us would complain relentlessly if we were in the same situation. I wish I could say I have always been as positive about things that I faced in my life.  But, Ashley is a better woman than I. 

I love you, Ashley Helena!  I do think you are amazing!  Enjoy your 30th year in life!  I wish you all the health and happiness possible, and I hope that it is multiplied 10xs more.   

Who Moved My Cheese?

Sometimes we may act like 

Sniff 

Who sniffs out change early, or 

Scurry 

Who scurries into action, or 

Hem 

Who denies and resists change as he fears it will lead to something worse, or 

Haw 

Who learns to adapt in time when he sees can lead to something better!

Johnson, Spencer (1998-09-08). Who Moved My Cheese?: An A-Mazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life (Kindle Location 112). Penguin Group. Kindle Edition.

I loved this little book, and I am so thankful for the anonymous person who mentioned it in a previous post.  I think in some ways I have found myself playing the role of all four characters in the story: Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw... For example, in my own life:


Sniff Characteristics:  I tend to want the latest greatest thing on the market (i.e. the iPad, a smart phone, the latest new perfume, hair shampoo, deodorant, body wash, and so on...).  I like to see what is available.  I tend to get bored with the same thing over and over, so when cleaning my house, I go from one room to the other to see what needs work.  I like to keep up with the latest buzz words in education.  If someone needs a "SNIFF", I am the person (AS LONG AS IT IS NOT LIFE CHANGING DECISIONS!)  Now that gets a little more complicated, and I leave my "Sniff" role very quickly.

Scurry Characteristics:  Once the decision is made to move, I jump in without much thought or reason.  I often fulfill the clique "Let's just do it!" I'd rather complete the task at hand without a break to just "git 'er" done (As Larry the Cable Guy would say).  If there is a road block, I find a way around it.  My Scurry Characteristics really step up when I feel threatened or challenged.  I am not a meticulous planner by default.  I often act first, and then think about the ramifications later.  I am not patient when it comes to waiting for a detailed plan.  I often build as I go.  This works on occasion for me, but overall, while my "Scurry" behavior may keep me alive, I am not sure it helps me fulfill my greatest potential.

Hem Characteristics:  I don't see myself as a huge "HEM" kinda gal, but there are things in my life that I'd rather not change.  I really don't like opposition, and if I think the change will cause opposition, I often run from it.  Or... I will just let it go even if I know it is the right thing to do.  I think it is more of my fear of what others will think or feel than it is that I am afraid of the changes myself.  I do like to control things, so if the changes involves me letting go... then yes, I would be the perfect HEM.  I find it rather difficult to trust others to get the job done right, and if I am responsible, I'd rather do it myself, to the point of exhaustion, than to deal with having to fix what others do.  So, yes, I am a HEM person at times.  I see where I need to work on this.

Haw Characteristics:  Now... I think I am in "Haw" character most of the time.  Once it makes sense to me, I'll do it.  In many areas of my life, I have had to learn to adapt.  Life is full of adaptations, and we have to make the best decisions to make sure we survive.  I see this all the time, in my personal life... in my spiritual life... in my professional life.  I may complain about someone moving my cheese, but eventually, I go after it.  Now, I may let you know you took my cheese, and I may let you know until I worry you to death, but ultimately, you will not win.  I will find my cheese, or someone else's cheese if necessary.  And the very worst thing you can do is make me think my cheese in endangered.  I will fight for my cheese.  And don't even think about taking my grapes too!

Here are some "Cheese" Nuggets that Haw found along the way:


1.  Having Cheese Makes You Happy!  Yes it does.  Everyone wants cheese.  Cheese is comforting.  Cheese is filling.  Cheese makes you feel successful.  Cheese can take many different forms in life. I equate Cheese to Success.  It is that feeling we get when we know we hit the money!  We have accomplished a goal.  Or... Perhaps, we have finally arrived where we wanted to be in life with our job, finances, relationships, etc.

2.  The More Important Your Cheese Is To You The More You Want To Hold On To It! Hem and Haw were not too happy when someone took their cheese.  But the fact of life is that our cheese almost never stays stationary.  Perhaps the real lesson here is to learn that while the cheese is great, we should not get to attached to it.  I have seen people who have lost relationships, jobs, or other valuable things, and they had a very difficult time coping.  It is devastating to lose our cheese, no matter what it may be.  

3.  If You Do Not Change, You Can Become Extinct! This is to true.  Yet some people would rather become extinct than to change.  I have seen corporations bankrupt and close, churches become unfruitful, families dissolve, and communities become ghost towns because on one thing:  the inability to adapt (or change!).

4.  What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid? What is your fear keeping you from accomplishing in our life?  Think about your dreams for your life.  Now, why haven't you started moving in that direction?  Never let fear stand in the way of your dreams.  Take a chance.  What is the worst that can happen?

5.  Smell The Cheese Often So You Know When It Is Getting Old! You must know when it is time to move forward.  Know when to hold 'em, but know more when to fold 'em.  Keep your ear to the ground, and hear the rumblings.  That's my motto.  Cheese does expire.  Life experiences expire.  There are times when you need to change your habits.  Unhappy in your marriage? When was the last time you changed out your cheese?

6.  Movement In A New Direction Helps You Find New Cheese!  Stop staring at the greasy spot where your cheese once lay and expect it to appear out of thing air.  Even when God performed miracles, he usually required some human action before he would deliver them.  If you don't believe me, check it out for yourself.

7.  When You Stop Being Afraid, You Feel Good! Fear cripples you.  It keeps you from fulfilling your goals.  You can't let the fact that you can't see the cheese make you think there is no cheese. You know there is cheese.  You have eaten it before.  So, stop worrying about the idea you will never have cheese again.  Find it!

8.  Imagine Yourself Enjoying Your New Cheese Leads You To It!  Without a vision, the people perish.  Get your vision back!  Look for the cheese.  Imagine how great it will taste.  Imagine all that you are missing because you are not looking for the cheese.  Get an imagination for crying outloud!

9. The Quicker You Let Go Of Old Cheese, The Sooner You Find New Cheese! I like to think about the great times I have had in my life just like anyone else.  But if that chapter in life is closed for you, stop living on a faded memory.  Go find your new cheese (i.e. career, friend, relationship, etc.)

10.  It Is Safer To Search In The Maze, Than Remain In A Cheeseless Situation! Life is full of chances that we can either take, or not.  But when we find ourselves in a desperate situation, it is time to look for the new cheese!

The thing I loved about Haw was his willingness to learn.  I want to have those characteristics in my life.  I want to be willing to take a chance when a change is needed.  Now, there are many other things I could add here, but hopefully I have given you enough to want to read the book "Who Moved My Cheese" and make you want to "Go Get Your Cheese!"


Sarah B. Odom, PhD.

Healthcare in America

So... I've been thinking (again)!  All this hype about national healthcare is unsettling to say the least. I know the upcoming election plays a huge role in what happens in our legislative, executive, and judicial systems.  I am glad for the laws that help Americans.  While I hate to pay them, I pay the taxes to help those who need help, and I depend on the system to do the best that it can to decide who needs the help most.  I believe in putting my money where my mouth is, so just to provide evidence I am not all about talk, I payed my state and federal government over 21% of my annual salary last year in income taxes, not to mention all the taxes I paid on the goods and services I purchased, not to mention all the SSI taxes.  NOT to mention all the money I pay each month to carry health insurance for my husband and myself.  So, I think if anyone has a right to complain, people who pay 21% of their income to taxes has a right to complain.  Come to think of it, I gave more to AL and the US than I did to God.  Shame on me!

But I am not here to complain.  I am here to scold myself on my part in the growing healthcare problems in our country.  Now, typically I have had great checkups in the past.  I don't smoke, drink, or do drugs.  I have very few risk factors, and my cholesterol is usually within a normal range.  But... (as Jesus so amicably put it to the rich young ruler in Mark 10:21) "One thing thou lackest..."  Yeah... always that one thing.  I am labeled as "acute morbidly obese!"  (BUT NOT FOR LONG!) 

In addition to a higher mortality rate, I am putting myself at risk for physical and emotional diseases such as cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypertriglyceridemia, hyperinsulinemia and low levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, cardiac dysfunction, pulmonary problems, digestive diseases, and endocrine disorders as well as obstetric, orthopedic, and dermatologic complications, and cancer mortality.  Emotional risks include: depression, disrespect by others, prejudice by others, negative attitudes that others perceive me as weak-willed, ugly, awkward, self-indulgent, and anxiety.  

When deeply thinking about the healthcare crisis in this country, many of the risk factors that most Americans face are due to a direct correlation between their behaviors and the risk factors they exhibit.  Now, I can go on blaming the government and everything in between for the problems I have medically and emotionally, or I CAN TAKE CHARGE of my life.  Personally, I wouldn't care if I ever had to see a medical doctor or use the healthcare system again in my life (No offense, Michael Greene -  my sweet brother-in-law, who is a "real Dr!", according to my mother.)  

When I look at the problem with my morbidly obesity, I see another set of cause and effects.  I am a stress eater.  The more stressed I am, the more I shove things into my mouth.  In our country, we have driven ourselves to insanity trying to always have more than we can afford or pay for in this life.  I don't have the effect size statistically speaking, but I know from a qualitative perspective, stress from debt and work has definitely added to my health problems.  What in the world are we thinking! 

Each year I attempt to self-evaluate my life several times a year.  This is one of those times.  There are two things right now that if I can capture and get under control, the likelihood of my health improving greatly increases: (1) Reduction of my weight,  and (2) Reduction of my stressors! I encourage all Americans to stop a moment and complete a self-evaluation of your life.  I will never be able to truly control others' actions.  But I can control myself.  I am only one person.  It is doubtful I will have a huge impact on the upcoming elections.  It is most unlikely I will have an impact on the legislative, judicial, or executive branches of our government (although I do my part!).  But it is highly probable and likely the things I decide to do with my life have the greatest impact on my health and well-being. 

So... while I am not necessarily happy with the way things are in my country right now... I am more concerned with my own actions.  What about you?  Are you willing to take responsibility along with me on the problems we have brought on ourselves?  Or... Do you continue to place all the blame on others?  And will you like the rich young ruler go away sorrowfully?

Doing a Little "Self Assessment"

It's Saturday... A time to reflect...

There are some pressing questions on my mind as I reflect through my past week.  I want to make sure I make every moment of my life count as I know that in each and every moment I have, I will never get to relive that particular moment ever again.  So as I press the mental "rewind" of the past events of the week, I find that I spent time planning and executing professional development for my clients and company, traveling for my company, cleaning and cooking for my family, praying for my family, reading for pleasure (a rarity), attempting to be true to my diet, and many other things.  I guess for most of the week, I did spend a great deal of time simply "thinking!" 

Oh, the things that are imagined in my mind.  I have plotted and won many wars in my mind.  I have dreamed of a better time.  I have created some of the most vivid stories.  If there was a way to capture all the things that have gone through my head even this week, I would be most fortunate.  One thing I have noticed is the great amount of warfare that goes on in my mind.  I fight daily to drive out the doubts, depression, confusion, anger, revenge, and other forms of evil imaginations that would hold me back.  I seek to remain positive in spite of difficult situations.  I hope to remain optimistic in the reality of opposition.  I want to conquer, not be enslaved.  But the reality is that most of these battles are fought and won or lost in the battlefield of my mind. 

Well, I am sitting here "thinking" as I attempt to write, and the "thinking" is overpowering the "writing".  So... I guess I will close for now.  As I leave, I want to remember the importance of every second of my life.  I will not travel this path ever again.  Will I make the choices today that have a bearing on eternity?  Will I waste any of the precious moments of my life today on mundane ordinary things?  Or... Will I live an epic day conquering the battlefield of my existence and my mind? 

Gone before they were ever given a chance...

The more I read about the current state board of education elections in Alabama, the more my heart sinks. But I have come to the realization that the fight between Democrats and Republicans will eventually kill the opportunity for Alabama Schools to move forward into the 21st Century. This is a tragedy of exponential proportions. I have fought feverishly to inform the public as well as the politicians, but no one wants to listen. And as a result, our Alabama students will continue to have disadvantages that will make life harder and harder for them to overcome.

Here's what I know to be true. The current methods in which we try to show proficiency in this state is truly at the basic level. I know the cut scores, and I know the types of questions on the assessments. I have studied the item specifications in Alabama with great detail. Our current testing system seeks only to show basic proficiency. Basic proficiency will not get you into college without remediation. Basic proficiency will not give you the skills to keep a job that will sustain a family and make you successful.

We need a lot more rigor built into our current Alabama Standards and within the curriculum to have our students college and career ready. But I guess many are asking the question "Why Common Core?" After all, isn't it the next step by the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT to bring socialism and federal control over our schools? Well, if you listen to many politicians out there today, "Yes!" This is also a tragedy. I am not sure it is not a conspiracy within a conspiracy. One group knows that it is what is best, and they know if they embrace it, the other group will fight it. It will keep the poor poorer. It will keep Americans dependent on the government because they cannot provide for themselves, so in essence, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. But... those politicians can shout it from the housetops they SAVED America.

Here's what you are saying when you tell the American people that you are saving them from the HORRIBLE FEDERAL Government:

1. You are telling them that the mediocrity of our current status among all other states is OK with you.
2. You are telling them that you can live with our horrific dropout rate.
3. You are telling them that you don't feel Alabama teachers can handle the challenge of a more rigorous set of standards.
4. You are telling them that Alabama children do not deserve to have the same educational opportunities as all the children in the many states that are moving forward and embracing change.
5. You are telling them you are afraid to allow their children to be too successful.

Now I know politicians will deny this violently. But for the Alabamians that will sit down and take a closer look, you will see you are being duped. Duped by both sides. Knowledge is power. People who love power don't want the rest of us to have a lot of it. So, let's go ahead and keep the ignorant in ignorance. Let's not give our Alabama students a cutting edge. Let's keep the status quo where it is.

OK. Believe it or not, I can live with it. I work outside of the state of Alabama on most days. I am working with states that are moving forward with Common Core. I see the challenges of the high school students in IL that must take the ACT in order to show proficiency in high school. I understand the plight of these kids. Common Core is helping build a better foundation for the mathematical mind for them. They are moving forward.

For those students in Indiana, they are experiencing literacy in science and history at new and heightened levels. They are using computers and smart phones to complete Google Treks. They are forming debate teams. They are syncing with leaders and other members of the community through video conferencing. They are doing all these things in the classroom as their teachers embrace Common Core. Teachers feel more free than they have in years to do what they need to do for their classrooms. (I wonder if the politicians really want Alabamians to hear this.)

For the first time in many years, Common Core is putting autonomy back into the hands of teachers (and yet the rhetoric that we hear each day is the exact opposite). At one point in history when it was difficult to do your own research, those seeking a new land believed Greenland was green and Iceland was ice. Parents, you don't have to be duped today. Ask the tough questions. Ask how the politicians plan to give Alabamians back the $80 million (that's $80,000,000.00) in remediation that was required to help your children be able to take an entry level course in college math or English. Ask the politicians what are their NEW methods for providing new teacher training in technology so your children can have the skills needed to get a high paying job. (OH but be careful, there are some politicians who do not want you to have a high paying job. Trust me, I was recently attacked by some for being successful in what I do each day.)

Do you want to know how I have been successful in Alabama? First of all, God has blessed me abundantly. Second of all, my mother pushed me every day of my life because she knew what it would take. Third of all, my teachers kept me engaged and learning. But even with all this support, I still struggled at the university in the college of physical sciences. So, those politicians that attacked me for wanting better for Alabama students have no idea the personal struggles that I have made to be where I am. And yet, because I am successful today, they ATTACKED me for challenging them to do what is best for Alabama students.

Will I profit if Common Core standards are used in Alabama? No more than I already profit today from having a job helping schools improve. The standards do not bring wealth to educational consultants. The need for schools to improve creates a place for people with my expertise to help others. So, there will always be a need for educational expertise and problem solving skills. There will always be a need for continual training. (Well, in most states- Perhaps not Alabama!) However perhaps the greatest way in which I will profit will be the wealth Common Core could eventually bring our state. Better job opportunities for Alabamians. More businesses will be attracted to Alabama. Higher standard of living will be great. We need a change for the better.

If not Common Core... Then what? That is the question I want to ask those who are running for positions in education. What we have is not working. Check the poverty rate in Alabama. Check the NAEP scores of students in Alabama. Check the dropout rate in Alabama. BUT more importantly check the attrition of Alabama college students, and check the multiplied millions (almost a billion) a year spent for remediation to keep kids in college because they are not ready for college or career.

I know I am probably blogging for my own stress release. But I really wished just once in my lifetime citizens of this great state would demand more. I am not afraid to work harder... demand more of me. How many of those so called politicians wanting your vote will tell you the same.

My name is Sarah Odom, and I approve this blog entry!

Sarah

Irritated at Ignorance and the Politicians who use it Against the American People!

I am upset! I am angry! I am so sick of hearing how "Common Core" is a "National Curriculum" forced on the American people by the Federal Government! First of all, I would be happy to debate any of them (Democrat or Republican) any day of the week. I think it is just outrageous that the American people get duped into believing the political rhetoric during election time. Where are the true statesmen and women in this country? Where, I ask you? Where!

Here are some numbers for you! Right NOW, America is 25th in rank among the OECD countries in MATH! How about that, Democrats and Republicans? How happy are you with that? Here's another number!!! American students rank 14th in reading among OECD countries. They rank 17th in science. As if that were not enough, how about the number in the BILLIONS each year that it takes to REMEDIATE American seniors who cannot pass entrance exams into college? Oh, but let's all cause mass panic among Americans at the BIG BAD FEDERAL GOVERNMENT who is trying to force education on our students. PLEASE!!! GIVE ME A BREAK!

You should be worried about how you are BANKRUPTING our American Economy with your rhetoric! You should be worried about how every other OECD country with a viable economy is kicking our butt! But no! It is election time, and since you can't build a platform on which to run that will actually get Americans to BELIEVE in you, the next best thing you can do is "FABRICATE" a monster. Well, if that is the ONLY way you can win an election, please FABRICATE a real monster! Like the fact our economy is on the brink of catastrophic collapse! Now, why don't you talk about that for a while? Oh, that would require you to look at your party's spending over the past 30 years or so.

Unless you are an educational professional, and unless you have taken the time to actually understand the structure of the Common Core, and unless you have a better solution for the billions of dollars spent every year trying to remediate students from our dropout and pushout factories called high schools, PUT UP or SHUT UP! I for one do not believe a word that comes out of your mouth. It is a disgrace to the great men and women who worked so hard to build the political structure of this country designed to protect people, not led them in mass hysteria!

To my American friends who feel you do not know what to do, or how to process all of this political baloney... Read the facts. Go to the Common Core website and download the standards for English/Language Arts and Math. Look at what these standards are doing to help prepare our students for college and career. I ask you... NO, I implore you to think about your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family members. Do you want them to leave high school with the confidence they can enter into any university or college without spending thousands of extra dollars on remediation? Do you want your children who do not want to go to college to be able to learn technical skills that will certify their ability to apply for a career job with confidence and certainty? DEMAND more rigorous standards in your schools! DEMAND that politicians stop putting your children at risk! Common Core is not the monster. Ignorance is the monster! Know your enemy! Force those you elect to do what is best for your students!

Just because the constitution says that education is part of the "states' rights" does not mean that states can't collaboratively determine what is best for students as a standards' framework. Trust me, in reality, neither the federal government nor the state government will determine what will be necessary for your children's education. The global economy will determine it. Don't you want your children to be prepared? I do. I speak from personal experience! I speak with passion! I speak without apology!

Sarah B. Odom, PhD

Been a While!

Well, it has certainly been a while since I decided to blog... Not that I haven't been writing, I just can't seem to keep up with all the various networks in which I now belong. But writing has always been my outlet. I know it has probably gotten me into trouble on more than one occasion, but I still love doing it. Writing calms me. It seems like I can release my inner most feelings when I write, which is not necessarily a great thing. I guess for me the key is to learn how to always positively and effectively express myself. Being a passion writer is a blessing and a curse of sorts. If I feel it, I have got plenty to say. If I don't feel it, nothing makes sense, and I hit a brick wall.

One thing I like to do with my writing is reevaluate my life from time to time. I like to evaluate my trichotomy (my blog - my beliefs). Body, Soul, and Spirit...Spiritual, Emotional, Physical...So let's start with the body. I am truly mad at myself at the moment. I need an intervention plan. I'm working on it. That is really all I want to say about it at this point. Now, on to the soul, or my essence. I have met a few of my goals in life, but I have also stalled on a few. I struggle with knowing what is the perfect plan of God for my life, but I don't usually hide my head in the sand. There are times I have been bitter (usually coincides with my hormonal balance for the month) but on most days I am a purpose driven individual. I have been known to stress people out a little (or at least that is what I have been told.) But I never impose on others what I will not tackle myself. I don't like slackers. Sorry. It was instilled in me from birth. So, I probably do stress slackers out a little bit. I really don't take criticism too well. But I am trying to learn how to deal with it more positively.

Now for my spiritual side, I can ALWAYS do more. Been thinking a whole lot about my spiritual status lately. If there truly is a 9th intelligence known as Existentialism, then I want to develop mine more. If there is one thing I know for certain, our natural earthly life is but a vapor. I can't help but want my life to mean more than the few days I spend on it. I know there is something within human intellect that forces us to want to live eternally. Why? Well I guess that depends on your philosophy of life. Personally, I believe God put it there for me. I can't force others to think about the purpose of life any more than someone can force me to work a calculus problem. But, for me... I want to know. So, for the coming year, I plan to spend more time studying the Christian faith, the historical account of the Jewish people and their covenant with the great Jehovah.

So... That's what I am doing with my life in 2012. Wonder what everyone else is up to this year?

July 4th Independence Day

I married a soldier. For three years, I washed and ironed BDUs. Well, until he decided to start getting them professionally cleaned and pressed (and I did not argue one bit!) Both of my sons were born on an Army Base (Ft. Campbell, KY, Blanchfield Hospital). I loved living near an Army base. I loved to watch the aircraft fly overhead. It always made me feel safe. I even got to glimpse Air Force One leave Ft. Campbell with the Senior George Bush aboard. I visited the post, went to the PX and commissary, and waited for a group of soldiers to run past my car on more than one occasion. And I was proud to do it.

I am grateful for every soldier in this country who gives his and her life away to take care of us. Whether it is time away from home and loved ones or the ultimate sacrifice, I am so grateful. Because of the sacrifices our early American men and women made to make this country free, I feel we owe them due diligence to keep the spirit of America alive. However, in this contemporary era of personal greed and gain, we have lost sight of the price they paid for us to have the abundance of liberty we enjoy today.

We need to regain the Spirit of America! It will start with each of us deciding to do the RIGHT THING! Honor our Forefathers! Honor the American Dream! Stop promoting our selfishness, and provide for our children and future generations. And most importantly, stop forgetting about the God who brought us here, sustained us, and gave us our most prized liberties. And we would do well to remember his child, Israel.

It seems for some Americans, we are simply getting too big for our britches! To quote Proverbs 16:18 "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." My words of wisdom for America this morning - Stop your prideful behavior before you destroy this country!" The blood of countless American Soldiers and Forefathers will be on your hands if you continue to destroy the ideology of LIBERTY their sacrifices intended. How audacious of you to feel you somehow have been given that right!

For the rest of us who still love the liberty and freedom of being an American, God Bless America! May God keep us humble and yet proud of our heritage. May we keep the Spirit of America live and fresh for our children and grandchildren to come. Happy July 4th, Independence Day!

S.B. Odom, Ph.D.

2011 is slipping away

I can't believe it is already July 1, 2011. This year is flying by. My summer is almost gone. August is too close! STOP TIME STOP! Slow down! I haven't finished my book yet! I need to reach my goal! So...I need time in order to do this.

But I will have to say I have been very blessed during the first half of 2011! I do not have any complaints of any significance. I am blessed with family and friends who love me. God has been so good to me.

Ray and I have been on a journey this year. A journey of change. It is not an easy journey to take, but we are finding our way. As Andrew's birthday nears, I am frequently reminded of him and the joy he brought to our lives for almost 10 years here on earth, and the joy his memories continue to bring us. Gideon is also moving on in his journey in life. He has had a hard year, but I see signs of growth coming, though small steps they may be. He will be transitioning to the University of Alabama this fall. Guess he won't be a 2nd generation Jag after all. But I'll live.

Life is a wonderful journey. And I am starting to see the necessity to value each and every day of my life. Guess it is a middle-age thing. I thank God every day for the opportunities he has sent my way. I pray I will keep my heart and mind open to his will and take full advantage of the opportunities he provides me.

So... at this mid-year checkup, I think we are doing quite well! More to come.

S.B. Odom, Ph.D.

My Long Lost Friend - Blogspot

Well, I guess I need to apologize to you! I have not blogged to you in months, almost a year. But I have been busy writing, I promise. Facebook sorta took your place, and for that I am truly sorry. I will try to do better. I also have a NING account I am now keeping for our Achievement Services. So, I will have to work to share my time between you all.

No matter what you teach them, please love my kids...

Reminiscing!

As I sit here today thinking about my sons, especially Andrew since it is his birthday, I am reminded of how precious children are. I don’t believe there is a mother on this earth that loves her children any more than I love mine. Not saying they can’t love them the same as I love mine, but doubt anyone can love them more. My family and I had a terrible accident in 1998, and Andrew (who was 9 at the time) was killed as a result of the accident. Yes, we were devastated and changed forever.

In one evening we went from the loud, yelling, and often screaming, rambunctious household with two boys (who were 16 months apart in age) to the single thudding sound of a lone child trying to make the goal with his basketball. Yes, as providence would have it, Gideon (our youngest) went from the baby of the family to the only living child in a split second of time.

Seriously, my husband and I probably broke every rule in the child-rearing department after Andrew’s death. I know I spoiled Gideon. I would have killed to protect him, and probably will still kill to protect him although he is almost 21, which brings me to the point of my blog. Our children in America deserve protection.

Love the kids!

I love children. I firmly believe in protecting, training, and providing for them. And regardless of whether it has been in my own home, church, or school, I have always been an advocate of children. If you want to see me get upset (and I know there are those who may read this blog who may say, “we see that enough.”) then let me see a child who is neglected, abused, or hurt because of the actions of an adult.

When I taught, I looked at every child as though he/she was my own. That included discipline when I felt it was needed. For a time, I was in a school district that allowed corporal punishment, and yes I had a paddle (actually several paddles). They were useless in reality. Kids would beg me to paddle them so they could sign THE BIG O. A few years ago my principal at the time needed a paddle (teachers were no longer allowed to paddle at this time, yet I still had THE BIG O as a reminder of the old days). He asked to borrow my paddle, so I let him. He kept it for several months, and one night some of the students broke into the school. Guess what was part of the stolen goods. THE BIG O. Wish I knew who had it. I would love to have it back to remember all my students, because they all signed it whether they had ever been paddled or not.

THE BIG O is a reminder to me that all kids want to be loved. I had said many times to my students, “I discipline you because I love you.” Well, that was important to them. They wanted to be loved. YES, even middle schoolers. They wanted you to care. If you don’t believe kids think deeply, just ask them to tell you what they think. One time I used this to start the day with my kids (not everything in my class had to be about science). I asked them to finish this old adage with their own “TRUE” ending: Sticks and stone may break my bones, but your words .... You would be so surprised to see how insightful middle school students can be. I was amazed at the responses I got from them. I have them filed away somewhere in a Word Doc. One day I will publish them.

It is my firm belief that all teachers should first love children, then their content areas. And trust me, kids can spot a “fake” from a hundred miles away. My students always knew those teachers who cared, and those who just taught for the job. And they didn’t mind telling you. They were quite observant. They could tell you who was having a bad day; who they thought was flirting with another teacher; who was getting a divorce; which teachers hated each other. If we could have just channeled all their observations into productive learning, what great minds would we have today. I would like to think that we did in many ways.

Enable learning!

Call me an enabler if you want, I hated to give a child a bad grade. I would retest, give them an opportunity to correct their answers for partial credit, extend deadlines, and do whatever it took for them to learn in my class. Why? Because learning was the point, not punishment. These are kids in TRAINING! We often forget this. We extend to children punishment and consequences that we ourselves try to get away from in life.

Kids need advocates, and they need real people in their lives. They do not need to see hypocrisy in adults. Don’t penalize them for being late on assignments, when you are late for work every day. Don’t penalize them for needing extra time on a test, when you ask for extensions on your bills or loans. Don’t scold them for asking for a grade replacement when you enter into bankruptcy or reduced payments to pay off your obligations. Be real to them.

Be the example!

If you are going to set high expectations for your students (and I did this on a regular basis), set high expectations for yourself. Don’t be mediocre and expect exceptionality from your students. Don’t expect them to “wow” you on a paper when you bore them to tears with your staged, monotone lessons. Model exceptionality for them, or don’t be surprised when you get status quo from them. I believe kids are mirror images into the souls of the adults around them. If you want better kids, be a better example.

Students all across this great country need teachers who will rise up and take charge of their learning. Do not expect society to provide the solutions; do not expect the government to provide the solutions (although their funding is nice); do not expect parents to provide the solutions. You are the highly trained professional charged with invoking student learning. DO YOUR JOB! And do it with dignity and honor. Take pride in the noblest profession on earth.

Be the change agent!

Our society is fragile. There are many, many issues which could lead to the destruction of our civilization. One thing that can help change the destructive course of a civilization is KNOWLEDGE. As teachers, you have the capability of imparting KNOWLEDGE to your students. Yet, before they will listen to you, you must have their trust. Build trust in your students. Let them know you are an adult that they can count on. Show them your weaknesses. Ask them to help you with your weaknesses as you help them through theirs. Be real to them. Love them. And provide them with the greatest opportunity in the world to be successful. That’s all I ever asked from my sons' teachers. That’s what I tried to give every parent’s child who became one of my students. This is how we overcome the challenges in our schools today! This is how we embark on educational reform in America. ONE TEACHER AT A TIME IMPACTING ONE STUDENT AT A TIME, YET CHANGING THE COURSE OF EDUCATION FOR ALL.

What Teachers Want!!

Much has been said about Mel Gibson lately. Is his professional acting career over? Well, I am sure he will always have a following. My mind did go back to a movie from a few years back, What Women Want! (2000). If you didn’t see it, the storyline went something like this. Mel (I don’t remember his movie character’s name) was struck by lightning one night, and the next day he began to hear what women thought. As a result, he helped some women, lied to some women, and stole the thoughts of the one woman so much smarter than he was, and on and on… Funny thing is that he almost lost his own mind trying to listen to what goes on in a woman’s head. I could have told him that! Men will never fully understand a woman’s thinking processes. There really is no use in trying to get women all figured out. “It ain’t gonna happen!” We are too complex! or perhaps I should say “intricately designed!”

Anyway, I liked the title, and I got to thinking about teachers. Since I am a coaching consultant for schools, I often get to tell teachers what I think should be done or shouldn’t be done to improve student learning. However, after spending 20 consecutive days with teachers this past spring, I got to thinking about a remarkable idea. I wonder if anyone ever asks the teachers what they want. What do they want for their students? What do they want for their own professional dreams? What do they want from the community? What do they want from folks like me who think they know the answers to complicated dynamics found in their classrooms? Okay, so, you know I think I have the answers, right? Of course you know I do, or else why would I write about it? There are several things I believe teachers want, and yes, I am going to eventually share them with you.

1. Teachers want to be treated as the professionals they were trained to be! (Oh my, it is time for the S.B. Odom Soapbox Speech of the night!). Seriously, think about it. Teachers spend at least 3 ½ to 4 years learning how to teach and the content needed to deliver to students. Most in today’s society continue to educate themselves through a graduate program which is typically 18 months to 2 years in length. Wait a second! That is a grand total of 5 to 7 years of post secondary training. AND the typical Medical Degree takes how long!?! When was the last time we walked into the medical doctor’s office and questioned, “Are you highly qualified to make this diagnosis? When did you have your last board test? What is the level of proficiency in your medical professional treatments of your patients? How many of your patients have died in the last year? How many unsuccessful patients did you treat? Where is the lab work from their tests? What did you do about the lab work? What interventions did you provide? Did you make all your patients take the same medications regardless of their different body chemistries?” Yeah, I think you get the picture.

I believe instead of pointing an accusing finger at the most noble profession in America, we need to ask, “What can I do to help you?” I believe we should help them develop a network to tap into the greatest intellectual “think tank” in the world. Do we dare be so audacious to think teachers cannot provide viable solutions to the educational problems today? What I think teachers want is for someone to say, “Tell me what you are experiencing in your classroom. Give me examples of the specific challenges you face, and let me see if I can help you find solutions. Let me hear what you are saying first, before I make suggestions or tell you what you need to do.”

2. Teachers want to be able to do what they are trained to do – TEACH! So when did we allow the “main thing” to no longer be the “main thing?” Teachers love to train children. Why else would they submit themselves to the scrutiny of the public all year? They want to do a great job. However, the target is forever moving. Would somebody please stop moving the target? Or, if the target just has to move, can we at least provide the teachers with the target practice they need to be successful? I often find when someone takes the time to help teachers decipher all the mandates of the state departments of education, they look at you and say, “THANK YOU! For the first time in my teaching career, this finally makes sense!”

I fully believe the reason teachers have become so dependent on textbooks is because we stripped them of their ability to lead, and told them they must follow the proven path (Not quite sure who proved it, but let’s follow it anyway! After all, Texas and California are doing it.) I have great respect for men and women who dedicate themselves to the calling of providing children with information they can translate into knowledge. However, I do not believe there is a textbook in print that can adequately teach any child everything he/she needs to know about a subject or course content area. And I believe when we follow recipes for education (textbook-driven recipes), we should not be surprised when we get status quo students (You know, like the store-bought cake mixes versus the home-made cake that is better than…Well, you know!). If we want the free thinking that made America what it is today, we need to get off the brakes and allow teachers to take hold of the throttle.

And finally (for tonight)

3. Teachers want the ability to cleanse their profession of quacks and naysayers! Had so many ineffective, non-productive people not been allowed to hide behind laws, such as tenure, the teaching profession would not be suffering the way it is today. True teachers, with passion and purpose, do not need to be driven: they are more capable of driving the educational system than anyone alive. If our government would fund excellence, cut non-productivity, and reward men and women who live to teach, the public educational system in America would not have to have legislation like NCLB overseeing its every move. When is enough going to be enough? I believe not until the passion-driven educators in this country stand up and say, “ENOUGH!” will we see a true watershed in American Education.

Once the quacks are gone, educators can then restructure American Education to meet the needs of the American people. We need a system which makes us global, specialized, differentiated, and competitive. We do not need drones. We need diversity! We need skills! I think about the building of Solomon’s Temple (about 1000 BC, or 587 BCE). Look at all the various people needed to build this magnificent temple: men to cut the great cedars; men to transport the cedars; carpenters; woodcarvers; cloth makers; dye experts; stone masons; architects; goldsmiths; bronze makers; and the list could go on for days. So, my question is, “Are we preparing our children for the 21st Century, or are we forcing them to remain in the past?” What skills do children of the 21st Century need? Are we building a stone temple? What is the next frontier? What will the future hold in terms of knowledge and technology? See, real bonafide teachers understand education must evolve with society. They understand they must produce thinkers and doers for the civilization we all love so dearly to survive. Yet, we inundate them with meaningless 2nd century paperwork. There are many people in today’s society who want to shuffle paper. Hire them to do the paperwork! Let teachers TEACH!

Conclusion to the Soapbox Speech

We all know public education has a myriad of problems. It is a complex system with an utopian ideology in a pragmatic reality. If we want our teachers to be successful, then we must provide them with the tools for success. More importantly, we need to “hear” what they are saying to us. Or perhaps they should just sit back and watch us speed headlong into Hades with all our legislation, stimulus funding for multiplied billions thrown to the wind without a plan, and oversized Band-Aids trying to hold back the existential meltdown of our educational system overseen by politicians and interest groups. Eventually, perhaps, someone will remember why the teaching profession was important in the first place and will cry out for the noble giants to come to the rescue! Maybe, just maybe, by that point, everyone else will step back, and let the educational professionals do their jobs!

Stepping down from the soapbox!

Until the next wave of passion explodes!

S.B. Odom

At Risk: Three Interventions to Abolish It

So...I've been thinking again...I was privileged to be a session presenter at the recent CLAS conference at the Mobile Convention/Riverview Center. I was asked to speak about At Risk indicators and how administrators can use their STI software to develop methods to flag and intervene for students with multiple indicators for being at risk. I had a wonderful co-presenter, Dafne Stokes. Without her, I would have been lost as to how to use the software. It has been several years since I have looked at data management software.

As I studied for the presentation, I realized that I had many "at risk" indicators in my own life. Strangely enough, I never thought about myself as "at risk" growing up. In my session, one lady asked the question, "Why did the boy I know wind up in jail, and you wind up in front of us speaking when you both had similar "at risk" factors?" That got me to thinking... (I know, dangerous...) Why did I never feel "at risk?" Three key interventions were in place.

First, my MOTHER...She had a way about letting you know she didn't allow you to be less than your best, (and it often included a trip to the peach tree.) My mom believed in rewards and punishment. If I did well, I was always rewarded; if I didn't do well...let's just say I got acquainted with the peach orchard only a few times. Thankfully I was a quick study. My younger sister, not so much...

Mom provided me with opportunities to be successful. I don't remember her studying with me too many times, but I do remember her checking my work. I certainly remember her checking my report card. Mom decided that we didn't need entertainment from television in our home, so reading became my past time. I could read a short novel in a single night. I used to read at least five books a week. I have been to many countries, and was swooned by many magical knights, princes, and cowboys. So, I am a proponent of fiction. You would be surprised how much you can learn from a great love story.

Second, my TEACHERS and ADMINISTRATORS... I remember every teacher I ever had. They all made a huge impact on my life. They were my role models, my heroes and heroines. They pushed me; challenged me; debated me; but most importantly, they cared about my success as a student. Some of them are the reasons I chose to pursue a teaching career with a science focus.

My educational experience was in a rural school without a whole lot of enrichment opportunities, but what we didn’t have in technology, we made up for in innovativeness and creativity. We may not have been able to “watch” great scientific experiments through media and technology, but we lived it. Bug collections (I can’t believe I actually euthanized all those little guys.), leaf collections (never forget the poison ivy), DNA molecules out of gum drops, and dissecting pigs while selling Krispy Kreme donuts out of the same room for our yearbook fundraiser. Yeah, probably shouldn’t divulge all that information, but hey, the statue of limitations is probably exceeded.

Finally, my FAITH… I truly believe the faith I have in God as well as myself has played an important role in my life. The purpose of this blog is not to get in a theological debate with anyone; I just know how important my faith has been in my life. I know it has been faith that has pulled me through many dark places in my life. So while some may choose to discredit its importance for them, it was critical for me.

I have also believed in myself and my capabilities. I am a firm believer in intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, self-regulated learning, and self-reflection. While I enjoy and even solicit the approval of others, I am most concerned with my own self-worth. Self-love is important. Even the scriptures admonish us to “love you neighbor as yourself.” Self-preservation is probably one of the most powerful forces in nature.

So, what keeps one person in route to success while others fail…Family, Faculty, and Faith…We should never underestimate the power of any or all of these powerful influences in our lives. What should happen if one or more is lacking? We should reinforce students with intensive help where we exist. If we are family, we should support our kids with everything we have (I try to practice what I preach.); if we are faculty, we need to individualize every student and know their limitations and risk factors; we should also believe in the possibilities for our students and ourselves.

No matter what roles we have in the lives of students, we need to recognize the importance of the role. I firmly believe every movement in the universe affects all remaining atoms of matter. What are your movements doing to the universe? What are your movements doing for the At Risk kids in your life? Make your movements count...Gently start a reaction that moves them in the right directions for their lives.

SBO

Multiple Intelligences and Branton Shearer

We had a great week in Mobile at our STIAchievement Services Summer Training. The last two days were especially great. Our guest speaker was Branton Shearer from Kent Ohio. Dr. Shearer is the creator of the MIDAS inventory for Multiple Intelligences (MI). OK, I am not the best tour guide in the world, and I took him to Dauphin Island. Not a good choice in my humble opinion. It was my first time to visit Dauphin Island as an adult. I should have taken him to Washington Co for a tour. I would have been a much better tour guide there.

Dr. Shearer did a great job with his multiple intelligences workshop. I learned so much about myself and about those around me. I cannot wait to get my certificate from him so I can begin sharing MI with others in the schools where I work. I truly believe in MI, and I know we would have better results in our schools if teachers used MI in their lesson planning more effectively.

We so often forget just how unique we all are as individuals, and as teachers, we tend to teach to those "like us". When I taught at Mae Eanes Middle School my first year as a teacher, I realized students had MI. When we utilize the fact that our students have MI in our classrooms, more learning can take place.

I believe the reasons I had the success I enjoyed with my students are directly related to the fact I understood a simple concept: Children are different. Children think differently. Our teaching should reflect those differences. Dr. Shearer validated so much of what I had believed and implemented as a teacher with his studies. Most funding sources today ask for Scientifically-research-based strategies. Well the MIDAS is scientifically based. He has thousands of profiles and many studies to prove the MIDAS has value and predictability on the MI of children and adult students.

However, like most educational strategies, the key is not in the profile itself. The key to the success of using MI profiling is to actually change instruction and student behavior based on the information the MIDAS provides.

I loved one of the quotes from Dr. Shearer's workshop. "It is not HOW SMART ARE YOU? but rather HOW ARE YOU SMART?" That is the question we should all be asking ourselves and our students. How are you smart?

Oh well, I have to call my mom and see if she will give me some of her flint rocks. Keep you guessing, unless you were at the workshop. Until next time... SBO

Standards-based Instruction

Standards-based Instruction

In my recent travels, I noticed something which intrigued me and caused me to start to think. I know…Dangerous! I continue to hear the rhetoric concerning standards-based instruction. Comments such as “We need to teach children more than simply what is required.” and “My students need to know more than what is on a test.” I concur! However, it would be a huge improvement if the students in trouble did learn what was required and exposed to what will be on the state-mandated assessments.

I started thinking about the term “standards-based instruction”. I think it has become antiquated. I do not believe it continues to carry the power it once had. I think a new term is needed to stir up excitement among educators. I have recently studied the progression of standards throughout the K-12 educational program of several states. There seems to be a huge disconnect between grade-to-grade instruction. While educators seem to understand the particular standards, grade-level expectations, student indicators of instruction, etc…, they are supposed to teach, it appears the educators do not see their particular assignment as a single point on the continuum of the students’ total education.

The topic of “Math Facts” always comes up in discussions with math teachers. Have you ever heard this statement? “They do not know their multiplication or division facts; therefore I spend most of my time teaching my students those essential skills.” Forget the fact I probably don’t even know all my multiplication facts well enough to take a timed test, with an Associates, Bachelors, three Masters and a Ph.D. I couldn’t possibly be successful if I have forgotten what equals 7 x 8. (By the way, I always hated 6 x 9 and 7 x 8!) These math facts should be replicated year after year for memorization. Yet, you should not have to spend 6 weeks on them each year. I know: I’m on the proverbial “soapbox”.

Back to my thoughts…Standards-based Instruction…BORING Title… What could be done to stimulate our senses? What is a word? What about “progressive instruction?” Never mind…I “Googled” it; and Progressive Education is already taken. I have heard the terms “vertical” and “bridging”; and yet, they just do not seem to capture the essence of what I believe an education is supposed to complete for a student. What about Gradient Instruction? Positional Instruction? I guess I will have to think on the topic more. However, I do believe we need to connect the dots in education. We do not have yearly standards that are stand-alones. There are progressive measures in place whether we acknowledge them or not.

You know, when you think about it, learning a phone number is a relatively simple task (such as a math fact). However, if I don’t use a particular number for quite some time, I find myself forgetting it. Think about all the passwords you need for your computer and programs. How many times have you had to reset the password because you forgot? OK. I guess it is just me. The point is students and math facts are a lot like me and my passwords…Out of sight, out of mind. Yet, all I need is a reminder or a pattern in order for me to remember what I chose. Oh yeah, one of those questions!!! OK. Leaving the “math facts” soapbox for good!

I have much to say about the “Universal Screener” soapbox I have recently developed, but that will have to wait until another time…For now, I want a new word! I want to capture the essence of a child’s journey through his or her education. So, I will begin my thinking session now…What about you?

S.B. Odom, Ph.D.

Thinking today...Imagine that...Purple Cows... (Say What?)

When I travel, I almost always forget to pack a book in my purse to read on the airplane. Most of the time, this is not a bad thing. I can catch up on much needed sleep. I do often wonder if I snore, since my husband tells me I am quite the snorer at home. On my recent trip to Indiana and Michigan, I decided to visit the book store in the airport at Atlanta on my departing flight and the book store at Detroit on my return flight. I bought Purple Cow: Transform your business by being remarkable by Seth Godin on the first flight; and I bought Shut up, Stop whining, and Get a life by Larry Winget on the returning flight. Both were entertaining to say the least.

I think for today I will talk about Purple Cow... As I perused through the books in the little book shop, this book caught my eye. On the front cover there is a picture of a purple Jersey or Holstein (I can't ever tell the difference.) and the book is purple and white (like the cows). Yes, it caught my eye...Great marketing strategy on Godin's part. The book is all about marketing your products and services such that people will notice and buy. The whole jist of the book is to make what you have to offer REMARKABLE (a.k.a the Purple Cow!). I haven't finished the book yet. (I forgot to tell you how ADHD I can be. I am the world's worst person to start something, then lay it down to move on to something else.) However, from the first 100 pages (currently on page 101), I think I understand. I need a Purple Cow! (I certainly hope my husband does not read this and think it is approval for him to try to go buy one. He loves to buy cows, and while a Purple Cow is what I need, it is not what HE NEEDS. He will not understand the metaphor!)

As Chief Academic Officer (CAO) for STIAchievement Services, it is my responsibility to make sure our little division has a Purple Cow. What can make us unique? Where is our niche? What do we have to offer that is remarkable? These are the questions that began to bombard my mind as I tried to read through the Purple Cow. I find my mind very distracting when I am trying to read. It won't "Shut Up!" The thoughts just keep on coming. It even has a bad habit of doing this when people try to talk to me. It is really rude. However, these thoughts just kept coming concerning STIAS. Here are some of the analogies I came up with as I compared Godin's thoughts to my thoughts. (Yes it is a little scary!)

"Tastes like Chicken" isn't a compliment!! (Godin) Wow! what a cool quote... So, if our Achievement Services just "tastes" like the other meats out there (consulting and coaching entities) then we really haven't done anything worthy of notation. Hmmm... something to think about and "chew on" (keeping with the cow analogy here.) Godin talks about Ideaviruses and Sneezers in his book. STIAS needs a lot of ideaviruses and then sneezers to spread them. So, as CAO, I got to thinking about our ideaviruses...what do we have to "spread" through the sneezers? Whatever our ideaviruses are, they have to be...REMARKABLE! I know what I think our ideaviruses are, but the truth will come to light when I see how well they are "sneezed".

CHEATING (Godin) All the big guys are doing it...(i.e. JetBlue, Starbucks, Vanguard, Amazon.com, Google, Wendy's, HBO) They are not "playing by the rules" (Godin), so what about Achievement Services... I like the old cliche' "all's fair in love and war", and I'd like to add "all's fair in love, war, and business!" I never really saw myself as a business woman before until now. I was always in public education, and as all public educators know, we work freely without thought of profitability. Not so in the business world... However, now that I have seen the "other" side, I will have to say it is not always as rosy as it seems, and there are a lot of people "cheating" (a term we educators hate). So, now for the first time in my life, I am considering the concept! (OK, maybe not the first time.) I am considering "throwing out the rule books" and finding our "purple cow".

The problem with the Purple Cow is FEAR... (Godin) I love the cliche' "I ain't skeered!", and Oh, yes we are... We are always afraid of what others will think. We question ourselves all the time. What if I do this? or What will they think of me if I do that? To quote my mentor Patsy Sheffield, "Sometimes you just have to put on your big girl panties and do it." Be fearless! Courageous! If they aren't noticing you now, what will be the problem if they don't notice your purple cow, or if they do notice it and talk about you. At least they will be talking. According to Godin, negative criticism can prove to be equally as motivating and important as positive criticism. A virus is a virus... And it spreads... So, stop the "Fear Factor" and put yourself out there. Build (or birth) your Purple Cow!

Safe is Risky (Godin) Since the inception of AS, we have been following the leaders...Staying in formation like a bunch of Canadian Geese flying south (Godin), but it is time to be Risky! We need to break formation and develop our own ... say it out loud...say it with emphasis...PURPLE COW! So what if no one else is doing it. As much as I love research... it is always OLD... By the time you actually read research, the moment has past and something new and vibrant is needed. BE THE RESEARCH! When I left tenure from Mobile County as a science teacher to become a school improvement specialist in Choctaw County, I was practicing RISKY BEHAVIOR... But it was one of the most rewarding adventures I have ever done. I have lifetime friendships because of that particular move. When I left the public educational system and retirement for the private sector with no promise of tenure or security, it was RISKY BEHAVIOR, but I love it. (Not sayin' I have absolutely no regrets, just sayin' I love my new risky behavior!) I made a promise to myself that this year (the 41st year of my life) I am going to push myself to go beyond the normal for me. I have officially entered the mid-life crisis era of my life, and I WANT CHALLENGE! I want to live! I want a thrilling life full of RISKY BEHAVIOR. And my job has taken me up on my challenge! For AS, we need to take risks in order to be successful. If we only do the status quo, we always will be faced with others who have more resources and who can do it better. So, forget the status quo! Let's go WHITE WATER RAFTING! (I know this is not a cow analogy, but it is risky!)

Well, I have talked enough about my dream for a Purple Cow today. I need to actually start working on it. I welcome your thoughts and comments!


S.B. Odom

Curriculum Maps

I have been working tonight, with one of my colleagues, on a template for a curriculum/instructional map. I have looked at many different templates and examples, and the more I look, the more uncertain I am of what needs to be included in the map. Basically, I would like to create a single sheet of paper with as much information as possible available to teachers in a given instant.

I think the best model is the old "KISS" model. Recently at a coach's training conference, the attendees and I tried to come up with a better slogan for the "KISS" model. I think the best I heard was "Keep it simple, Sugar!" Anyway, a simplistic model is really best. And that is the model we plan to use with our clients this week.

Key elements of a map: Grade, Course, Timeframe, Standards, Vocabulary, Instructional Strategies, Information from High Stakes test, % Mastery

We will also collaborate with the clients to make sure they have "buy-in". We will see how well tomorrow takes its course.

Until next time...

SBO

My First Blog

I am creating a new blog which I will begin to use to post my research in American Public Education. Educating students is my passion, and I want to be able to provide educators with solutions to the problems which plague our educational systems in America.