NOVEMBER 2002 Winner for PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS

Award www.EDUCATIONUPDATE.com Volume VIII, No. 3 • New York City • NOVEMBER 2002 Winner FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS

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CCHANCELLORHANCELLOR JJOELOEL KKLEINLEIN U.S. POSTAGE PAID VOORHEES, NJ Permit No.500 RR STD. PRSRT 2 Award EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ NOVEMBER 2002 Winner

GUEST EDITORIAL EDUCATION UPDATE children entering high school fail to graduate. ed by the budget cuts. Where will the money Silent Fall But not to worry. The mayor says New York’s come from? The mayor should not attempt to Mailing Address: are the best of the nation’s large-city schools. “solve” the city’s financial problems by faulty 276 5th Avenue, Suite 1005 By STUART DUNN Small consolation. accounting. We have seen too much of this by New York, NY 10001 A great deal has been made of the fact that It is not that we don’t know how to fix the Fortune 500 companies and the Federal email: [email protected] this year school opened with a peace that has problem. The New York Times reports that at PS Government. www.educationupdate.com not existed for a number of years. Mayor 138, a predominantly black and Hispanic Instead of peace in the school system we Tel: 212-481-5519 Bloomberg has gained the authority over the school in Crown Heights, close to fifty-five need war on illiteracy, innumeracy and the sta- Fax: 212-481-3919 schools that has eluded former mayors. The percent of the students met the state standard in tus quo. Instead of silence we need the chan- controversial Board of Education has been math this year, as compared with only nineteen cellor to articulate objectives and define pro- PUBLISHER AND EDITOR: abolished. The mayor has appointed his own percent last year. What was the secret? A com- grams. (The recent announcement of the pro- Pola Rosen, Ed.D. schools chancellor, and the chancellor has won mitted principal and teaching staff, longer gram designed “to leave no child behind” is a the right to select superintendents. The UFT, school days, and special attention to students start, but only a start.) We need an outcry for ASSOCIATE EDITORS: still celebrating a contract granting significant who were lagging behind, paid for by funds the funds needed to do the job. We need to Heather Rosen, Adam Sugerman, salary increases with few concessions, is silent. provided by the district superintendent. But, identify the revenue sources and economies Rob Wertheimer All is well–or is it? unless things change, rather than replicating the necessary to provide these funds. The appoint- ASSISTANT EDITOR: The public school system remains deeply PS 138 results, things are likely to get worse. ment of Caroline Kennedy as Chief Executive Marie Holmes troubled. While governance changes and Leadership is needed from the top down. of the new office of Strategic Partnerships is teacher satisfaction were needed, these will Motivations, other than personal satisfaction, good news, but, the private sector cannot be PRODUCTION MANAGER: only be meaningful if they work toward for principals and teachers to succeed must be expected to make up the shortfall in funding. Rick Sulz improving the children’s education. Just how provided. Funding must be added to support Governor Pataki cannot be permitted to coast GUEST COLUMNISTS: bad are the schools? State officials have identi- the extra programs. The city’s school funding through a reelection campaign without being Mayor Michael Bloomberg, B. J. fied thirty percent of New York City’s schools has been cut by $100 million this year, and a held accountable for his failure to fund NYC Carter, Dr. Geraldine Chapey, Matilda as failing to meet English and mathematics further reduction of $350 million is expected schools adequately or equitably. The endorse- Raffa Cuomo, Heidi Fisher, Dr. Carole standards. Despite some improvements, the next year. And, the shortfall is far greater than ment of the Governor by the UFT, and other G. Hankin, Ruth Hupart, Randi T. performance of the city’s school children that. The school population is growing, with unions, illustrates just how cynical and self- Sachs, Assemblyman Steven Sanders, remains dismal. Recent test results still show increasing numbers of children entering school serving the unions have become. Kara H. Stein less than one-third of the 8th graders meeting lacking English proficiency. Almost $1 billion The mayor and the chancellor cannot be per- STAFF WRITERS: standards in math. Schools and classrooms are is needed to fund teacher salary increases, new mitted to pass the buck on who is responsible Jacob Appel, Joan Baum, Ph.D., overcrowded. Problem children are ware- hires, teacher training, staffing shortfalls and for making the schools work. If we do not fix Kim Brown, Tom Kertes, housed in special education from which they after-school programs. School officials tell us the schools now, the pressure to privatize will Katarzyna Kozanecka, Adam Kushner, hardly ever escape. Over forty percent of the that the instructional budget will not be affect- continue to grow. It matters not that private Mitchell Levine, Sybil Maimin, Merri schools have not proven themselves capable of Rosenberg, Chris Rowan, Andrew doing a better job; desperate people will seek LETTERS Schiff, Neil Schuldiner, Deborah Young desperate solutions. We must not permit a To the Editor: one (preferably female) to instruct my 9-year- silence to exist in education this fall. The BOOK REVIEWERS: I want to take this opportunity to thank you old daughter on the acoustic guitar. Or even achievements of the past year were not ends in Harris Healy, III, Lillian Shapiro, for meeting with me and writing such a won- suggest places/publications I might look at. We themselves but means to an end. The hard part Selene Vasquez derful article. It was a pleasure [sharing] my live in Manhattan. has just begun. # COMICS: vision for Teachers College. I look forward to via e-mail Francis H. Brummer, Bruce Wotring working with you on the challenges ahead and hope for a future filled with good work by us [Ed. response: Call the Manhattan School of IN THIS ISSUE MEDICAL EDITOR: Herman Rosen, M.D. all. Music, Juilliard, and the School for Strings. All Editorials & Letters...... 2 Darlyne Bailey, Ph.D. are in Manhattan and have a roster of fine Spotlight on Schools ...... 3-12 MODERN LANGUAGE EDITOR: VP for Academic Affairs musicians.] Teachers of the Month ...... 13 Adam Sugerman and Dean of the College Special Education ...... 14-15 Teachers College, Columbia University Aresponse to Parents Respond to Suicide: MOVIE & THEATER REVIEWS: Music, Art & Dance...... 16-17 The Jed Foundation Tries to Save Lives Jan Aaron MEDICAL UPDATE ...... 18 Aresponse to MUSIC EDITOR: Books ...... 19 How The Constitution Works for Students To the Editor: Irving M. Spitz I am very interested in providing students on Cover Story ...... 20-21 To the Editor: my campus with the safety net. Thank you. Children’s Corner ...... 22 POLITICAL COMMENTARY: A few years ago Nassau BOCES worked Adele Museums As Educators...... 23 Stuart Dunn with Constitution Works. Is it possible to send via e-mail College Directory ...... 24 SPORTS EDITOR: information on your programs? We have con- Colleges & Grad Schools . . . . 25-28 M.C. Cohen Calendar of Events ...... 16 ferences for students 4-5 graders, 5-6 graders Aresponse to AWord with Jesse WEB DESIGN: and 7-8 graders in the spring and are looking Sheidlower, Lexicographer, Oxford U. Press Technology & Education. . . . . 29-30 Neil Schuldiner, Rick Sulz, for new programs to be presented at our events. Marketing Supplement ...... 31-33 Tamara Wiesen J. Tomeo To the Editor: Homeschooling ...... 34-35 Nassau County, New York I enjoyed your article. Film & Theater Reviews...... 36 ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: Do you have an e-mail address for Mr. Sports ...... 36 Martin Lieberman, Manager. Rosalyn [Ed. note–this message was forwarded to the Sheidlower? I’d like to send him a few words, Modern Languages ...... 37 Bacani, Steve Bailey (212) 721-9444, Constitution Works in Manhattan] as opposed to ham sandwiches. MetroBeat ...... 38 Dawn Clayton, Mitchell Levine, Chris Will Doak Careers ...... 38 Rowan, Andrew Schiff To the Editor: New York, NY Tutors ...... 38 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: I was wondering if could help me find some- Resource & Reference ...... 39 Neil Schuldiner, Rick Sulz, Tamara Wiesen

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FROM Winner POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Silver Hill Hospital of the Education Update Best P.O. Box 20005 Mental Health Excellence in Education NY, NY 10001 Subscription: Annual $30. Media Award Journalism, 1999—2000 Business Copyright © 2002 Education Update 2000 Columbia University Teachers College, Phi Delta Kappa Dr. Pola Rosen Award NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS SCHOOL 3 Enough Already! Healthy Children, Healthy Futures By JILL S. LEVY number of us now earn less than the people we By MATILDA RAFFA them to create compelling messages to encour- supervise; some do not know whether their CUOMO & B.J. CARTER age their peers to do the same. These health mes- The Council of School salaries for this year will be based on 10 months To enable children to have a sages by and for children and in the format of Supervisors and Administrators or 12 months. successful school education, posters, billboards, radio, TV and/or internet (CSA) members–public On top of this, we are dealing with the new there must be an active part- spots, will be reviewed by peers and then dis- school principals, assistant UFT contract and its implications for our mem- nership with the home, school seminated to other children through a variety of principals, supervisors and bers, including provisions like the extended day and the community. A child’s school-based and community-based (CBO) net- day care directors–have been patient, profession- that profoundly affect our jobs. And for all CSA life is centered for most of the day in the school works. al and persistent in trying to get their respective members, the workload ceaselessly piles up as environment. Those children who are at-risk of There are many additional factors that may employers–the City of New York and Mayor Department of Education bureaucrats clear their failing their subjects, dropping out of high make urban children at increased risk for obesity. Bloomberg–to come to the table with serious computer desk-tops of e-paper and forward it to school, or have unhealthy eating habits with no Fewer children in central cities participate in proposals and negotiate a contract. Now, both principals in a flow that would put Niagara Falls exercise, need to have a mentor as soon as possi- sports and physical activities than those who live Department of Education members and Early to shame. ble to give them added support, guidance, and outside of central cities. According to a report by Childhood Center members are angry. And with Unlike the Department of Education contract encouragement. the U.S. Census Bureau, 26.3 percent of children reason. Their contract expired in March 2001. talks, it would be difficult to say that the day care The community has a responsibility to respond aged 6-11 years old living in central cities partic- Four months have passed since the United contract talks have stalled because the city hasn’t to the needs of children. We know that public ipate in sports as compared to 39.6 percent out- Federation of Teachers’(UFT) contract, which even begun serious bargaining as of this writing. awareness and concentration to improve our chil- side central cities and 33.5 percent in non-metro- expired before ours, was negotiated. One would Even though Mayor Bloomberg has taken on the dren’s health is strongly needed in these turbulent politan areas. Concerns about crime may be a have thought that good management, bargaining responsibility of our educational system and has times. All of us should be concerned about chil- major barrier to becoming more physically active in good faith, would have come immediately to told the public to hold him accountable for edu- dren’s health and address the issue of overweight for some children. Parents of color are twice as the table with a serious desire to talk with school cating our children, he has absolved himself of and obesity. likely to report their neighborhoods as unsafe, leaders. So, we waited patiently and profession- responsibility for the City’s day care/early child- In 2001, Strang Cancer Prevention Center, the and parents who have a lower opinion of their ally, the way our members would expect us to hood directors, who are among the lowest paid oldest cancer prevention institute in the United neighborhood are less likely to have their chil- behave. professionals with some of the largest responsi- States, partnered with Mentoring USA, the dren participate in sports. It would have been futile to bargain with the bilities in our city. largest site-based program in New York City and In reality, a majority of Americans are not reg- previous city and Board of Education adminis- It is unfortunate that this administration does the first mentoring program providing mentors ularly active, and there has been a rapid increase trations. Those leaders were lame ducks, who not seem to understand the importance of early for foster care youth. Strang and Mentoring USA in prevalence of overweight and obesity among showed little or no interest in their school and education for our most fragile and needy chil- joined forces with the MetLife Foundation and the U.S. population, particularly among children. day care leaders. We would have wasted precious dren; without such early intervention, they are currently implementing Healthy Children This is a major public health problem, particular- time and energy. So we waited for the new require intensive and expensive educational Healthy Futures, an initiative intended for under- ly because of its persistence into adulthood. Chancellor to be appointed and a new gover- interventions upon entering our public schools. served young people, ages 9-12, in three of our Last year, former Surgeon General, Dr. David nance structure to be implemented. The true sign of management’s regard and val- country’s larger urban areas–Atlanta, Los Satcher, in his “Call to Action” urged communi- We expect this administration to make good on idation of its employees is through the collective Angeles, and New York City. In addition to the ties and schools to join forces to provide pro- its public statements in support of school leaders bargaining process where the needs of both sides program materials for facilitators and children, a grams to improve physical activity and provide who overwhelmingly bear the weight of respon- are respectfully discussed, passionately argued training manual was developed by Mentoring healthy food alternatives. That is just what sibility for the success of schools. Words without and ultimately resolved in a mutually agreed USA and used in the training program for the Healthy Children Healthy Futures is doing.# action are hollow indeed. upon contract that goes to membership for ratifi- program site facilitators this past summer. The Matilda Cuomo is Founder and Chair, While we have engaged in a few preliminary cation. What message are we getting?# initiative provides children in ten after-school Mentoring USA. B.J. Carter is Director of the collective bargaining meetings, subcommittee Jill Levy is the President of the Council of settings with the opportunity to learn about Child Health Initiative at Strang Cancer meetings, formal and informal discussions, a School Supervisors and Administrators. healthy eating and physical activity and motivate Prevention Center.

1-800-ABC-MATH www.kumon.com ■ ■ 4 SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS EDUCATION UPDATE NOVEMBER 2002

800 Parents “Learn the Law” at Annual United Parents Association Conference The Dwight School By TOM KERTES There was one thing crystal clear about the 81st Anniversary Conference of the United The Dwight School is a coeducational, college preparatory school pro- Parents Association (UPA): its purpose. “I know viding a traditional, individualized, and challenging course of study. why you’re here,” Steve Sanders, the chair of the Assembly Education Committee, said in his Dwight offers the highly-regarded International Baccalaureate Programs opening remarks. “You’re here because you care in Grades K through Twelve. about public education and the 1.1 million stu- The Dwight School is comprised of families from the Greater New York dents attending public schools in New York City. and international communities, and we enjoy an excellent record of col- “We–those interested in serving, benefiting, Supt. W.L Sawyer receives an award from lege placement. and improving public schools–are going through UPA V.P. Deborah Walker-Dudley a particularly difficult time right now exactly because there is an array of strong, powerful by the Board of Education last June 19. “For the FALL 2002 OPEN HOUSES forces out there who want to divert our public tax first time ever, there is an official acknowledge- This is an opportunity to tour The Dwight School and to meet money in order to serve the interests of private or ment on paper–in fact, in contractual form–of the Chancellor Stephen H. Spahn and the Admissions Commitee. parochial education. importance of parent involvement,” she said. “Now there’s nothing wrong with private “Truth is, research shows that the best schools are schools–but we all know that, no matter what the ones where the parents are profoundly Grades K - 4 Grades 5 - 8 Grades 9 - 12 happens, the reality remains that 80-90 per cent involved. So this document aims to change atti- November 5, 2002 November 14, 2002 November 6, 2002 of our children will go to public schools,” tudes, first and foremost. Parents now must be Sanders added. “So our commitment must be to welcome in schools, instead of being looked November 7, 2002 November 21, 2002* November 13, 2002 doing anything possible to support and improve upon as a necessary inconvenience. Schools now November 12, 2002 December 5, 2002 November 20, 2002* public education.” must develop specific communication plans. On November 19, 2002* December 12, 2002 December 4, 2002 UPA, the advocacy group consisting largely of the other hand, now it becomes our responsibili- parents involved in PTAs, school leadership and ty to educate ourselves on the details, and learn November 26, 2002 December 11, 2002 other parent groups, profoundly believes that how and where and whom to communicate with December 3, 2002 “the best parent is an informed parent,” accord- in the most effective manner within your child’s December 10, 2002 ing to conference participant Juliana Alvarez, school.” who has a 14 year-old son on the honor roll in The day’s other most popular workshop was * Quest Brooklyn’s Thomas E. Dewey High School. “An aimed at educating participants on the small print all-day meeting such as this serves as an excel- in President George W. Bush’s “No Child Left All open houses begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at approximately 10:15 a.m. lent tool for parents to get informed –and get Behind” federal legislation. In particular, “we They are held at 291 Central Park West and are for prospective parents. even more involved.” must gain an understanding as to which schools The 700-plus attendees, though generally are entitled to Title I funds under the law,” said Areservation is required. Please contact the Admissions Office at enthusiastic about the new laws giving the mayor Ailene Thompson, Chairperson, Title I, Region (212) 724-2146, ext. 1 or at [email protected] to reserve your place. the power to run public schools–and prohibiting 2. “It must be a SURR school, or a school desig- the cutting of public school funds in order to bal- nated for improvement, and/or corrective ance the budget–exhibited understandable confu- action.” Title I entitles these schools to Federal sion, and an enormous hunger for information, funds for supplemental services such as after- throughout the days’ workshops. “We can no school activities and tutoring. “But, in order to longer afford to just sit back and complain,” said benefit from the funds, the particular children Robin Brown, co-chair of the Chancellor’s also must be below a certain income level,” Advisory Council. “Those days have passed. warned Thompson. “So we must be careful. That is no longer the conversation. We now have “Look at the details. Study the law. Get on the to inform ourselves on the issues, ask ques- Department of Education website (www. tions–and then do whatever we must to get satis- NYSED. gov), do your research, do whatever factory answers.” else you need to do to get informed. The servic- Brown led the important “Parent Involvement es are out there. But, without a doubt, the more Policy” workshop, informing participants about you know about the law, the more your child will the most salient points of the new policy passed have a real chance to benefit from it.”# THE MORE HIS GRADES DROP, THE MORE YOUR HEART SINKS.

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DIPLOMATS DISCUSS TERRORISM AT BRANDEIS HS

By MARIE HOLMES “9/11, regrettably, changed everything,” Mr. Yneth Murillo. “The U.N. is supposedly Recently, students gathered in Brandeis HS’s Biggar told the students, adding that their gen- an organization of the world, not the sprawling auditorium on the Upper West Side eration would be forced to take account of ter- U.S.” to attend a panel discussion entitled, “A Global rorism in “a way that no other generation ever “The U.S. should not jump the gun on Response to Terrorism: the U.N.’s Role.” The had.” terrorism,” added fellow student Shirley event, organized by Brandeis’ Model U.N. club Speakers addressed various issues related to Prudoth. While admittedly frightened by and the United Nations Association of the terrorism and international relations, including the turn of global events in the past four- United States (UNA-USA), the nonprofit the difficulty of defining terrorism, the role of teen months, students expressed consider- organization which facilitates Model U.N. the U.N. and the current conflict between vari- able faith in the international communi- activities, featured speakers Kouroush Ahmadi, ous U.N. member states and the U.S. regarding ty’s efforts to combat terrorism. Counsellor for the Permanent Mission of the planned action against Iraq. A few students did voice concerns that Islamic Republic of Iran; Maurice Biggar, First The students, several of whom stated that as the U.S. government and the U.N. Secretary for the Permanent Mission of Ireland; their course requirements had allowed little deliberated, terrorist groups were plan- Kevin S. Kennedy, Principal Officer of the class time to discuss current affairs, were ning further attacks. Executive Office of the Secretary General; and nonetheless able to respond to the panelists’ “As teenagers,” Crystal Tejeda summa- Jeffrey Laurenti, Executive Director of Policy presentation with questions ranging from rized, “we all see that the world is not all Panelists with Brandeis’ Model U.N. Studies at UNA-USA. speakers’ views on the United States’ relation- flowers and peaches.”# The discussion was moderated by Bradford ship with the U.N. Security Council to the role Billet, Deputy Commissioner for the U.N. of freedom of the press. Consular Corps and Protocol. Mr. Biggar, who also noted that the U.S has U.N. Day, the occasion which had drawn the not signed the convention establishing the speakers, was described by Mr. Kennedy as “a international criminal court, “and would not day when some papers were handed over to the appear to wish to do so,” stated: “The position U.S. government,” specifically, the last ratifica- of my government is whatever action is taken tions required to create the international entity. in the end must be taken by the security coun- Contrasting the global situation of 1945, the cil.” The other panelists concurred; Mr. year that the U.N. came into being, and today, Ahmadi went so far as to call the Bush admin- Mr. Kennedy encouraged the students to view istration’s cries of preemptive strike and regime Join New York City’s the work of the U.N. as “an evolutionary change “erroneous concepts.” process,” of supreme importance, albeit “not Many students shared these views. “I think largest volunteer program very thrilling.” the U.S. is really influencing the U.N.” said dedicated to helping public school children. Call (212 ) 213-3370 www.learningleaders.org

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With “Love & Play” as the main focus, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 • 2 - 4 PM children are introduced to language, math, art, music, sport and simple spiritual principles of goodness. 307 Hungry Hollow Road Chestnut Ridge, NY • Rockland County Please contact us to request an application: 845-356-2514 • For directions: ext. 156 12 East 79th Street, New York City (212) 744-7300 Est. 1950 • Chartered by NYS Board of Regents • Member NYSAIS www.abrahamlincolnschool.org NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS SCHOOL 7 In Praise of Homework By DOROTHY A. HUTCHESON ing into the lobby well after morning drop-off Independence, Integrity, Achievement. Homework has been much in the news. Last with missing assignments in hand, I wonder year several articles appeared about the hopeless who’s learning what? The sky would not have drudgery of it all, the astronomical amounts fallen in if that English assignment were not Come see the Academy difference. assigned to even young children, and the back- handed in, and the well-intentioned parent is rob- lash brewing among parents in high-achieving bing his/her daughter of an important lesson. school districts who were fed up. I am often In the Middle School, teachers give weekly Founded in 1884, Staten Island Academy is an independent, college asked to defend Nightingale’s homework policy syllabi so that students begin to balance long- preparatory school educating students from pre-kindergarten through (is it too much?) in sessions for prospective par- range and nightly assignments. Beginning in high school. Whether in the classroom, through community service, ents, a surprise because in previous years parents Class VI, when girls take six academic subjects, on the playing fields or theater stage, the Academy difference shines wanted to know if we were asking students to do teachers work together on a schedule so that a in every student. enough. student does not have homework in all six sub- For upcoming Admissions Open Houses, call 718.987.8100 At Nightingale we ask parents to be in a part- jects nightly and so that her tests and major writ- nership with us, to help us know your daughters, ten assignments are spaced accordingly. We try STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY and to support the school’s academic standards. not to give them more than they can handle suc- One of Nightingale’s “Goals for Parents” specif- cessfully. This is all part of a careful foundation 715 Todt Hill Road, Staten Island, NY ically tackles the subject of homework by asking that provides students with www.statenislandacademy.org parents to “establish schoolwork as a priority at experience in managing home and provide time and space for study.” The things themselves. If all goes idea is to help girls become increasingly confi- well, students will be ready dent and independent in taking charge of their for each new step of increased academic work. Clearly this isn’t an easy or independence. automatic process, as I frequently hear teachers Every September I tell new complain about parents doing too much and their parents to step back and avoid students doing too little. Mrs. Mansfield in the the tendency to micro-man- Lower School wonders whose homework it is; age their daughters’ inevitable Mrs. Kingson in the Middle School refers to the bumps along the way at “hidden hand” on student assignments, and in the Nightingale. When a child Upper school, Ms. Mann reports an increasing comes home with a prob- incidence of parents, not their daughters, calling lem–with a teacher, a friend, to complain about specific assignments. or an assignment–avoid the All of this comes in a context of our anxiety tendency to rush in and fix. that our daughters are over-scheduled with activ- The parent’s first response ities and deprived of the luxury of being bored, a should be to listen carefully topic that Anna Quindlen so eloquently described and then ask, “What do you in a Newsweek column, “Doing Nothing is want to do to handle this?” Something.” Many of us recall our own child- Whether the girl is 6 or 16, hood filled with a lot more time on our hands. this technique works because • An academic expense account of $7,500 over Maybe it wasn’t really all that simple then, but, you signal to your daughter The City University of New York’s Honors College like Sorensen, I am hard pressed to recall my par- that you have faith in her abil- each year accepts a select group of outstanding four years to pay for academically enriching ents paying much attention to my term papers or ities and that things aren’t freshman students – we call them University experiences such as study abroad, and living math homework. always perfect. Scholars – to participate in a unique and challeng- expenses during unpaid internships How do we move from that excitement of the On the homework front the ing program. As a University Scholar, you’ll study • A Cultural Passport that provides free or dis- first grader eagerly announcing that she has same strategy works. Pull with our outstanding faculty and participate in counted entrance into many of New York City’s homework to do (her weekly spelling lists and back if you are too involved. renowned cultural institutions – including nightly reading) to a weary ninth grader sagging Give your daughter the time seminars that focus on the vast resources of New under the weight of her far-too heavy backpack, and the space and your confi- York City and combine cultural experiences with museums, concerts, theatre, opera and dance telling me in the halls that she didn’t get much dence in her own abilities. academic study. The seminars will also give you a performances sleep last night? Are we assigning too much? Keep the long-term goal in behind the scenes look at theatre, the arts, politics, • Internships with leaders in government, busi- Nightingale’s homework policy is simple and mind–an intellectually curi- science and business. High quality of scholarship ness, science and the arts straightforward. In the Lower School students ous and self-reliant young is a CUNY tradition, a formula for success since are learning how to learn, and part of that means woman–even as you negoti- managing to do some assignments at home and ate the daily ups and downs 1847. CUNY alumni include eleven Nobel Prize win- managing to bring them back to school. It’s not and wonder if she’ll ever have ners, distinguished teachers, business leaders, supposed to be perfect. We expect that there will the maturity to be on her own. University Scholars also receive: executives, scholars, judges, editors, composers, be bumps in this process as students forget papers As for my house, I’m looking • Full tuition scholarships including college and singers, actors, elected officials and leaders in at home or crumple them in their backpacks and forward to a better weekend.# course fees every field. This is the rich heritage of today’s fail to put them in the folder on the teacher’s Dorothy A. Hutcheson is CUNY. We invite you to learn more about our desk. Nightingale should be a safe place to make Head of the Nightingale- • A free laptop computer mistakes, recover from them, and start over the Bamford School in faculty, our students and our Honors College. next day. When I see Lower School parents rush- Manhattan. We invite you to study with the best at The City University of New York. Ask Dr. Rosen stigma attached–labels! To obtain an application, email the Honors A new column answering A proud Dad of five special parents’, educators’ and stu- children, looking for any sign of College at: [email protected] or call dents’ questions about spe- hope there is out there. 1-800-CUNY-YES. And visit our web site: cial education, in response to -Sky Anderson cuny.edu/honorscollege. the flood of letters and e-mails we have been receiving at Education Update. Dear Sky, Your son is fortunate to have Dear Dr. Rosen: you as an advocate. You have the We are in the process of trying to right, under federal laws, to have get our 10 year-old son included in your son attend classes in the regular education. The special ed. least restrictive environment. You classes have not helped him to read or are also entitled to due process if write and he is just beginning to talk. the appropriate classes are not We have been fighting for Assistive provided. I suggest that you first Technology for years. It looks as if this work through the school’s Special year he’ll be given such a device. Ed. Committee and principal to He understands everything that is said achieve your goal before seeking to him; however, he has Down’s a legal remedy. Syndrome, so that comes with a big -Dr. Pola Rosen, Ed.D. ■ ■ 8 SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS EDUCATION UPDATE NOVEMBER 2002

Bright children, with or without ADD, who psychologist, detects and corrects the deficiencies struggle with schoolwork often have deficient that block learning. VIP students have improved visual processing skills as the underlying problem. their learning skills by 3 years within 10 weeks in Observe your child for these signs: many cases. And this is without medication. 1) Avoids reading, eye strain, restless. This is often “Vision processing includes scanning, focusing, caused by focus disorder or problems with eye visualization, and other visual functions, which teaming. means a child may have standard 20/20 eyesight but poor visual skills,” states Dr. Henry 2) Loses place while reading or uses finger to Ettinger,director of a local VIP. “Volumes of suc- follow. Omits, inserts, or confuses words Poor cess stories include children going from failing or control of eye movements will bring this result. special ed classes to honors as a result of vision 3) Slow or sloppy writing, incomplete work. This processing training.” can be the result of poor eye-hand coordination. A VIP PARENT 4) Slow or choppy reading, poor word recognition RECENTLY COMMENTED ... or spelling, reverses letters, poor reading comprehension. This is often the result of poor Dr. Ettinger assists student with “We were at our wits end. Our daughter was eas- visualization. a processing speed procedure ily distracted and was at risk of failing. Handwriting was messy. Homework became an RELIEF FROM FREE EVALUATION all-night burden. Now her improvement is HOMEWORK FRUSTRATION The VIP provides free comprehensive screenings remarkable. She loves to read and write now like and free consultations. It’s a wonderful never before. Her self-esteem has soared and The Vision Improvement Program (VIP), a opportunity for parents to determine if poor family time together has improved. Your pro- nationally-known vision processing program vision processing is affecting their child’s learn- gram is literally a God send.” developed by an optometrist, an educator and a ing. Call the Manhattan office, (212) 265-4609. -Lillian Sanchez-Perez

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INSIDE THE SUPERINTENDENT’S OFFICE Rose Albanese-DePinto, Senior Superintendent of High Schools By MARIE HOLMES Bronx, with another nine scheduled to open pass five exams with a score of 65 or above in As Senior Superintendent of high schools, next fall. Looking at graduation and drop out order to receive their diplomas), DePinto rec- Rose Albanese-DePinto knows that, in New rates, says DePinto, “the greatest need was in ognizes that it is unreasonable to expect all high York City, building space is worth its square the Bronx.” school graduates to go on to college. footage in gold. Having spent a year at 110 “We’re really looking to strengthen all of the Career and technical education schools, as Livingston, home of the now defunct Board of high schools in New York City,” she says, “so vocational schools are now called within the Education, she’s also appreciative of her new that there are high schools of choice in all the Department, are “dually challenged,” she says, workspace in the renovated Tweed Courthouse. boroughs.” since students must prepare for the Regents “Have you seen our cubicles?” she asks visi- The theme-based small schools model (“the exams at the same time that they complete tors, proudly leading them into a large room ideal size . . . is 500 to 600 students”) is, their technical training. “These sequences are with high ceilings where over a dozen people according to DePinto, “what parents and, real- quite rigorous and they require a lot of time. sit typing and talking on telephones in small, ly, what children want.” It’s also the only model These kids are there nine or ten periods a day, shiny desks, separated from one another by low that New Century grant recipients are allowed if not more, because they have this dual partitions. to follow. responsibility.” The corporate-inspired enthusiasm and com- As for the themes, which range from straight- DePinto affirms her commitment to making petitiveness instilled by Mayor Bloomberg and forward ideas like dance and business to the the technical schools into schools of choice as Chancellor Klein is palpable in the shared more lofty ‘global education’ and ‘social jus- well, challenging the public perception of them offices and open conference spaces. The rooms tice’, DePinto asserts, “the bottom line is that as “dumping grounds” for poor students. Of the are literally abuzz; no conversation is private. Superintendent Albanese-DePinto these are academically rigorous high schools.” 18 technical schools in the city, several applied “Here it’s easier,” says DePinto. All of the “There should be evidence of [the theme] in for the new state certification to grant diplomas high school superintendents work in one room, all the core curriculum,” she explains, “in addi- in specialized areas. Nine programs have now and the Chancellor is on the same floor, so the teacher’s union, New Visions for Public tion to having a very special sequence of cours- been approved for certification, and DePinto when DePinto needs to speak with him, she Schools and the other sponsoring foundations, es,” as well as internship opportunities, guest expects that another nine will be approved by says, “I just run into the office.” “forged the agenda for high school reform.” speakers and the like. the end of the year. DePinto started out in the schools as a teacher Together, they are responsible for the opening ‘Lead partners’–corporations, non-profits Specialized instruction, coupled with aca- of Spanish and Italian. She served as Principal of an astounding 28 new high schools this past and universities–have pitched in as well, offer- demic rigor in a small school setting, DePinto of William Cullen Bryant HS in Queens, then September. ing internships and other opportunities for stu- believes, is the key to improving New York as Deputy Superintendent of the Brooklyn and The city, of course, did not construct 28 new dents. City’s high schools. Staten Island high schools. When the Carnegie, buildings. The majority of the new schools are Three schools were opened on CUNY cam- “I was principal of a very large school. I Gates and Open Society foundations gave the housed in existing high school facilities. Martin puses. High schools at CCNY, Lehman and loved my school; however, I know that I lost former BOE $30 million over a year ago, ear- Luther King, Jr. for example, is being phased York colleges, which admit students based on kids. Not all of my kids graduated from my marked to reform the city’s high schools, then- out. After 2005, students will graduate from their Specialized HS Admissions Test scores, school and that really disturbed me.” Chancellor Harold Levy brought DePinto on either the MLK HS for Law, Advocacy and allow students to complete the credits neces- The new schools, she says, all boast 93 per- board to head the effort. Her current responsi- Community Service or the MLK HS of Arts sary to earn their diplomas in three years, using cent attendance rates or above. bilities also include training and supervising the and Technology. Roosevelt, Taft and Morris are their fourth year to take college courses. After all, before the city’s students can be six high school superintendents. similarly being carved into smaller, theme- Even in the face of new standards imposed by taught to ace standardized exams, fix a com- A core team, says DePinto, composed of rep- based academies. No Child Left Behind and increasing Regents puter or dance in toe shoes, they have to walk resentatives from the Department of Education, Ten of the 28 new schools are located in the requirements (the class of 2005 will have to in the door–and then want to come back.# + – x LEARNING ÷ LET THIS BE YOUR YEAR FOR UNPRECEDENTED SUCCESS IN ACTIVATING = YOUR STUDENT’S NATURAL GIFTS FOR LEARNING ARITHMETIC AND ALGEBRA! # Rescue your students from fear and failure in mathematics by • providing explanations that actually make sense % • eliminating excessive memorization and rote learning • showing them how to use their minds to learn its concepts and skills ∞ • understanding how to activate the same competence for the learning of stories and one’s native language, ≠ in order that they will learn mathematics just as naturally and effectively ∑ This program is, by far, one of the most tried, tested and proven mathematics interventions in the nation whereby: • kindergarten and first graders have achieved mental mastery of all addition/subtraction facts • first graders have mastered the reading of whole number numerals up to hundreds of trillions and instantly named the value and place value of each digit ƒ • second graders have mastered multiplication facts, multiplication (two or more digits by one digit) and long division • fourth/fifth graders have mastered “seventh grade math” ∆ • whole classes of fifth/sixth graders have surpassed, by far, the performance of ninth graders on statewide Algebra I exams. √ Professor B Enterprises, Inc., ∫ PO Box 2079 Duluth, GA 30096 ■ ■ 10 SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS EDUCATION UPDATE NOVEMBER 2002

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November 15, 2002. Application deadline: December 1, 2002. GRANTS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS www.braitmayerfoundation.org/guid.htm www.wallacefunds.org/programs/ventures.cfm A new monthly column to help school superintend- enhance the education of K-12 children. The Ventures in Leadership The NEA Foundation’s Arts@Work Grant ents and principals get additional funding much Foundation is particularly interested in curricu- Ventures in Leadership is funded by the Program needed at a time when school budgets have been cut. lar and school reform initiatives, professional Wallace-Reader’s Digest Funds and is designed The Arts@Work grants encourage public sec- to support innovative ideas in education leader- ondary school arts specialists to collaborate Braitmayer Foundation development opportunities for teachers, and local community efforts that increase educa- ship from a wide range of communities, espe- with technology savvy educators and the busi- The Braitmayer Foundation supports organi- cially those in low-income neighborhoods. ness community to develop examples of tech- zations and programs from across the U.S. that tional opportunities for students. Grant requests of up to $10,000 should be submitted by Eligible projects include a school developing nology-integrated arts curricula that meet high the technology to support data-driven instruc- standards for student achievement. This pro- tional decision-making. Awards range from gram is supported in part by a grant from the $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the size of the National Endowment for the Arts. Application submitted budget and recipients will have up to deadline: March 3, 2003. www.nfie.org/pro- two years to implement their leadership idea. grams/artsatwork.htm CCI THE RENAISSANCE SCHOOL CCI The Renaissance School, a semestered and co-educational boarding high school, has become a unique source of high quality education, preparing students for university/college entrance in the U.S.A., U.K., Canada and Europe. Learning and living at CCI unfolds in Italy, home of the Renaissance and the starting point of today’s knowledge-based civilization. The town of Lanciano is an ancient-yet-modern, well serviced small city of 40,000 located in the region of Abruzzo, beautifully situated between the Adriatic ocean and the Appennine Mountains and provides a safe, friendly and charming environment for the students to live and learn. Students directly experience antiquity, the middle ages, the Renaissance and modern Europe, both formally through regular organized trips with the school and informally, through daily life in a modern town sensitively aware and conserving of its more than 3,000 year history. Classroom and book learning, upon which the school places high value, is dramatically enhanced when students are learning in the very places where the events being studied occurred. Students follow a challenging, university-preparation academic curriculum, including Mathematics, Computers, Classical Civilization, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Social Science, English, Art and Drama. All courses are taught in English, except for Italian and French languages. The school offers high school courses in grades 10 through graduation as well as Advanced Placement (University/College preparatory) courses and students may enroll for a single semester or for up to three academic years. CCI selects its professional teaching staff, who all possess the required teacher’s qualifications, for strength of commitment to, interest and previous training in their subject areas. They are also chosen for strong teaching capabil- ity, devotion to students’ needs, interests both in and outside of school hours and their willingness to assist and lead in the extracurricular life of the school. Since the school began, student awareness of and response to this professional interest and personal dedication has been very evident, and rewardingly expressed in sustained, and occasion- ally totally re-born, student commitment to studies and academic excellence. CCI The Renaissance School’s mission: To inspire students through rigorous teaching and sensitive collegial mentoring, to actualize their highest intellectual and moral potential, and become fully ready for effective university study and responsible adult life, while living communally at the historic center of our modern civilization. For more information: www.ccilanciano.com, e-mail–[email protected], 1-800-422-0548. NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ TEACHERS OF THE MONTH Award 13 Winner

Linda Brown de Vial the United Federation of Teachers. Lower Manhattan Outreach Center Far from creating tension with school leader- Elizabeth McCullough, Principal ship, Principal Brittenum praises Mrs. Martin’s OUTSTANDING work with the UFT, saying, “With her as a part- Linda Brown de ner in education, we succeed at P.S. 140Q.” Vial is a sixth year science teacher at the TEACHERS Harlene Schwartz Lower Manhattan PS 250, Brooklyn Outreach Center, an OF THE MONTH James Quail, Principal Alternative High School program which serves stu- The Outstanding Teachers of the Month for November 2002 have dents between 17 and each been nominated by their colleagues, students, parents, principals 21 years of age who and superintendents. Education Update has selected six nominees for have experienced interruptions in their academ- their outstanding work on the “frontiers” of education. ic careers resulting in their transfer from their home schools. Congratulations to this month’s Outstanding Teachers of the Month When asked, “Why science?” Linda’s articu- in recognition of the vital role they play in our childrens’ lives. lation testifies to her sense of wonder and passion about the natural world. “The rewards of immersing oneself in science are more durable, comforting and con- founding than maybe all other human endeav- Laura Reyes Dina Cundari ors. I came to science because I love animals PS 86, Bronx I.S. 78, Brooklyn and because, when I’m really low, the immen- Sheldon Benardo, Principal John DiFiore, Principal sity, grandeur and even the indifference of Ms. Harlene Schwartz is an English as a nature takes me away from myself and my Ms. Cundari has been a dedicated teacher of Second Language teacher at PS 250. She gives petty concerns.” mathematics at Roy H. Mann I.S. 78 since freely of her time and talents for the children in In addition to her dedication, sense of pur- September 7, 1999. During this time she has her school, working feverishly to make each pose and warmth, Ms. Brown de Vial is the consistently demonstrated an outstanding devo- child feel important and successful. Over the quintessential team player. There is not a single tion to her students and to her school. past years, standardized test scores and meas- task that she is above or a hurdle that she will Due to her eager and conscientious nature, ures of academic growth in E.S.L. have been not attempt to overcome. She touches the lives she has been an integral part of coordinating impressive, serving to substantiate Ms. of students and staff as well as an assortment of and supervising such events as her school’s Schwartz’s knowledge, skills and talent. classroom animals–lab rats, crayfish, snakes, Buddy Program and Open House. Thanks to Ms. Schwartz also coordinates a staff devel- turtles and one disoriented bat that found its Ms. Cundari’s outstanding organizational skills opment program at her school. The fact that she way into her room one night through an open and excellent rapport with her supervisors and gives up her weekends to attend conferences window. colleagues, both these programs have become that she recommends to others serves to prove more and more successful each year. that real professionals lead by example. In Ena Gordon-Powell Ms. Cundari has demonstrated an outstanding summary, Ms Schwartz possesses all the char- P.S. 241, Brooklyn devotion to her students and to her school. acteristics of an exceptional teacher.# Derek T. Jones, Principal Maggie Martin P.S. 140, Queens Education Update honors teachers Before becoming a teacher, Ms. Reyes was a Elaine Brittenum, Principal each month for their outstanding work mother of two, a hairdresser and a vocal advo- on the “frontiers” of education. Students, cate for her community. She was encouraged to parents, principals, superintendents and attend college, graduating Magna Cum Laude colleagues may nominate teachers by from Lehman College in 1992. At this time, she describing, in one or two paragraphs, was working as a bilingual paraprofessional. what is “special” about them. In June, we In 1993 she took a position as a third grade will invite the teachers, principals and bilingual teacher. Immediately, Ms. Reyes superintendents to a luncheon to cele- impressed the families and her colleagues. She brate their achievements. Please include immersed herself in learning methodology, a photograph with each nomination. which enabled her to be on the cutting edge of Teachers are the backbone of our edu- curriculum development. She enrolled in grad- cational system. They richly deserve the uate school and quickly earned a Masters in recognition that Education Update Bilingual Education. Over the next few years, plans to give them. lines of parents would arrive at the school in Dr. Pola Rosen August demanding that Ms. Reyes be their Publisher child’s teacher. Her reputation grew not only in the community but also in the school. Teachers Please email recommendations, with Ena Gordon-Powell was born into a family of sought her out for advice and her classroom leaders. Her father was Dean of Journalism in became a laboratory for teachers throughout the photographs, to: [email protected], or Montego Bay, Jamaica, and her mother man- district to visit. mail to: aged the parts department of a car dealership. Several years ago she became a Staff Education Update, Mrs. Gordon-Powell pushes her students to the Developer, meaning no more class but the 276 5th Ave. Suite 1005, limit, believing that their comportment and aca- responsibility to teach teachers. Ms. Reyes’s Mrs. Maggie Martin is the Teacher of the New York, NY 10001 demics must be of the highest standard. The early morning study groups became hotbeds of Month at P.S. 140. She is a dedicated Title 1 welcome on her classroom door reads, learning and discussion and parents soon joined teacher and an asset to her school. She has “Welcome to Class 3-415 where only dignified the groups. However, Ms. Reyes believed that teaching talent, ambition, energy and initiative. behavior is acceptable.” the opportunity to affect children’s lives lay in More than cooperative when assigned extra Mrs. Gordon-Powell gets excited when her being a classroom teacher and asked to return activities, Mrs. Martin frequently volunteers to DUCATION PDATE students score the highest level on annual city- to her previous assignment–an unheard of cover teacher’s classes when an emergency E U wide reading and mathematics examinations request in the New York City system! This past arises. She shows a sincere interest in her stu- is a seven year-old and goes the extra mile to prepare students for summer Ms. Reyes participated in BETLA, a dents and is constantly searching for innovative award-winning the tests, holding practice sessions at 7:30 a.m. statewide initiative for exemplary teachers that ways to make her teaching of reading interest- in the months before the exams. Last year, six- investigates best practices for English ing and more informative. newspaper with 200,000 teen of her students scored the level 4 on the Language Learners. Her return to the classroom Mrs. Martin loves responsibility and thus readers in New York City CTB Mathematics. has been more than successful and once again wears many hats, such as: chairperson of the and 1.5 million hits per month Mrs. Gordon-Powell is an active participant this August dozens of parents pleaded for a seat Finance and Operations Team, chairperson of in the life of PS 241. She works hard and long in Laura Reyes’s classroom. the Career Day committee, chairperson of the on our website: and is willing to extend her workday whenever School Safety committee, member of the www.EDUCATIONUPDATE.com she is called upon to do so. As a teacher, she A great teacher can truly School Leadership team, member of the exhibits the highest standards in the profession. influence your life! District Leadership team and chapter leader of 14 SPECIAL EDUCATION ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ NOVEMBER 2002

Arc of San Diego Recognizes Community Leaders DR. POLA ROSEN GIVES KEYNOTE SPEECH AT AWARDS CEREMONY Picture a modern low-slung building sur- are 170 consumers and 67 staff members pro- Achievement Award. rounded by flowers and palms. As you enter the viding services ranging from getting consumers The Arc has a total of five cen- cheerfully decorated interior, several remark- paying jobs in CalFed banks and the local ters in San Diego with a staff of able programs for developmentally disabled marine base to working on site packaging prod- 850 providing a spectrum of serv- adults are taking place. One group is learning to ucts used in industry (for example metal parts ices from birth to adult. In addi- cook which includes shopping and choosing the for pool tables) at a $7 per hour wage, to learn- tion to parent-infant development, ingredients. In another large, well-lit room, a ing activities of daily living. Collaboration day training, vocational training client is rewriting the Landerman Act in braille, within the community is key. For example, and community employment serv- while others sit at computers reading or playing teachers from San Diego Community College ices, the Arc also provides respite games. This is only one of the many facilities teach computers at the facility. Covell has gar- services to families traveling to organized and operated by the Arc for the ben- nered the Outstanding Director Award for his San Diego who need a place to efit of special people in San Diego. Executive accomplishments at the Arc. leave a developmentally disabled Director C.E. Skip Covell knows the $20 mil- A number of community leaders have been relative for several hours, while lion organization well, having worked there for very supportive to the work of the Arc. Jon taking brief recreational time for the past 25 years beginning with his volunteer Kurtin, a San Diego attorney and pillar of the themselves. For more information Ned Lee, Dr. Pola Rosen, Phoebe Chongchua, C.E. days in college. community, has generously supported the Arc about the Arc of San Diego: Skip Covell At this site, one of five in San Diego, there over the years and recently won the Lifetime www.arc-sd.com.# Extraordinary Resources for Special Children NEW: AFTER SCHOOL AND MORE: After School, Weekend and Holiday Programs for Children and Youth with Disabilities and Special Needs in the Metro New York Area Education doesn't end at the classroom door. Includes more than 400 programs for enrichment, fun, and socialization for children with learning, developmental, emotional or physical disabilities and special needs throughout the five boroughs. Information on ages, disabilities served, area served, program hours, staff/child ratio, medication, transportation and more. The perfect resource for parents and professionals. ADD / ADHD 240 pages, $25.00 + $7.00 postage and handling ISBN 0-9678365-5-7 Available at local and on-line booksellers, or direct from: Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc. Learning Disabilities 116 East 16th Street/5th Floor New York, NY 10003 Call 212 677-4650 Fax 212 254-4070 Depression, Anxiety Or visit www.resourcesnyc.org

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Organization & Time Management Skills - Take control of your time and environment. Manage your day more efficiently, accomplish “I was advised to settle for something less, but kept searching. When I visited Crotched projects more effectively, organize your home or office and control Mountain there was a tangible difference in attitude- a professionalism, respect, and paperwork and clutter through personalized and “do-able” systems “can-do” attitude that set them apart. Standards are high and the approach genuine – they and strategies. really care! I am very happy with Crotched Mountain and most importantly, so is my son Individual sessions by appointment. Home and office visits available. Jared. He has grown enormously in many ways and is becoming the young man that I always thought he could become. It’s a family’s dream come true!” –Kathy Berns Consultation & Case Management - Knowledge empowers! Crotched Mountain School Children’s Specialty Hospital Individual help, education and suport for such issues as Behavior n Special Education, K-12 n Sub-acute rehabilitation Management, Education/Employment Rights and Advocacy, n Vocational Services n Post-surgical care Medication and Treatment Options, Working with Doctors, Therapists, n Day & Residential Programs n Respite services Educators, etc. Individual sessions by appointment. Serving families since 1953 The A.D.D. Resource Center, Inc. New York City: 646-205-8080 For more information, call 800-966-2672 One Verney Drive, Greenfield, NH 03047 Westchester/Connecticut: 914-763-5648 • Email: [email protected] www.crotchedmountain.org email: [email protected] Hal Meyer, Director • Programs since 1993 NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ SPECIAL EDUCATION 15

Phi Delta Kappa Sponsors Panel of Experts to Discuss DOES YOUR CHILD WORK SLOWLY? Bright children who lack concentration, avoid reading, make careless errors, reverse letters, forget what was just Changes on the Horizon for Special Education read, often have deficient vision processing skills as the underlying problem. Vision processing includes scanning, By MARIE HOLMES point of some contention. her response to Fogarty’s address at Pace. focusing, visualization (ability to picture information in the mind) and other visual functions, which means your child Within the evolving field of special educa- The New York City Department of “There have to be expectations and accounta- may have standard 20/20 eyesight but poor vision process- tion, the ramifications of President Bush’s No Education, is in the process of implementing bility,” she said, adding that these expectations ing. The difference is critical. Child Left Behind legislation are felt acutely. the inclusion model throughout the need not be “unrealistic.” “I think it’s a funda- Recent studies show these processing skills can be dra- When President Ford signed into law the city’s schools. Linda Wernikoff, Deputy mental right of children to have a standards- matically improved (three+ year gain in 10 weeks in some Education for Handicapped Children bill (94- Superintendent for Special Education based education.” cases) with vision processing training. The Vision 142), establishing that children with disabilities Initiatives, explained that New York City’s As for those students labeled ‘special needs’ Improvement Program (VIP), a nationally-known vision processing program, provides relief from schoolwork frustra- were entitled to the same free, public education schools had been asked to volunteer to experi- in order to secure funding to provide them with tion. The 10-week program consists of sequenced goal-ori- as all other children, only 33 states were pro- ment with inclusion models. “Change does not services, or, as several speakers lamented, sim- ented activities that the child accomplishes with one-on-one viding such services. happen because you mandate change, so we ply because of their skin color or economic sta- supervision. Volumes of success stories include A.D.D. chil- This legislation was not a result of the Ford started very slowly,” she said. The goal is to tus, the standards and accountability espoused dren going from special ed classes or failing to honors as a administration’s good intentions, explained have in place a “continuum” of services avail- by No Child Left Behind, it is believed, can result of vision processing training. VIP has citywide locations. In the Manhattan office, Dr. educator James Fogarty to a group of teachers able, without requiring the students that need save them from being under-educated. The dan- Henry Ettinger and staff provide a free comprehensive and other education professionals at a Phi Delta them to change classrooms. “The new continu- ger, according to Jill Levy, President of the screening and free consultation. Call 212-265-4609 or visit Kappa lecture program held recently at Pace um really returns special education special edu- Council of Supervisors and Administrators, is www.nyvision.org for more information. University. The law, revamped in 1997 and cation to services and not a place you send the that more severely developmentally disabled now known as IDEA—the Individuals with child,” said Wernikoff. children will be hurt in the process. Disabilities Education Act—followed a lawsuit The individual needs of schools must be “I have a grown son who came through the Are you a parent, educator, (Penn vs. ARC). taken into account, she stressed. “When it system before 94-142,” she told the audience. Up for legislative review this year, IDEA has comes to inclusive education, it’s not going to At the time, there were no services available to student or adult with three central tenets: least restrictive environ- work if it’s just the special ed people.” disabled children in New York City. Levy was questions about ment (the impetus for the inclusion movement), Kathleen LeFevre, Director of Instruction for told to institutionalize her child, and she did. full appropriate public education and due District 75, which serves special needs children Thanks to his mother’s determination to seek special education? process, to ensure that the local school board is in occupational therapy centers, hospitals, spe- out the proper supports, Levy’s son was able to providing students with services that meet cial schools and schools within schools succeed. He now works and lives independent- Address your queries to our these standards. throughout the five boroughs, oversees the edu- ly with his wife, also developmentally disabled. new column: Ask Dr. Rosen. While there are more services available for cation of 21,000 students, most of whom, she “Today, my son would be a failure,” said Dr. Rosen has a doctorate in persons with disabilities ages 3–21 than per- said, have “severe disabilities.” Approximately Levy. “Although he has a high school diploma haps ever before, leading educators continue to half of these students take standardized assess- and feels pretty successful, he never would special education from debate how exactly the State should provide ments, with the other half taking part in the have met the Regents exams.” Teacher’s College, Columbia disabled children the education to which they state’s alternative assessment program. The Levy proposed the creation of an ombuds- are legally entitled. alternative assessments allow educators to doc- man’s office, citing a total lack of “independent University and has worked General consensus seems to favor the inclu- ument a student’s progress in a variety of ways. advocates for children.” with children and adults for sion model, where special education students In the examples on the district’s website, pho- “We have to listen to the people who have over 30 years. are brought, as much as possible, into the gen- tographs of a child using coins to make pur- been there,” she said, “and we have to be very eral education classroom. The extent to which chases prove numerical literacy, while copies careful about what we believe is best for some- Email: [email protected] general curricula should inform special instruc- of worksheets and student writings replace body else.”# tion, however, particularly in light of mandated reading exams. Fax: (212) 481-3919 increases in standardized testing, remains a LeFevre voiced no opposition to testing in 16 MUSIC, ART & DANCE ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ NOVEMBER 2002

DISNEY GIVES SCHOOLS Mary Lou Retton Starts “Flip Flop Shop” FIRST-CLASS TREATMENT When you let your students discover the wonder and joy Mary Lou Retton gained inter- both physical growth and social development of Disney on Broadway, we’ll make the experience unfor- gettable! This school year give your students a day to national fame in the 1984 skills through lessons brought to life by Mary remember by taking advantage of Disney’s educational pro- Olympic Games by becoming Lou, five costumed characters and a cast of gram, which provides schools with special rates for groups the first U.S. woman to win the children in the Flip Flop Shop, a fantasy play- of 15 or more for Beauty and the Beast, Aida and Lion King. In addition, because we know that you want to provide Gold Medal in the all-around room. The show features visits to the fruit bowl the necessary adult supervision, Disney gives educators women’s gymnastics competi- to help children learn that fruit is not only good one free ticket for every 15 purchased at all three shows. tion, and by winning more to eat but also good for them, and the Gallery, Flexible policies allow teachers to pay in full 2-3 months before the performance. Disney invites schools to dedicate medals than any other athlete at an art wall that showcases paintings created by an entire day to the theater and to enhance the group’s the ’84 Games. Mary Lou’s latest children around the world to introduce viewers experience by taking a historical tour of the New project, besides being a mother to art. As in most children’s shows, this one has Amsterdam Theater the morning prior to the performance. Built in 1903, the New Amsterdam has long been the crown to four, will be acting as host of many original songs, forty in fact, throughout jewel of Broadway’s theaters. After a two-year restoration “Mary Lou’s Flip Flop Shop,” a the 13 episodes. All this done in order to teach process that led to the theater’s re-opening in 1997, the new educational show airing on important life lessons to children while encour- theater now hosts Disney’s Tony Award winning musical, The Lion King. The New Amsterdam Theater is the perfect PBS stations across the country. aging them to lead active, healthy lifestyles venue for events ranging from 15 to 1800 people. The the- The show’s 13 half-hour, live- through “creative movement.” ater and its two historic rooms, The Ziegfeld Room and the action episodes, aimed primarily The show is created by Shannon Kelly, Mary New Amsterdam Room, can accommodate everything from Mary Lou Retton and cast at preschool and elementary chil- Lou’s husband, and is produced in their home- a full production to an intimate candlelight dinner. For more information please call Amy Andrews at 212-282-2907. dren between ages 4 and 7, teach town of Houston, Texas. Almost all of the 97 We will help teachers arrive to the theater prepared. For cast and crew members are from the Houston every show, Disney has developed study guides that help area as well. Mary Lou herself also serves as teachers develop projects, discussion and activities. And, for those students who always have a question after most Co-Executive Producer for the show. This is Wednesday matinees, members of the cast, orchestra or the first PBS children’s series to be filmed in crew are available to appear for special Q & A sessions with high-definition wide screen format. # students. Students can also enjoy discounts on Disney on Broadway souvenir merchandise, as each member of your group will receive a merchandise coupon for great savings at the theater. Teachers can also arrange special lunch savings at McDonald’s Times Square location, which, with seat- A Multi Media Educational Tool Kit for K - 5 ing of over 2000, specializes in school groups customized I N S T I T U TCD I O NROM, A L P Lesson U R C H A SPlans, E O R MusicD E R S CD's, W E L C Video, O M E Vocabulary for any budge. Finally, groups save on Gray Line New York bus charters, as special Disney promotional rates are avail- For Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, Physical Education able. For more information or to book call 212-703-1040 or 1- 800-439-9000, fax 212-703-1085, email An " approved" teacher's resource - fabulous, interactive creativity ! [email protected]. Or visit www.disneyonbroad- Written by Professor Linda Rubin, University of Alberta, Canada. way.com.

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Profiles in Education Muriel Silberstein-Storfer: Art Educator, A Legend in Her Own Time By SYBIL MAIMIN started with 2 classes a grams, hospitals and rehabilitation centers. “Hands-on art is where it all starts,” explains week and today, thirty Mrs. Friedman is the program director, acting Muriel Silberstein-Storfer, revered art educator years later, brings her as school liason. She meets with principals and who created the immensely popular Parent- skills and passion to 8 classroom teachers for orientations, discussions Child Studio Workshops at the Metropolitan groups of three to five of curriculum and professional development Museum of Art and founded the non-profit out- year olds and their accom- training.Classrom teachers do the projects reach organization, Doing Art Together. If panying parents, grand- along with the children in six to 24-week pro- human beings had not created art, there would parents, or caregivers. In grams, which include a museum visit and a be no art today, she reminds those who regard it many cases, the classes school exhibition of their work. The success of as expendable, a luxury for the rich. Art is a have become a family tra- these initiatives, together of the publication of necessity in life, and it is for everyone. dition and children, when their book Doing Art Together in 1982 led to Explaining the hands-on philosophy of her grown, bring their own the recognition of the Doing Art Together workshops, she quotes an old Chinese proverb, children to the workshop. organization as a valued asset to the field of art “What I hear, I forget; what I see, I remember; One mother is currently education. The book is a step-by-step guide to what I do, I know.” attending with her fifth replicating the Met workshops at home or in Silberstein-Storfer learned to communicate child, having already other settings. A CD-Rom for children, “look through the arts at a very early age and credits shared the art experience what I see,” followed in 1997. her art instructor and mentor at Fieldston High with the other four. That to Muriel Silberstein-Storfer “life and School, Victor d’Amico, with teaching her that “The class is disci- art are inseparably entwined” is seen by the “disciplined art skills and aesthetic awareness plined, structured, and many roles she plays in the city’s art world. could enhance every area of life.” “He changed joyous. It is not play- She is a community trustee emeritus of The my life,” she says. She majored in Theater time,” explains Silberstein Metropolitan Museum of Art and sits on its Arts, studying costume and scene design, at -Storfer. Children and education and borough relations committees. Carnegie Tech, now Carnegie Mellon parents sit on separate She was a long-time member of the Art University, and afterward, while attending a sides of the room and Commission of the City of New York, the parent-child workshop with her three young work individually. They agency that reviews all art and architecture on children at The Museum of Modern Art’s learn to use materials, public land, and currently is on its Associates Institute of Modern Art, which was headed by tools and imagination and Muriel Silberstein-Storfer executive committee. She received the presti- d’Amico, discovered the power of interactive to communicate through gious Artworks 2000 Art Educator Award from shared experiences and the wisdom of her men- the non-verbal language of the New York City Art Teachers Association tor’s conviction that parents must encourage art. The class begins with a demonstration and tion, Silberstein-Storfer established Doing Art (NYCATA). She sits on many boards and com- sensory awareness and creativity to help their discussion; for example, how various brush- Together in collaboration with her colleague, missions and has received numerous awards. children grow. She became an instructor at the strokes can create different feelings and envi- art educator/studio instructor Electra And you can still have the pleasure of learning MOMA Institute and after it closed in 1970 ronments. By working diligently, the parents in Askitopoulos Friedman. They acquired the from her in her classes, from her book, or by continued to teach at various venues discover- the room convey to their child the serious cooperation of the Board of Education and the watching her CD-ROM.# ing that her methods were effective whatever a pleasure of “doing art.” They learn art vocabu- Metropolitan Museum of Art. The mission of For questions about Doing Art Together, call student’s background. In 1972 she was asked lary and working procedures to use with their this not-for-profit organization is to foster 212-650-2512. For information about classes by The Metropolitan Museum of Art to organ- child at home, and they have fun. “hands on” art courses in schools and social at The Met call the membership department at ize parent-child workshops for members. She In 1982, wanting to reach a broader popula- service agencies, including Head Start pro- 212-570-3753. New York City • NOVEMBER 2002 FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS • 18

KEYS TO BEATING BREAST CANCER: AWARENESS & EDUCATION By MARIE HOLMES “Breast cancer survivors tend to go through lation from patients’ experiences. skin-sparing and areola-sparing mastectomies that On the eve of New York City’s annual Race phases,” said Langer. “Dread, panic, disbelief, Dr. Rache Simmons, Professor of Surgery at Simmons regularly performs improve cosmetic for the Cure in Central Park, a fundraiser so suc- anxiety, and finally, I think, the emergence of a Weill Medical College of Cornell University, also outcomes by leaving plastic surgeons with a mold cessful that it has practically become a national tremendous sense of strength and belonging, even presented hopeful news about new advances in to reconstruct the breast’s original shape, often event, women gathered at the Hotel Pierre on though this is the last club you had wanted to join.” surgical treatments. Simmons and her colleagues, with fat and skin taken from the abdomen. Manhattan’s East Side to hear about recent Citing the successes of women’s fight against who use a simple needle biopsy to diagnose Simmons photographic evidence seemed to developments in the treatment of breast cancer the deadly disease—the most common form of breast cancer, are currently investigating a simi- persuade the audience. One patient, only 25 from speakers representing non-profit, surgical, cancer among U.S. women—Langer reported lar treatment for cancerous growths. A needle, no years old when she was diagnosed, had obvi- pharmaceutical and financial perspectives. that the government now devotes $700 million a larger than a matchstick, is inserted into the ously been out in her bathing suit after the sur- In the fight against breast cancer, it seems, year to breast cancer research, significantly more breast, where tiny wires then attach to the tumor, geries; the photograph revealed her tan lines. the two most powerful weapons are education than a decade or so back, when women began to destroying it with heat. Another promising proce- Simmons strongly believes that “a reconstruc- and money. realize that government funding for their health dure uses the same technology to freeze the tion is important for a woman of any age.” Salomon Smith Barney, which hosted the concerns seemed woefully inadequate in com- tumor, destroying the cells’ structure but leaving Despite advances in treatment and surgical luncheon, presented an achievement award to parison to other research grant monies. the DNA inside the body, providing a vaccine- procedures, early detection is still a woman’s Amy S. Langer, Executive Director of the “Seventy percent of women are now involved like protection against recurrence. Simmons best protection. NABCO recommends that all National Alliance of Breast Cancer in screening,” said Langer, “but for us the clock reported that this technique has already been used women over the age of 20 have their breasts Organizations (NABCO), a national informa- is ticking. Every three minutes a woman in this to treat benign tumors, “and it works beautifully.” examined by a doctor or nurse every year and tion and education service (the Komen country is diagnosed with breast cancer.” Due to advances in screening–only 2 percent of do monthly self-breast exams; women over 40 Foundation, in comparison, focuses mainly on Such statistics paint a bleak picture, yet patients are diagnosed with end-stage breast can- should have a mammogram each year as well as fundraising for scientific research). A 17-year Langer assured the audience that there was rea- cer, with 70 percent diagnosed in stages 0 or an annual breast exam by a doctor or nurse and breast cancer survivor herself, Langer, like son for hope, both for finding a cure and 1–fewer and fewer women (20-25 percent, accord- should continue to examine their breasts every other speakers that afternoon, drew the paral- because “it’s a different breast cancer than it ing to Simmons) are faced with the prospect of month. Visit www.nabco.org for more informa- lels between cancer survivors and New Yorkers was for our mothers.” Public awareness, she mastectomy, which can, as Simmons illustrated tion or to sign up for their free e-mail reminder after the attacks on the World Trade Center. said, has helped to alleviate the shame and iso- with a slide, have horribly disfiguring results. The service for mammograms and breast exams.# New Comprehensive Gastrointestinal White Coat Ceremony at Health Center To Be Established At Mount Sinai School of Medicine New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell The New York Presbyterian Hospital announced Searching for the lat- plans to establish the Jay Monahan Center for est information as Gastrointestinal Health at the Hospital’s Weill well as the best treat- Cornell Medical Center site. Opening in early ment options can be a 2004, the Center will be dedicated to gastrointesti- daunting, if not nal health, from detection and treatment to educa- impossible, task. It is tion, prevention, and research. The Center is named my profound hope in honor of Jay Monahan, the late husband of NBC that the Monahan “Today” show co-anchor Katie Couric, who died Center will make it of colon cancer at age 42 in 1998. Since then, easier for families to Couric has actively worked to raise awareness contend with perhaps about colon cancer and has committed—along the worst experience Katie Couric with the Entertainment Industry Foundation they will ever face by (EIF)—to help the Hospital raise a substantial por- providing all the nec- tion of the approximately $9 million needed to cre- essary resources under one roof,” Couric said. ate the Center. “The frantic running around from place to place “Our vision for the Center was born out of my only adds insult to injury for patients and their fam- discussions with Dr. Mark Pochapin, Jay’s gas- ilies. That will be eliminated.” White Coat ceremonies are “rites of passage” reciting the physician’s oath, each of the 120 troenterologist,” Couric said. “I discovered during Gastrointestinal cancers—including cancers of for beginning medical students and are designed beginning students at Mount Sinai School of Jay’s illness that the journey following a cancer the colon (large intestine), pancreas, liver, small to reinforce the need for physicians to incorpo- Medicine symbolically commenced their train- diagnosis is often a traumatic and harrowing one. intestine, gall bladder, stomach, and esophagus— rate sensitivity and compassion as well as med- ing to become doctors at the ceremony which constitute a significant percentage of cancer cases. ical knowledge into their future endeavors. By emphasized the importance of both scientific Colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest; it is the donning the white coats and for the first time excellence and compassionate patient care.# second-leading cancer killer of men and women in CENTER the U.S., causing an estimated 55,000 deaths each FOR EXCELLENCE year. But it is also one of the most preventable; a trointestinal health,” said Dr. Antonio M. Gotto, Jr., Addendum In a recent article about Rockefeller IN PSYCHIATRIC recent study in the New England Journal of Dean of Weill Cornell Medical College. Nearly University’s Science Outreach Program for & ADDICTION Medicine showed that 90 percent of lives could be five years ago, Couric’s husband Jay Monahan, a high school students and teachers directed by TREATMENT saved through early detection and prevention. highly regarded attorney and television legal com- “The Jay Monahan Center will be a unique mentator, lost his nine-month battle with colon can- Dr. Bonnie Kaiser, Education Update inadver- • Adult & Adolescent Care model of integrated and compassionate care,” said cer. Since then, Couric has led an initiative to raise tently omitted the generous supporters of the • Alcohol & Drug Treatment Dr. Herbert Pardes, President and Chief Executive public awareness of colorectal cancer. Important program. They are: the Howard Hughes • Eating Disorder Program Officer of New York Presbyterian. “Building on milestones in this effort include substantial press Medical Institute, Mrs. Frits Markus, Mr. and • Inpatient & Outpatient Services our distinguished gastrointestinal disease program, attention such as the “Today” show broadcast of Mrs. Herbert J. Siegel, Mr. Mortimer B. the new Center will bring together the most com- Couric’s own colonoscopy, which garnered Couric Zuckerman, Con Edison, The Dibner Fund, In nearby New Canaan, CT prehensive resources in a humanistic and interdis- several national honors, including the prestigious Golden Family Foundation, Hebrew Technical Talk to Us, We Can Help. ciplinary setting.” Peabody Award. The resulting heightened public Institute, Richard Lounsbery Foundation, “The commitment of Katie Couric and EIF will awareness about colorectal cancer led to an almost Lucent Technologies Foundation, The Pfizer 1 (800) 899-4455 TDD (203) 966-6515 make possible a truly world-class center for gas- 20 percent increase in colonoscopy screenings.# Foundation, and the Siemens Foundation. www.silverhillhospital.com NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ BOOK REVIEWS 19

Logos Bookstore’s Recommendations CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEWS By H. Harris Healy, III, President, Logos Bookstore, By SELENE S. VASQUEZ Turk and Runt: ful November day, howev- 1575 York Avenue (Between 83rd And 84th Sts.), New York, New York 10028 Feast upon a cornucopia of delectable books A Thanksgiving er, a little old lady comes (212) 517-7292, Fax (212) 517-7197; WWW.NYCLOGOS.CITYSEARCH.COM for the Thanksgiving holiday: Comedy along and decides Runt is by Lisa just the right size for her Autumn is here, the leaves are falling, there is shopping for the holidays. Here at Logos all PICTURE BOOKS: AGES 6 THRU 8 Wheeler. holiday table. Can the a chill in the air. It is a good time to get cozy purchases of the books in the store will be 10 % The highlight of New Illustrated by prized bird show more indoors with a good mystery. Such a book is off retail price. Logos also offers a discount Milly and the York City’s holiday season Frank Ansley. brains than brawn to res- Case For Three Detectives by Leo Bruce. The club that one can join for free. The club works Macy’s Parade is the stupendous annual (Atheneum, cue his brother? Ink and hostess of a weekend house party is murdered this way: after the first $100 spent there is a Macy’s Thanks-giving watercolor cartoon illus- by Shana unpaged, in her locked bedroom. 20% off discount on all books purchased in the Day Parade. Set in 1924, a trations provide an enjoy- Corey. $15.95). The facts of the case are challenging enough store and 10% off any card, gift or music pur- Illustrated by little Polish immigrant girl able dose of silliness. to attract the attention of three gifted amateur chase in the store. After $200 has been spent Brett Helquist. outright proposes to Mr. sleuths as well as the police. And what color- there is a 30% off discount on all books in the (Scholastic, Macy himself the idea of a NONFICTION: AGES 6 THRU 10 ful characters these detectives and the police store and 20% off any card, gift or music pur- unpaged, parade from Central Park A social worker at the sergeant are. Lord Simon Plimsoll, Amer Picon chase in the store. When $300 has been spent $16.95 to 34th street. Acrylic and Grandma Head Start Center, and Monsignor Smith may bring to mind some the process, outlined above, starts again. There oil paintings feature the Maxine Grandma Maxine belongs other celebrated fictional sleuths, possibly, is also a discount coupon available in the festive costumes, march- Remembers: to the Shoshone tribe and Lord Peter Wimsey, Hercule Poirot and Father Verizon Yorkville Community Yellow Pages. ing bands, and big balloons so characteristic of A Native lives on the Wind River Brown. As for Sergeant Beef, he is a solid, Transit: #4, #5, #6 Lexington Avenue this wonderful tradition. American Reservation in Wyoming. smart country constable well versed in the Subway to 86th St. M15 Bus (First & Second Family Story She shares a special bond observation of blood stains. Their creator, Aves.), M31 Bus (York Ave.), M86 Bus (86th The Very First A rhyming and rollick- by Ann Morris. with her eight-year-old Rupert Croft-Cooke (Leo Bruce) led quite a St.), M79 Bus (79th St.) Thanksgiving ing tribute to the first Photos and granddaughter Shawnee, colorful life himself as a teacher, bookseller Day Thanksgiving celebration illustrations by exploring the history and traveling with gypsies and living in Tangiers Upcoming Events At Logos: by Rhonda in a “This is the house that Peter Linenthal. culture of their people for thirteen years. Born in Kent, England in Every Monday at 3:30 P.M. Children’s Story Gowler. Jack built” cumulative (Millbrook through crafting, cooking, 1903, he published 126 books between 1922 time with Rikki Illustrated by style. Double page acrylic Press, 32 pp., preparing for powwows, th and 1977, two years before his death. He pub- Wednesday, November 6 at 7 P.M., Kill Susan Gaber. paintings engage the read- $22.90). and looking through fami- lished novels, plays, poems, cookbooks and Your TV (KYTV) Reading Group will discuss (Atheneum, er with realistic visions of ly photo albums. A works on darts and gypsies as well as mysteries The Comedians by Graham Greene unpaged, Native Americans, straightforward photo featuring Sergeant Beef and Carolus Deane. Wednesday, December 4 at 7 P.M., KYTV $15.95) Pilgrims, the Mayflower essay portraying contemporary life on a reser- The four different approaches to uncovering Reading Group will discuss The Last of The Ship, and the infinite vation.# the mystery in Case For Three Detectives will Wine by Mary Renault and Case For Three ocean surrounding Plymouth Rock. Selene S. Vasquez is a media specialist at keep the reader engrossed to the last page. Detectives by Leo Bruce (Academy Chicago Orange Brook Elementary School in This time of year is also a good time to start Publishers, $10.95.)# Turk is the much admired “He-bird” of Hollywood, Florida. She is formerly a chil- turkeys, big and strong as compared to his less dren’s librarian for the New York Public endowed brother nicknamed “Runt”. One fate- Library. Nobel Laureates in Literature An Ongoing Series to Share the Writings of Great Authors with the Public Literary Riddles “a New Deal.” This expression was previous- Naguib Mahfouz: 1988 Nobel Prizewinner ly used in a similar fashion in which piece of By CHRIS ROWAN literature? Who was the author? When was it By LILLIAN L. SCHAPIRO the basis of these books, describing their lives In 1932, Presidential candidate Franklin D. published?

The award of the Nobel Prize in literature to from the end of World War I to 1944. In Midaq Roosevelt referred to his planned agenda as written by Mark Twain and published in 1889. in published and Twain Mark by written Answer: Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court Arthur’s King in Yankee Connecticut

Naguib Mahfouz awakened Egypt’s people to Alley we meet a varied cast: Uncle Kamil, a sell- A his place in the world’s regard. He had started er of sweets, his next-door storekeeper, young writing at the age of 17 and continued to exper- Abbas, the barber, Kirsha the café owner with a iment in various forms–short stories, plays, penchant for drugs and young boys (and his essays–but it was the Nobel that earned him much-abused wife, who finally attacks him in recognition in Arabic fiction. He has been called his café.) The many other characters include the the Egyptian Balzac, Dickens and Dostoevsky, baker, a formidable woman who, in an unusual reflecting some of his own favorite authors, reversal of family roles, behaves like a tyrant to which include Tolstoy, Chekhov, Proust, Kafka her husband, much to the amusement of the and such playwrights as Ibsen, Shaw and Midaq Alley inhabitants. The serious love in the O’Neill. But it is Egypt, the country, its history community is related by Abbas and his unrequit- and the lives lived by its families that is the rock ed feelings for Hamida, who sees love possible foundation of his own existence. His parents only when it also includes money enough to sat- were middle-class Muslims, his father a civil isfy her real passion–beautiful clothes. Mrs. servant, as was Mahfouz until the income from Afify, community matchmaker, is highlighted, his writing allowed him to devote himself entire- with results of her arrangements not always ly to what he loved best in life. He attended the ensuring a happy future for those being united. Fuad I University, later renamed Cairo One extremely important character in this most University, with a degree in philosophy. In the enjoyable novel is Salim Alwan, who, like 91 years of his life he has made only two short Abbas, has his eye on Hamida, but as a wealthy trips outside Egypt, government-mandated trips industrialist has a better chance with her. to Yemen and Yugoslavia. In fact, he sent his Another character “Zaita the cripple-maker,” daughters to Stockholm to accept the Nobel practices an extraordinary livelihood. award. In Mahfouz’s stories, the economic and polit- In a slender volume entitled The Day My ical affairs of Egypt are always present. His writ- Leader Was Killed we share the thinking and ings did not please all of his fellow citizens, par- hopes of three characters: a very pious grandfa- ticularly Muslims with the strictest adherence to ther, his grandson, who is more concerned with the Qu’ran. An attack on the author by one such the great love he feels for Randa, a beautiful girl enraged Egyptian left Mahfouz with a badly who is bound by the strict codes of behavior damaged right arm–his writing arm. which prohibit young people from expressing In an investigation of the attack, Omar Abdul their romantic attractions. The political and eco- Rahman was arrested in an FBI sting in 1993 nomic terrain during this period is a thread that and is now in a federal prison in the Midwest. runs through the story, crashing into a finale with When questioned about Mahfouz, he denied any the final assassination of Sadat. involvement in the attack on him but declared This deceptively simple story, which illus- that if the writer had been tried and found guilty, trates the essence of Egypt and its people, was the punishment should have been execution. richly developed by Mahfouz into his most Today, his companions in Egypt make it pos- laughter. On a happy note, Mahfouz currently Lillian L. Shapiro, former supervisor of high important work: the three volumes of the Cairo sible for this special man, who now has sight and lives in Cairo with his wife, two daughters and school libraries in NYC Schools, is the author of trilogy. Three generations of a Cairo family are hearing problems, to enjoy conversation and their two dogs. # Fiction for Youth. 20

Education Update • November 2002 NEW DIRECTIONS IN EDUCATION: INNOVATION, COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION By DR. GERALDINE CHAPEY paign. the same goal–that of improv- mended changes. Since 1996, when the Board Bold change is in the air and taking hold As I write, sweeping ing student learning. The most of Regents and the State Education Department everywhere. With the new governance law, changes in education pressing items of the law are set new standards for High school graduation, Mayor Bloomberg now has full responsibility are taking place directed to schools designated education reform has been a top priority in New for the success of all preschool, elementary, throughout the United as those “in need of improve- York State. In 2003, students in high school will middle and high schools. Joel Klein, his newly States. This reautho- ment” or failing under existing be required to pass Regents exams in five sub- appointed Chancellor of the Department of rization of Title I rede- Title I programs. jects: English Language Arts, math, Global Education is busy conducting team meetings on fines in a very dramat- What’s ahead with NCLB? Studies, United States history, and science. All his initiatives in his bull pen office at the mag- ic way the federal role 2003–Parents who have chil- teachers must be certified by 2004. As noted nificent Tweed Courthouse neighboring City in K-12 education, dren enrolled in schools that recently in the New York Times, “Standards in Hall. The recently constituted Board of seeking within the have failed to improve for two New York now rank among the highest in the Educational Policy has formally had its first next 12 years to close consecutive years may transfer nation.” public meeting with the Chancellor at Evander the achievement gap their children to another school As leaders of change, the Board of Regents Childs High School in the Bronx. between those who of “choice” within the district and the State Education Department, in consul- Another fundamental change taking root is succeed and those who or may enroll their children in tation with districts and professionals, are well the expansion of the federal role in education fail. an approved “tutoring” or “sup- on their way to implementing the NCLB law with the landmark No Child Left Behind With strong biparti- plemental services program.” and are fine tuning New York State policies to (NCLB) law. This is a dramatic mandate to san support from 2004–All paraprofessionals align them with the law. insure collaboration and communication Congress, this new in Title I schools must have a Profound change in policy such as that identi- among all levels of government–Federal, state legislation is serious, Dr. Geraldine Chapey two year college degree or pass fied by the NCLB law cannot be accomplished and local–for the purpose of improving student and has muscle as a state exam. overnight. It will take time to train administra- performance. never before. Federal aid to schools will be 2005–Schools with a history of failure must tors, teachers, parents and related personnel. Although education is constitutionally a state dependent on student learning results; account- be restructured or closed. All teachers must be The sweeping changes in education currently responsibility, the Federal government has ability will be determined by mandatory annu- highly qualified and certified. underway are providing educators, parents and strongly influenced America’s policies on al testing of children in grades 3 to 8. New York State anticipates receiving $1.3 bil- students with a fresh start and a renewed sense school, most notably with the historic Great Focus will be on improving student perform- lion in federal aid for NCLB, over $600 million of vitality to take advantage of the promise of a Society Program of President Johnson (ESEA ance on assessments through enhancing of which will go to New York City and $120 new beginning for education in the twenty-first Title I) and the 1975 Education of All parental involvement, use of data to make deci- million to pupil transportation. century.# Handicapped Children law (now the sions, understanding scientific research–espe- New York State schools, parents and children Dr. Geraldine Chapey is a member of the New Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, cially in the area of reading strategies–curricu- are already on the board for many of the recom- York State Board of Regents. IDEA) signed by President Ford. On January 8, lum development and professional develop- 2002 President Bush signed into law the No ment. Networking and integrating these essen- Child Left Behind act–the fulfillment of a tial elements will assure that all component Chancellor Klein Promises to Listen to promise he made during his presidential cam- programs collaborate, communicate and share Public as He Implements Systemic Change By TOM KERTES ly seek the perspective of parents, students, and New York City Schools Chancellor Joel teachers. The number one key is parent and Imagine the Possibilities! Klein has adopted a novel educational perspec- community involvement.” Senior staff member tive as the driving force behind his “Children Michelle Cahill gave a detailed description of First” program. “Instead of the system working the various plans for the engagement of parents from the top down, as it has in the past, this will and the community over the next several ARTS ATTACK be a truly grassroots effort that seeks real input months. from–and requires the taking of real responsi- Deputy Chancellor for Teaching and bility on the part of–parents, students, and Learning Diana Lam spoke about literacy, Age 12 Age 11 teachers,” he said. which “profoundly affects every aspect of our In order to receive this input, the Chancellor lives, from employment to crime to our social announced an ambitious listening tour initia- circle.” Lam, acclaimed by the Chancellor as tive at a public meeting of the Panel for the “number one literacy expert in the United Educational Policy at Brooklyn’s Edward R. States” said. “Reading and writing well ensures Morrow High School. Within the next three success in all subjects. Among other things, we and a half months, he intends to meet with will implement a new type of assessment in lit- 5,000-plus parents, teachers, students, and eracy, a less formal way of testing that shall be business and community leaders. a more continuous, immediate–and therefore The meetings will range from coffee circles better–evaluation of the student. We’ll refocus Age 6 of 2-40 parents held at the Tweed Courthouse our resources on instructional leadership where to public meetings for more than 300 partici- the most important factor shall be the interac- pants in school auditoriums. “This is our shot tion between student and teacher. And, in addi- The Award-Winning for real change,” Klein told the audience. “I tion, we shall create a new model for profes- Art Program for the beg you to take this seriously. I implore you sional development as well.” participate.” This meeting was the first for the two newest Elementary School The Chancellor still needs to convince the members of the panel. In his introduction, public both of the seriousness of his purpose Chancellor Klein called Caroline Kennedy–the and the efficiency of his staff to implement pol- Director of the Office of Strategic Age 7 icy. As one parent, Althea Thomas asked, “Will Partnerships–a “jewel and a tremendous asset.” our voices make a real difference–or are we “I first aspired to public service after I heard just window-dressing?,” echoing the mood of Caroline’s father speak as a presidential candi- Age 5 many at the meeting. Recalling last year’s par- date in 1960,” Klein said. “So I can’t even ent-opinion study–requested by then-chancel- begin to tell you how excited I am about having Approved Vendor for NYC Schools Unique Video-based Format lor Harold Levy at the cost of $605,000–panel a chance to work with her.” Based on the Teaching of Comprehensive, Developmental member Donald Weber begged Klein to act Marcie Harris, the first African-American Art Elements and Principles and Sequential - Grades K-6 swiftly. “We’ve had 12 Chancellors in 18 woman to become a Major General in the U.S. years,” he stated. Army, “should bring a great amount of knowl- Emphasis on Right Brain Easy to Teach by the Classroom “The central focus of this administration edge and organizational experience to our Training and Development Teacher or the Art Specialist shall be to enact systemic, serious change,” effort,” Klein added. “I am thrilled to have her replied Klein. “It will involve a realignment of skills on the side of public education and work- Toll-free: 888-760-ARTS • Fax: 858-481-3959 functions. The focus shall be not on a school ing with her for the important changes we are Email: [email protected] • Website: www.artsattack.com system, it will be on schools. We’ll aggressive- attempting to implement.”# 21

November 2002 • Education Update We Welcome Schools Chancellor Joel Klein to Education Update MAJOR CHANGES FOR THE SCHOOLS By JOEL KLEIN if we are going to succeed. But bureaucratic very, very costly structure like Every individual I meet on the street says, “I we need it to flow in a way that ours is. They also know that, without coherent wish you good luck.” When they have had a is constructive and effective. We meaningful planning, you will not get the job drink or so they say, “Do you realize what you cannot simply have 1,000 points done. If I announce tomorrow that we are going have gotten yourself into?” The answer is, yes, of light, we need to have a laser to downsize this by 80 percent, move all this I realize it. This is not a job for someone who beam that both makes use of the money and so forth, there would be a wonder- wants to make marginal or incremental resources and focuses them in a ful headline. But in three days, the plan would changes. By the same token, significant change way that maximizes their be dead. in a massive complex organization is very hard effect.Who can better accom- I do not know enough, and indeed no one to achieve. plish this than Caroline Kennedy knows enough, to understand how money in the Organizations evolve in the way that they do by her willingness to say, “Yes I system is spent, where we are getting bang for because there are all sorts of gravitational pulls am behind this effort, I believe the buck and what restructuring we need. So we just like the earth has mountains and oceans we can get an education for are conducting a four-quadrant analysis, looking created over years and years of gravitational every child in New York, not just forward to a comprehensive plan designed, not and environmental pulls. Archimedes said, “If I for some children?” for marginal but for systemic reform. The four had a lever I could move the world.” I wish I I am enormously proud of the parts are instruction in the classic sense, finance, had a lever that I could move this world with team. And bringing it together organization and community involvement. because, when you’re dealing with certain took a non-trivial amount of my I want to hear from the affected groups, problems, it is harder to figure out how to do time. I believed then, I believe advocacy groups, parents groups in particular, some things than it is to figure out what to do. now and will always believe that and community groups, business groups. I want I am not about to figure out how to do a couple if I did not get that piece right it them to weigh in for two reasons. First of all, it of small incremental changes. Systemic change was going to be impossible to is very important to hear what they have to say. is going to take longer than six months or even accomplish the rest. A lot of knowledge out there is not at the Tweed a year. Some of the initial things that I Courthouse. The education system has been polarized and did I wanted to do quickly The second reason, and this is probably the undermined by political controversies. It is because we were beginning the most important, is that when we develop this enormously significant that the mayor was able school year. I extended the school plan we need the city behind us. We need the to bridge those controversies and effect the year by a couple of days. With the communities, the parents, the people in the city change in governance. Our most unpolitical mayor’s strong support, we to say, “The time is now. This has to happen; mayor has said that he wants responsibility for immediately put in place an the traditional constituencies that have made the education of our children and has been office of school safety and plan- the system work for people other than children given the authority to act. ning. The other thing I did, which are going to have to take second seat.” If we do People know that that is a politically risky was a little more controversial, not get that kind of support, change is not going thing for a mayor to do. The mayor has com- Interior of the Tweed Courthouse was to provide bonus incentives to happen. I am a guy who is about good news municated to the city that he is putting the city for district superintendents, based and bad news. The good news is I will empow- ahead of politics. I think that augurs well for largely on test scores. er you. The bad news is, if you then screw up, I what we are doing. much less to African American women. I Tests are not the be all and the end all. On the will fire you. That is the way I think about this No matter who you are or what your leader- brought her in partly because she is a unique other hand, for better or for worse, there is no job: empowerment, accountability. ship qualities are, you are not going to penetrate national treasure, but more importantly because other metric by which we can measure funda- The core unit in the educational system is the an organization like this unless you bring in she has a quality that a lot of educational oper- mental performance. And it is very hard to say school. Parents do not send their children to people who have no stake in the existing sys- ations lack: she understands what it is to that we are doing a great job of educating kids, school systems. They don’t send their children tem and who have the kind of leadership skills accomplish a mission. but most of them fail math and reading tests. to districts, they don’t even send them to a to effectuate the sort of reform that we’re talk- In education, there are lots of wonderful Furthermore, given the current structure of fed- teacher. They send them to a school and they ing about. Essentially I hired five people as my ideas. Educators have seminars and they have eral and state laws, these core team and added a sixth later. I hired them retreats, they have meetings, and then they have tests guide our system because I had in mind a vision of the mission or more retreats and more meetings, and really whether you like it or indeed the crusade that we are about to go on. wonderful things emerge. But then the question not. That is a reality of First of all, you need an ace instructional per- is how does that idea get down to the place current American educa- son, who has gotten results in literacy and in where the teacher and the student meet. What I tion. math, who has raised school district scores and want to do is figure out how we drive change If so many of our kids who has broken a little china in the process. If through the system In finding Marcy Harris, I are reading below grade you are not prepared to break a little china — or have found the kind of leader who can take the level on tests we need to a lot of china — in this business, it is very hard good ideas and drive them through this enor- systemically address to be effective. mously large, complex, labyrinthine system we that. One of the impor- This is not a place for people who are trying call the New York City Department of tant signals with the to win a popularity contest. I did a national Education. incentive plan was I search and came up with Diana Lam. She is an The fifth person I hired was Tony Shorris. He want people to be ace when it comes to teaching and learning. is a superb manager and the person I needed for focused on this. No edu- The work she did in San Antonio is in many continuity. I did not want to put in a manage- cation is complete just if respects a national model. And it says a lot ment team in which I did not have somebody you pass your tests. On about her that she was willing to give up a who knew the system, was able to advise me on the other hand you must Exterior view of the Tweed Courthouse career of number one jobs to become a deputy where he thought the problems were, some- empower these kids and chancellor. We also needed a systems person, body who has a tough mind. teach them to succeed. and I hired Michele Cahill from Carnegie. She The sixth member, who I appointed later, is Schools used to try to figure out who the smart want their children to be in good schools. has spent her whole life working to creating Caroline Kennedy. She represents a few things. kids and the not-smart kids were and then just The paradox of New York is that, although opportunities for the less fortunate. And it First, we have got to get the entire city and its educate the smart ones. We have got to change people frequently say we do not have a good seemed critical to get somebody who could resources behind this enterprise. There are key that or we are really going to be stuck with two school system, we have many, many good align resources with the mission. After all, you people in America today who would like to see Americas. And it is not going to be a pretty pic- schools, some of them in neighborhoods where may have some elaborate design but if you the not-for-profit, philanthropic business com- ture. people say it is hard to or impossible to educate don’t get the bucks behind it, you are going to munity abandon the public school system. My I also wanted my superintendents to know people. So this is about reversing expectations be spinning your wheels. I found Kathleen job is to insure that doesn’t happen. that if they put in the extra effort, if they and creating a culture in which we believe, Grimm who used to do budgeting in this city During the 1990s, most people in the busi- accomplish what I think they can accomplish, because we know it to be true, that all children and understood budgeting in this state. ness community had the view that the school they will all be rewarded. We will also create can learn, that the school is not some kind of I brought in — and I guess this was my trick system was broken and all the infighting and rewards for the school districts and so forth. baby sitting operation. We need to focus the appointment – Marcelite Harris as chief of politics made it unlikely that they could pru- This is the first step in a multi-part effort. entire system on taking us from 300, 350, 400, staff. She was an African American two-star dently invest in the system. The signal they are Then, I decided to put together a comprehen- good schools to 1,200 good schools.# general. This says a lot about her. The Air Force sending me now is that we are with you on this. sive plan. Anybody who has been in business as Joel Klein is New York City Schools has not been historically congenial to women, We need all that energy flowing into the system I have realizes how resistant to change a large Chancellor. 22 CHILDREN’S CORNER ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ NOVEMBER 2002

FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT’S SEAT ASK DR. MCCUNE Teaching Our Children The Power of Teachers By DR. LORRAINE Administratively, I have told my students, teach- to Give Back McCUNE ers have little power. Each school is governed by By DR. CAROLE G. nity spirit and have organized many different This fall, after a twenty-year a principal. Each district has a curriculum. HANKIN WITH events and drives to help others. It is not a hiatus, I find myself again teach- Supervisors monitor implementation of the cur- RANDI T. SACHS requirement for graduation, but community ing students who aspire to the riculum. Lesson plans must be created and fol- Our children study a great many subjects in service is part of every student’s experience in teaching profession. I began my work with these lowed. Where teachers are represented by a pro- school. Some of the lessons they learn will last Syosset. young people with some trepidation. The field of fessional organization, an additional set of rules is a lifetime; in other lessons facts may be forgot- Beginning in kindergarten and first grade our education is faced with many challenges at pres- in place. Teachers are limited in their after school ten, but they serve to expand the childrens’ students experience the rewards of giving by ent. Equity of instruction across levels of poverty initiatives by contractual agreements. It is too easy capacity for thinking and making decisions. inviting senior citizens from the community to and wealth, minority and majority children has not to see how “voluntary” extra hours could be A fairly new phrase in education that is used join them for a Thanksgiving celebration or by been achieved. Children with disabilities are now coerced, or could undermine the rights of the more frequently now is “character education.” visiting a nursing home during the December entitled to education in the ordinary environment group. Recognizing that what is traditionally taught in holidays and singing for the residents. of their peers, but it is the unusual school that man- So where is the power that teachers retain? the home must be reinforced in school, we have Just this week, middle school students in ages this task sensibly, with optimum outcomes Working with young people preparing to teach, put character education into the curriculum Syosset started the morning with laps around for all children in the classroom. Children who are reminds me that it is the teacher alone who meets alongside math and social studies. the track constituting a walkathon to benefit English language learners, having a non-English and engages the mind of the student. The teacher Character education addresses such behav- cancer research. Together with faculty, staff, native language, and their families can hardly in the “privacy” of his or her classroom becomes ioral issues as good sportsmanship, kindness, and also many parents, siblings, and a few pets, know what to expect, with bilingual education the arbiter of knowledge and values. The very way generosity, helping others, honesty, integrity, they made a concerted effort to raise funds and now embraced, now rendered illegal, and all along that students are addressed…The attention they safety, fairness, and more. It is important that awareness. These are just a few examples, the variously defined. Schools are more racially seg- are paid… The manner in which the teacher we talk to our students about why we place list of things our students do to help others in regated than they were 20 years ago. expresses enthusiastic knowledge has the power to such a high value on these attributes. We also both our local and our greater community is My personal experience with Whole School transform and engage the students. What matters can lead by example and help our students put much too long to fit in this column. Reform, mandated for districts of poverty in New most is what teachers and students do together. these values into action–especially when it There is no doubt in my mind that the lessons Jersey, my home state, does not suggest a hopeful Teachers can create a microcosm of learning comes to helping others. our students learn from being involved in these outcome from these efforts. Rather than building through their own talents. A school day is about 6 As a nation, we have made ourselves proud acts of kindness and generosity are every bit as on the strengths of talented teachers, formulas hours long. Multiply that over the years and the in the manner in which we have collectively important as their academic subjects. And there from outside are considered the route to success. enormous power of teachers is evident. Just by sought to be of help and comfort to those who is another, equally valuable lesson they Reports from my students, out doing fieldwork, being there they have opportunities to change the were directly affected by the tragedy of learn–that they can make a difference. Our stu- suggest that “reform” often takes the form of rigid- world.# September 11, 2001. Many schools held fund dents are learning that their contribution makes ity, lack of freedom in learning, and “teaching to Dr. Lorraine McCune is a professor at the raising drives, collected goods, and wrote let- a difference, and that by working together they the test”. It sometimes seems that in our era, test Rutgers University Graduate School of Education ters of encouragement and thanks to our heroes can overcome difficult obstacles. These are all performance is more important than the daily per- and serves as advisor to educational toy company, and the victims and their families. lessons we hope will last a lifetime, and that we formance of interesting and challenging activities General Creation. She can be reached at In our District, I am proud to say that our stu- as parents can help to teach our children by in the classroom. www.generalcreation.com in the “Ask Dr. dents have always had a great sense of commu- modeling these actions.# Despite all of this, teachers retain their power. McCune” section. Harvest Unique Programs in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden at The NY Botanical Garden Pofessional Development For Teachers Schedule a class trip to the Adventure Garden The Preschool that makes housecalls. Introducing the new “A Teacher’s Guide to the and receive a free copy of the guide or down- Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, Making load a copy at www.nybg.ord/chil_edu/ Informal Learning Fun,” designed to help maxi- Are you an educator interested in learning about mize the educational experience of a visit to the The New York Botanical Garden and how to Adventure Garden for the teacher and students make use of its myriad resources? Learn how to before, during and after a class trip. The Guide use the Garden as an extension of your classroom. provides background science information, lists There are myriad topics to choose from–rain for- Web sites and literature resources related to each est ecology to desert ecology to wetland and pond topic, and provides a variety of easy to imple- ecology. Alternatively the Garden’s staff will cus- ment activities that create a conceptual link tomize a program that accommodates the specific between the field trip and classroom learning. needs of your group. One unit of New York City Board of Education New Teacher Credit is earned Experienced, reliable for each hour of seminar training and participation in the summer intensives earns three salary differ- housekeeper available entiated “G” credits. Family and School Programming Excellent In addition to our staff development programs we have special weekends at the childcare Adventure Garden that encourage children and • Early Childhood Education C lasses references families to learn about plant science in a fun on request and engaging way. • Small C lass Sizes (3-6 students per class) Thanksgiving Treats–Saturday and Sunday, Mary (718) 574-8555 November 23 and 24, 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m. The Garden is a burst of fall color. Birds, rab- • Starting at age of 18 months bits and chipmunks enjoy the bounty of seeds and fruit. Find the flowers that bloom in fall and make an arrangement to grace the Thanksgiving table at home. Make cornhusk dolls and turkeys, design a fall foliage mural, and create a Thanksgiving centerpiece with seasonal plants, berries and nuts. At 2 p.m. on Saturday children and families enjoy stories of Harvest Tales by Kim Bendheim. On Sunday, from 11a.m.–2p.m. children make harvest origami. For more information please call (718) 817- 8181 to register for Professional Development programs or to schedule your class for a field trip. For information on Garden hours please call (718) 817-8700.# www.homeschoolpreschool.com The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden has been made possible by the leadership gen- call 1-866-258-3475 for a brochure erosity of Edith and Henry Everett. NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ MUSEUMS AS EDUCATORS 23 Getting Inside the Exhibit: ‘Art Inside Out’ at Children’s Museum themselves up and use the props to compose pho- screen computer programs that allow visitors tographs against a variety of curtains, as Wegman to arrange Murray’s shapes themselves, pro- has done in the famous portraits of his jecting their “work” onto larger screens hung Weimaraners. from the ceiling, giant magnets, pencil rub- The opportunity to interact with the art, bings and a “sound painting,” for which visi- Wegman believes, can make subsequent museum tors don a pair of headphones and then “play” visits less alienating. As for a young child’s abili- a painting by tapping it with a large paint- ty to comprehend the myriad concepts at play in brush, with different portions of the work contemporary art, “I think that misunderstanding emitting a variety of sounds. is as good as understanding at that age,” said The aim, according to Schwartz, is not only Wegman, noting that he had already seen children to introduce children to the diversity of medi- visiting the exhibit using display elements in ways ums that artists use but also to the thought neither intended nor imagined by the curators. processes that accompany technical proce- “I think there are layers of my work that Fred Wilson’s installation pieces dures. “We want them to really understand the wouldn’t occur to adults,” he added.# excitement of making art, of looking at art.” Exhibit inspired by In the portion of the exhibition devoted to Elizabeth Murray’s paintings installation artist Fred Wilson, children are Direct connection by PATH to Hudson-Bergen MAKE “BACK-TO-SCHOOL” invited to arrange wooden eggs on a counter- Light Rail—Liberty State Park Station AN ADVENTURE AT By MARIE HOLMES top, magnetic people within framed images of LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER It’s hardly the first interactive art exhibition the classroom, cafeteria and playground as well Teachers: Who says the beginning of the school year isn’t the right time for field in New York City. But for the young target as the type of vintage figurines Wilson has used trips? Certainly not Liberty Science Center! audience of “Art Inside Out,” the Children’s in some of his pieces. A computer program and Take advantage of the LOWEST school Museum of Manhattan’s (CMOM) current digital camera in one corner allow visitors to group rates for the year, and these fantastic traveling exhibitions and films in the exhibition, it’s likely the first time that they’ve photograph their arranged objects, title the IMAX® Theater. been invited to touch art in a museum setting. piece and record an artist’s statement. Carefully New Exhibitions: “The idea is to introduce children and their designed fragments of another set of figurines Kid Stuff: families to three incredible contemporary allow visitors to rearrange the heads, bodies and Great Toys From Our Childhood (May 25, 2002 - January 6, 2003) artists,” said the exhibit’s curator, Deborah bases, emulating Wilson’s own playful process. If you built it, played it, or created it as a Schwartz. Divided into three sections devot- Wilson says that the children that he had kid, chances are that it will be part of this ed to the works of Elizabeth Murray, Fred spoken with had no difficulties appreciating a traveling exhibition. The exibits are a remarkable presentation of more than 200 Wilson and William Wegman, the exhibit found object piece, once they had grasped the of the most popular toys of the past fifty invites children to climb “inside” the paint- basic concept. years, from Tonkas and Tinkertoys, to ings, installations and photographs on display “One of the kids said, ‘So you take other peo- Raggedy Anns and Radio Flyers. The Sciences of Toys, an onsite demonstration through a number of interactive activities. ple’s artwork and you move it around and make designed to bring science to this exhibition, One section was designed around one of it your own–okay,’” recalled Wilson. “Once will debut in September! It will provide Murray’s paintings, “Plan 9” (2001), which they realized that they could think whatever some fun, interactive learning experiences on topics such as polymers, and the children had expressed an interest in during they wanted to think they just had fun with it.” mechanics of an Etch-A-Sketch! preliminary visits to Murray’s studio. The work Designed to look like a house, the portion of XFR: itself, protected by plexiglass, is mounted on the exhibit devoted to the work of William Minutes away from New York City, eXperiments in the Future of Reading adjacent to the Statue of Liberty (May 18 - September 15, 2002) one wall, next to a photograph of the painting’s Wegman is filled with dozens of household Imagine a book as big as a table top with wooden backside and several of Murray’s pre- items–telephone, book, brush–as well as a and Ellis Island National Monuments pages that turn when it tilts. Think of the liminary sketches. Activities include touch rack of colorful clothing. Visitors can dress possibilities of a Reading Eye Dog: a device Discover three themed floors: that combines optical character recognition and speech synthesis to create a loveable Invention, Health and Environment reading companion. Or a children’s book Rising Above Jim Crow: Art that produces amazing sound effects when you “conduct” it with simple hand gestures. Experience 250 hands-on exhibits See all that’s new on the cutting edge of Exhibition & Public Television Series reading technologies in XFR. Psychology: A trove of paintings by Crow South and into the Get close to the action in the largest It’s More Than You Think IMAX® Dome Theater in the United States (Sept. 28, 2002 - January 12, 2003 a previously unheralded, first decades of desegre- Do people everywhere have the same emo- self-taught artist from gation. He painted tions? How do children understand their Spartanburg, South Carolina, scenes of fieldwork world? How do people develop and use lan- Lunch facilities available guage? Is it best to cooperate or compete? provides the core material of (recalled from child- Investigate these questions and more at over a new traveling exhibition hood, when he served as Call 201.200.1000 17 interactive experiments designed to that offers a personal vision a water by during har- introduce students to the breadth, depth, and for school group rates diversity of more than 100 years of psycho- of the strength and creativity vests), church life, night logical research. of African-American life life, civil rights demon- In the IMAX® Dome Theater: during the final decades of strations and the chang- Australia: Land Beyond Time segregation. Rising Above Jim Crow: The ing city. Among the themes of the exhibition are May 18, 2002 - March 2003 Witness Australia’s birth as it broke away Paintings of Johnnie Lee Gray opens in New the strength of family; the sense of community from Antarctica millions of years ago, and York City on November 20 at the Schomburg in both rural and urban settings; the power of watch as the film captures in a beautiful Center for Research in Black Culture (a divi- the African-American church; and the process ancient landscape fossilized evidence of the first life on earth. Explore how life has man- sion of the New York Public Library). of migration, both physical and spiritual, as aged to adapt to the harsh environment and The exhibition encompasses some 35 paint- African-Americans searched for a better life. even flourish on the impoverished soils of ings by Gray (1941-2000) as well as a selection The paintings of Johnnie Lee Gray, which Australia, revealing its spectacular land- Colgate Center forms and strange and beautiful animals that of archival photographs and video interviews were known only regionally during his lifetime, populate it. See how the bounding giant red that place the artwork in its historical and social came to light through the development of a NY Waterway kangaroo has become more efficient than contexts. website for educators being developed in con- most athletes, and how plants and animals cooperate to maximize their chance of sur- Raised in a sharecropper family, Johnnie Lee junction with the television series. Researchers vival. Gray attended the segregated black high school were directed to Gray’s widow, Ms. Shirley Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, then Sims Gray, whose collection of her late hus- (May 18, 2002 - February 2003) Relive an amazing tale of discovery and served in the army for seven years, including a band’s work forms the core of the exhibition. exploration as National Geographic Films tour of duty in Vietnam. Although he worked in The artwork on display in the exhibit, as well as brings to life the first crossing of what textile mills after returning home and later other teaching aids (including an offer to edu- would become the United States. With care- became a carpenter, he always viewed himself cators for free videotapes of the television ful research and meticulous recreations, this scientific expedition lives again on the big as an artist, having drawn since childhood. In series), are available on the website (www.jim- screen. Two hundred years after their epic 1978, he met and married Shirley Sims and crowhistory.org.) LIBERTY journey, go back in time with Lewis, Clark, began to paint for the first time, From that point An advance presentation of the exhibition, their guide Sacagawea, and their brave SCIENCE Corps of Discovery, as they discover the until his death in 2000 at the age of 58, he com- timed to coincide with the broadcast of the four- adventure, danger, and wonder of the pleted approximately 150 paintings. part WNET/13 television series of the same unmapped West. Most of Gray’s paintings evoke his experi- name, will be held by the project’s corporate CENTER Also Showing: Liberty State Park • Jersey City, New Jersey The Human Body ences as an African-America living in the Jim sponsors at the Forbes Galleries October 5-19.# www.lsc.org (Through September 2002) 24 COLLEGES & GRADUATE SCHOOLS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ NOVEMBER 2002

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College Admissions Demystified QCC to Offer Entertainment Publicity Course Queensborough Community College’s a media kit and how to write a press release. By SYBIL MAIMIN ed to score as well as one whose parents did. Continuing Education Department is offering Susan Chicoine–Barrow, from Springer The college admissions frenzy is in full swing Special talents, especially ones needed by the a 5-session class entitled, “Publicity for /Chicoine Public Relations, has been a profes- and hardly a seat was empty when The New York school, weigh in. The committees, which typical- Theater and Entertainment Arts,” in which a sional Broadway press agent for over twenty Times and Hofstra University co-sponsored a talk ly are staffed by individuals whose backgrounds professional publicist will take students years. Springer/Chicoine has represented the- based on the book The Gatekeepers: Inside the reflect the diversity the college seeks, do not want behind the headlines generated by a fast- ater companies, film festivals and actors such Admissions Process of a Premier College by to fill a class with only high scorers. They see growing profession. as Al Pacino, Mia Farrow, Dustin Hoffman, Jacques Steinberg. Anxious prospective students, themselves as social engineers and look for quali- The 5 session class, which will meet from Bette Davis and Elizabeth Taylor. parents, and guidance counselors were taken ties that will make for an interesting and produc- 7:45–9:45 p.m. on Tuesdays from November 19 The cost of the course is $100. For more behind the scenes by Steinberg, who had been tive mix. The essay is taken seriously, and readers through December 17, will cover topics such as information, call the Office of Continuing given unprecedented observer access to the admis- claim that, with experience, they can usually spot how to mount a media campaign, how to prepare Education at (718) 631-6343.# sions committee at Wesleyan University, a select, one written by someone else. An excellent essay is small, private college in Middletown, suspect, for example, if the applicant did poorly in THE BANK STREET APPROACH Connecticut. What he learned would probably English classes or the verbal SAT. Most colleges apply to about four dozen similar select colleges require three SAT IIs (tests of subject content) and and in a general way to many more. An additional they become particularly important for applicants “A Bank Street perspective was offered by Gigi Lamens, who is from unknown schools as does the high school teacher is someone responsible for undergraduate recruitment, reten- profile. Being a leader in one or two activities is tion, admissions, and financial aid at Hofstra. impressive; having a long list of extra-curricular exquisitely attuned Steinberg’s message: “This process is far more affiliations is not. The interview almost never to the different human than we have been led to believe. It is effects the decision but is recommended as an messy and very personal to those doing the job.” opportunity to learn more about an institution. learning styles He could not find a formula or a strategy for Though often criticized, the US News and admission. Generally, an applicant’s file is read by World Report rankings play a big part in admis- and needs of two admissions committee members who decide sions. Besides influencing student’s choices, they each child in whether to admit, reject, or put on a waiting list. If matter a great deal to colleges in this “fiercely they cannot concur, the file is passed on to the competitive” business, explained Steinberg. the classroom.” entire committee for a decision. Some schools, Colleges contribute to the admissions frenzy by CATHLEEN WIGGINS Harvard, for example, make all decisions in whole trying to tempt record numbers of applicants and BANK STREET COLLEGE ALUMNA committee. Much of the reading of application are deeply concerned about “market share.” They materials takes place in solitude at committee try to woo the same students. Hofstra president member’s homes during a period of long hours Stuart Rabinowitz cautioned prospective colle- Learn how to be a great teacher. and intense stress. gians that the “goal of the college search should In assessing an application, a reader looks for not be for the institution that is best for someone Graduate School Open House rigor of courses taken. A grade of “B” in a diffi- else. One size in colleges does not fit all.” Gigi November 12, 2002, 5:15 p.m. cult course is better than an “A” in an easy one. Lamens noted that there are over 2,000 four-year SATs are important and a score of at least 1400 is colleges in the US, each right for a different kind expected at top colleges, but much leeway is given of person. Steinberg, who visits many institutions 610 West 112th Street, New York, NY 10025-1898 INNOVATION IN in numerous special situations. An applicant for his job, has seen some that admit practically whose parents did not go to college is not expect- everyone and also offer an excellent education.# www.bankstreet.edu 212.875.4698 TEACHING AND LEARNING

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KUSHNER inquiry-based learning. “It’s a modern buzz- In the silent and empty halls of the Bank word for a philosophy of teaching and learning Street College of Education, after students had that’s existed for a very long time,” he said. deserted for the day, one room bustled. In it, “It’s a way of giving knowledge that is based deans, teachers, and trustees were witnessing on answering questions. The philosophical an astonishing demonstration of how the Sally manifestation of that is the Socratic method.” Kerlin Institute would use a grant to strengthen As if on Liu’s command, the room erupted the teaching of natural and environmental sci- with noise. The attendees separated into break- ences. out groups, and just like an elementary school The Kerlin Institute’s Endowment for the science class, participants tried to figure out Teaching of the Natural and Environmental why a mirror does what it does. “What if we Sciences was initiated by a bequest from Sally tilt it back at this angle?” could be heard from Kerlin, who had been involved with Bank one side of the room. “I can’t see his face any- Street for most of her adult life. The endow- more,” from another. ment stipulates that her institute investigate The experiment was developed by Eleanor R. new methods for teaching the sciences and Duckworth of Harvard’s School of Education, impart them to teachers in training. It works in to demonstrate inquiry based learning. conjunction with the American Museum of “It’s like learning by doing and learning by Natural History and the Wave Hill Center for asking as opposed to learning by sitting pas- Environmental Sciences, as well as Bank sively in a lecture,” said Liu. “It’s not easy to Street. execute if you’re a teacher . . . As an educator, “[Sally] felt that this was a discipline that it’s easier to present information to them, and needed a new methodology,” said Gilbert [that] has a value, but it doesn’t necessarily fos- Kerlin, her husband, who survives her. “The ter the transformation of information into purpose of this grant is to propel the teaching of knowledge.” natural and environmental science.” Liu said that inquiry-based learning was dif- At the Friday afternoon demonstration, Dr. ficult to teach and that the Kerlin Institute had Charles Liu, an astrophysicist for the American its work cut out. It will have to teach teachers a Museum of Natural History, wowed partici- whole new skill set. pants with his presentation, in which he helped “One of the challenges of inquiry-based them deduce the laws of reflection by playing teaching is that the instructor needs to be flexi- with mirrors. Rather than tell attendees the ble. The instructor needs to know how to bring properties of reflection, he broke the confer- the discoveries of the students into the main ence into groups, handed out palm-sized mir- theme of the lesson. You need to know not rors, and asked them to figure out the laws. only how to teach that way, but you need to That method of teaching, said Liu, is called know what you’re teaching very well.”#

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Mark Minton Named Diplomat-in- Marymount Manhattan Inaugurates New President Residence at CCNY By SYBIL MAIMIN not have been chosen for the position Taking a sabbatical from the realm of interna- It has been a season of inaugurations just a few years ago, illustrates the tional diplomacy, where negotiating peace talks of new college presidents in New York extent of these changes. in Asian trouble spots and representing the U.S. City, and Judson R. Shaver joined the In his inaugural address, President at the UN Security Council were the order of the distinguished list as he became the Shaver affirmed his support for the day, Mark Minton, former Minister-Counselor seventh president of Marymount inclusion of character development for Political Affairs at the U.S. Mission to the Manhattan College on October 18. In and values teaching in the college UN, has accepted a new posting with a strong a ceremony steeped in tradition, robed experience. Admitting that his has long diplomatic flavor to it in the halls of academia. academics, dignitaries, and delegates been “a minority opinion,” he The foreign service veteran has been named from a spectrum of colleges and uni- advised, “We in academia cannot the State Department’s “Diplomat-in- versities with colorful hoods denoting afford disinterest in what our students Residence” (DIR) at City College, charged with degrees and departments, as well as do with their knowledge and skills.” encouraging CCNY’s uniquely diverse student students and staff, marched in a pro- Institutions of higher learning are body to pursue careers in the service. cession to honor and welcome the increasingly under scrutiny as the During his one-year tenure that will end incoming president. Greetings were public questions cost, whether or not August 2003, Mr. Minton will run a writing delivered by: Dennis Walcott, deputy students learn and how well prepared workshop for the intensely rigorous Foreign mayor of New York City representing graduates are to take part in society Service exam, mentor prospective candidates Mayor Michael Bloomberg; Bill upon their graduation. President and provide students with general information Irwin, the performer, who revealed Shaver cited a Carnegie report critical on the Foreign Service. that he debuted with Judson Shaver in of higher education on grounds that 1) As a member of CCNY’s International Studies a high school play; Carol Ann pre-professional studies and narrowly program faculty, he will also teach an undergrad- Mooney, vice president of Notre defined majors dominate; 2) profes- uate course in International Studies next Spring. Dame University, Professor Shaver’s sional and liberal arts education are Mr. Minton is the State Department’s only proud alma mater; Geraldine Ferraro, far apart; 3) humanities are no longer Diplomat-in-Residence in the Northeastern a Marymount Manhattan alum who important; 4) attempts to link human- United States. served in the House of ities and sciences have failed; 5) “My presence here is intended to support Representatives and ran for vice pres- fundraising dominates leaders’ time; CCNY’s efforts in getting the program initiated ident of the United States; and Ben and 6) searching self-assessments and for students who are interested in diplomatic Pryor, student government president adherence to mission are rarities. The careers, particularly underrepresented minori- who said, “We are your future and President Judson R. Shaver new president reported that ties,” said Mr. Minton. today, President Shaver, your future Marymount Manhattan has been The CCNY program is also open to other City welcomes you.” engaged in “searching self-assess- University (CUNY) institutions. CCNY expects The evolution of Marymount ment” leading to a new strategic plan to develop a model that can be used in other Manhattan from a very traditional two-year that it is today, serving a diverse population, and a renewed and strengthened mission. “Like inner-city universities. girls’ college (a “finishing school,” said Ms. was a common theme touched upon by speak- our city, we will be diverse, exciting, and com- Typically, the State Department rotates its DIR Ferraro) at its founding in 1936 to the four year, ers. That Dr. Shaver is the first male president mitted,” he promised, and, “most of all, we will in New York, and the DIR is generally placed in coed, urban, independent, liberal arts institution of Marymout Manhattan and probably would be distinguished by academic quality.# the CUNY system for recruitment purposes.#

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Tim Hartnett Aspire. Achieve. Middle School History Teacher IONA COLLEGE BS ’81/MST ’97 One Dutch Hill Road, Orangeburg, NY/www.iona.edu 36 College Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 • 800.336.6794 715 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY [email protected] • www.tui.edu/vermontcollege Celebrating 200 years of Christian Brothers’ Education. 28 Award EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ NOVEMBER 2002 Winner Bel Kaufman Captivates Audience at Marymount Manhattan College By JOAN BAUM, Ph.D. Marymount friend, Sharon (Mrs. Peter) Green. lows humor that comes from adversity but Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose–the She thanks the members of the audience for turns on hope, ethnic humor that is also univer- more things change, the more they stay the their warm welcome, then adds with wicked sal. same. She repeats the well known expression in glee, “I deserve it.” She moves to the micro- She concludes by noting that once a year, on playful, dusky tones, and it’s hard to believe phone, but not without shooting a mock glance Sholom Aleichem’s birthday, May 12A (he was that Bel Kaufman, author, teacher, raconteur, is of petulance at Lewis Frumkes, director of The superstitious, she says, and avoided the number 91. Though it’s been a couple of years since her Writing Center, for having announced her age 13) his deathbed wish is honored: to have gath- last visit to Marymount and a lot has happened to the world, but she’s clearly proud of her ered together people who will tell stories and in her life and in the world, what has stayed the nonagenerian triumphs, and for sure she’s in laugh. Everyone, she declares, is invited next same is her joie de vie. Soon after she finishes great form–pleased, she says, that she’s “more year to the Brotherhood Synagogue to honor her talk on her writing life as the granddaugh- or less vertical.” She enjoys the audience’s that tradition. Meanwhile, she will be writing ter of the famous Yiddish writer Sholom laughter and encourages more. As Sholom her own memoirs and when not so engaged, (“Fiddler on the Roof”) Aleichem, she will take Aleichem would say, she points out, “laughter slithering around doing the tango. “I’m too off for her usual downtown date with tango is the sound of survival,” one should indulge, busy to grow older.” # dancing. She’s wearing high heels. one should “laugh on credit.” She goes on to For information about The Marymount It is early evening, and the golden chande- identify this view as intrinsically Jewish, the Manhattan Writing Center’s series of talks, liers shine with burnished beauty in laughter that is dead serious at the core, gal- seminars, and courses call: (212) 774-4811. Marymount Manhattan College’s newly refur- bished mezzaine, a subtle-toned, elegant parlor that suits Bel Kaufman perfectly. She positions herself casually, confidently, at the dais, and Fall 2002 Enrollment at CUNY Increases by 5.4 Percent will soon dismiss the “unnecessary and intru- Entering Class Has Higher Test Scores sive” microphone, preferring instead direct, Fall 2002 enrollment at The City University of New York increased by five percent over last year, the third successive informal, unmediated conversation with her annual gain and the greatest one-year percentage increase in nearly a quarter of a century, Chancellor Matthew audience. The room is full. Her voice is strong, Goldstein announced recently. deep, unwavering. She smiles, makes eye con- “Students are coming because the University’s reputation has developed so that the public understands that the degree is valued again,” said Chancellor Goldstein. “The University has accomplished two objectives–increasing enroll- tact. It is impossible not to smile back. She is Author Bel Kaufman ment and increasing standards–that are often seen as contradictory.” sincere, she is a pro. She looks at least 20 years Total headcount now stands at 208,047, the largest total enrollment since 1994 and the greatest one-year percent- younger. But it’s that voice that immediately age increase since 1978. Enrollment of first-time freshmen rose 4.4 percent, overall 5.7 percent at the senior colleges, commands attention. At once she displays the She’s brought a photograph to show–little while transfer admissions grew by 5.9 percent overall. warm humor and comedic irony that readers Belushka, five years old, on her famous grand- The undergraduate enrollment of 174,844 is the highest since 1995. This is a 5.4 percent increase over last year’s first met in her hilarious and poignant memoir father’s lap. Of course, no one sees the resem- undergraduate enrollment, again the greatest one-year percentage increase since 1978. Freshman enrollment of 26,844 in Fall 2002 represents the largest entering freshman class since 1996. At the sen- of teaching English in an inner-city high blance, concentrating as they are on the sophis- ior colleges, the freshman class increased by 15,784, or 5.7 percent, the highest since 1989. school, Up The Down Staircase (1965), the ticated woman at the dais, marveling at her cul- Students admitted to CUNY’s baccalaureate programs reported the highest SAT scores (1095) since the SAT was book that made her reputation. Time Magazine tured intelligence and easy graciousness. “She required for admission to the senior colleges. The national average for students intending to enroll in a college this fall called it “easily the most popular novel about hasn’t missed a beat,” a woman in the front row is 1020. U.S. public schools in history.” whispers to her friend, not exactly sotto voce. The entering transfer class of 16,508 reached an all-time high this fall. The class is the largest since fall, 1975. The A magna cum laude graduate of Hunter The talk is forty minutes of studied but effort- current graduate student enrollment (29,203) is the highest since 1974. Among the largest gainers were City College in Manhattan, 13 percent; Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, 10.8 per- College, Bel Kaufman went on to win numer- less charm–stories, anecdotes, jokes about and cent; York College in Queens, 10.4 percent; and John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Manhattan, 9.0 percent. Among ous awards for short stories, fiction and nonfic- by Sholom Aleichem that reveal the teller as community colleges, Borough of Manhattan Community College and Hostos Community College in the Bronx each tion, and for a moving tribute to her famous much as the subject of her tales. She clearly has experienced gains of 9.7 percent. Overall community college enrollment is 66,092, the highest level since 1995. Papa, “Memories of My Grandfather,” from her audience in thrall. The occasion is the The City University of New York, the nation’s leading urban public university, comprises 11 senior colleges, six com- which she takes nuggets here and there on this Marymount Manhattan College Writing munity colleges, a graduate school, a law school and a medical school. More than 208,000 degree-credit students and October night. She chooses to attribute her Center’s 2nd Jack Burstyn Memorial Lecture, a more than 205,000 continuing and professional education students are enrolled throughout the five boroughs of the City of New York. For more information visit www.cuny.edu or call 1-800-CUNY-YES (1-800-286-9937). sense of humor to genes–to “Papa” Aleichem. series named in honor of the father of

Calendar of Events November 2002

Bank Street School for Children Preschool Services for 3-5 Year Olds Events (212) 875-4420 Theatre January 29, 2003, 10 AM - 1PM Opening Reception for 610 West 112 Street Three Hot Shows Portraits of Remembrance: Tuesday, November 5, 2002 - Beauty & The Beast Bringing Liberty Science Center to You! An Artist’s Response to the Holocaust. The 7-9 PM, SFC Open House - The Lion King Host LSC at your school, afterschool program, or Work of Diana Kurz Tuesday, December 3, 2002 - AIDA community event. Through assembly shows and Seton Hall University 7-9 PM, SFC Open House Call: 212-703-1040 or 800-439-9000 classroom workshops, we bring the excitement of November 10, 2002 Fax: 212-703-1085 LSC right to your location! A talk with Artist Diana Kurz and slide show in Community School District 3: Email: Kozlowski Auditorium followed by gallery tour and Gifted & Talented Program, [email protected] Classroom Workshops reception in Walsh Library Gallery. (212) 678-2897, Marilyn Carella Web: www.disneyonbroadway.com/groups Our classroom workshops, like our “Science 1:30 PM, FREE 300 West 96th St., NY 10025. Playground” program, are 30-45 min. in length and (973) 761-9006 Program is available at 8 different schools in are designed to accommodate up to 30 students per Manhattan. Workshops session. The initial program fee covers 4 workshops Portraits of Remembrance: An Artist’s at the same site, on the same day. Additional pro- Response to the Holocaust. The Work of Diana The ADD Resource Center The Sterling School: Practical help for living with attention and related grams can be purchased for an additional charge. Kurz (718) 625-3502 November 10- December 18, 2002 disorders, seminars, courses, workshops and serv- 299 Pacific Street, Brooklyn NY, 11201 ices for children, parents, adults, employers and Assembly Programs Seton Hall University November 14, 9:30 AM Walsh Library Gallery educators. Call in NYC (646) 205-8080 or Our assembly programs are 45 min.- 1 hr. in length February 24, 9:30 AM Westchester/CT (914) 763-5648, [email protected] and are designed to accommodate up to 350 stu- Monday - Friday, 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM, FREE March 26, 5-7 PM (973) 275-2033 dents at a time. The initial program fee covers one April 3, 9:30 AM Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc. assembly program. An additional program fee is The Sister Rose Thering Endowment for Or by appointment. 2002/2003 Free Workshops Series: What's out kept low to encourage to break-up audiences of var- Jewish-Christian Studies’ Annual Holiday there and how to get it... ious ages into smaller groups for a more meaning- Colloquium with artist Diana Kurz Smith School: Workshops for parents and professionals about pro- ful, age oriented experience. There are five assem- December 8, 2002 (212) 879-6354 grams, services and systems for New York City chil- bly program topics from which to choose, including Seton Hall University 7 East 96th Street dren and youth with disabilities. refreshments our new Weather assembly, debuting in October Kazlowski Hall Auditorium (between 5th & Madison Ave.), served. 2002! 1- 3 PM, FREE New York, NY (973) 761-9006 Call for appointment. In the Bronx All our current workshops and assembly programs At the New York Public Library, West Farms can be viewed under Educational Experiences at Green Meadow Waldorf School Branch, 2085 Honeywell Avenue, 10460 www.lsc.org. Open Houses Nursery-Grade 12 Open House - 11/24 (2-4 PM) Transition from School to Adult Life Although it is not specifically requested by every Introductory Session - 12/13 (8:30 AM) December 11, 2002, 10 AM - 1PM Please call (201) 451-0006 and speak with either school, readers are strongly advised to call schools 307 Hungry Hollow Road In Manhattan John Herrera x218, [email protected], or Jim to confirm dates and times and verify if appoint- Chestnut Ridge, NY, Rockland County At Resources for Children with Special Needs, McGlynn x340, [email protected], for further ments are needed. (854) 356-2514 116 East 16th Street, 5th floor, 10003 details. 29

November 2002 • Education Update More Questions than Answers Regarding Teaching and Technology By KIM BROWN “The democratization of technology has hap- vision about technology’s role in the depart- What do electronic football, a Japanese pened,” Glenn declared when he spoke about ment before allocating resources, hiring new teenager and a first year teacher have in com- technology today. As an example he cited Japan faculty or implementing change. mon? Professor Allen D. Glenn did great jokingly, “It is now a law in Japan you have to It is also important to have staff that can impressions of all three during his lecture, have a cell phone, you have to have it on and maintain the infrastructure. “You better have “Technology and Teacher Educators.” you have to use it with two thumbs to send someone who says ‘you can’t plug that into The speech was part of the culminating event messages.” that, if you do that you’re going to die.’” of NetTech-Making Technology Work in our He also pointed out one of the main differ- Glenn insists that tomorrow’s professors will Schools: A Forum for Education Leaders and ences between educators and students when it have new skills and will need to think about Decision Makers. The Conference was held comes to technology. Professors and teachers classroom instruction in new ways. The teacher recently at The Graduate Center of the City remember a time before the Internet, whereas will not only pose questions, he will also be a University of New York. students don’t. “Kids believe high tech is now co-learner in his classroom as more students If educators came looking for ways to inte- my tech,” he said. have advanced technology skills. Allen D. Glenn grate technology and teacher education, Glenn Pre-service teachers are also better prepared The role of information technology (IT) is did not provide them. Instead, the Dean to use technology as a part of instruction. also changing. Right now IT is best at provid- Emeritus and University of Washington According to Glenn, there are many ques- “Teachers are better, they’re smarter, they can ing access to information, but Glenn says the College of Education Professor doled out questions that educational leaders need to ask them- do more,” Glenn said. emergence of high speed Internet is increasing tions for deans, professors and administrators. selves about the use of technology in teacher Glenn ended the “Technology Today” part of the possibilities for educators. Kids can now “If you ask the wrong question the right education programs. There are questions about his lecture by telling the audience that if they come together from distant regions to create answer won’t help,” Glenn said, then laughed, personal skills like, “what messages are being want to know where technology is going all collaborative projects. “actually, I did that on my dissertation.” sent via my office about the use of technolo- they need to do is look at a Playstation. Educators must ensure government policy Allen D. Glenn began his career teaching at a gy?” Then there are questions about resources; “Remember the first electronic football game?” makers that technology is more than hardware public junior high school in Kansas. During the “what is being spent to support technology in he asked, then made beeping noises and moved and gimmicks, Glenn says. For that to happen 70s he saw how computers allowed for engag- the unit?” There are questions about hiring new like a robot across the stage. “We thought that the work of educators and its impact needs to ing simulations of real life problems in his faculty; “what funds are available to provide was cool. Now you can see the expressions on be documented. social studies classroom. He was hooked. Since new technologies for new faculty?” The list players’ faces.” “The only choice we face is who will shape then he has earned his Ph.D. in education and goes on. When it comes to technology and teacher this new education environment and who will focused much of his research on the use of In an energetic lecture that was part scholar- education, Glenn says it is no longer just the profit from it,” he said. And he left the audience technology to instruct students. He has served ly and part stand up comedy, Glenn covered hardware that’s important but the leadership. with one final question. “Who better than us?”# on several educational technology panels for three main areas: technology today, technology Although he admits to hating the word “vision” Allen D. Glenn can be reached at Miller the U.S. Office of Education and co-authored and teacher education and the future, albeit in he also says there is something powerful about Hall, Box 353600, Seattle WA 98195, 206-221- “Restructuring Schools with Technology.” general terms. it. Educational leaders need to define their 4790, [email protected] Panelists Weigh New Teaching Mediums DO EDUCATORS HAVE A By DEBORAH YOUNG “It’s exciting UTY TO REPARE TUDENTS Imagine what would happen if a Johnny and daunting D P S Appleseed character brought antibiotics to a and at the FOR IGITAL GE stone-age society. same time, it’s “D A ”? Without receiving instructions for the medi- a very interest- By KIM BROWN The WISE site qualifies as authentic intellec cine’s use, some tribe members might place the ing time in his- Cheryl Lemke caused quite a stir when she tual work, Lemke says. “These projects are rel- bottle on an altar and worship it, and others might tory,” he said. asked a room full of educators if they are com- evant beyond the school day, they foster disci- remove the pills and roll them over their bodies. The sea mitting malpractice. plined inquiry and require students to do some- “Very few of them, I wager, would take one change in The CEO of Metiri Group, a learning tech- thing with the knowledge they gain.” Teachers every four to six hours,” said Chris Dede, the communica- nology consulting firm, Lemke has more than can use the web site with their classes free of keynote speaker at the early October conference tions also 20 years experience in public education. In the charge. WISE only asks that educators notify “Making Technology Work in Our Schools.” means that stu- year 2000 she was identified as one of the 20 them in advance. Merely having access to high-tech tools does dents may be Margaret Honey most influential educators nationally in the Another example of project-based learning not magically boost learning, Dede told the more techno- field of learning and technology. Her lecture on the site utilizes a battleship game to teach crowd of roughly 200 educators at City logically sophisticated than their teachers, said titled “Technology-Based Solutions that students about slopes on a graph. University. Kimball, whose school district is within shouting Work,” was part of the conference “Making Visual literacy and self-directed learning are The key is incorporating technology into an distance of Microsoft headquarters. Technology Work in Our Schools.” two important skills that students gain when educational model that challenges stereotypes “What happens when the students know more Lemke cited a study that showed when they work on web-based projects. Lemke about schooling, he said. than the teachers,” Kimball said. “This is the gen- teachers use visualization in the classroom to showed a simple visual map that students cre- Discussions about technology opened the door eration ‘zap’ not ‘gap’“. solve real world problems, four times more ated, linking the causes and effects of bad to broader questions about teaching during an Even so, good teaching still stands on its own, students gain understanding “in a deep way.” breath. (Some effects are the loss of friends and evening that featured Dede, of the Harvard he said. “If we know what students need and we are visits to the dentist, according to students who Graduate School of Education, along with pan- And model technology education is expansive, not getting it to them is that the equivalent of developed the map.) Lemke also showed a elists Allen D. Glenn of the University of not reductive, Honey agreed. malpractice in the medical world?” more advanced project on www.pbs.kids.org Washington, Director of the Center for Children “There are upsides and downsides offered by After the silence several audience members that teaches girls about the reality behind the and Technology, Margaret Honey, and Chip the new technologies,” she said. “There is the spoke up. The consensus was the system, myth of modeling. One little known fact: mod- Kimball, Asst. Supt. at Lake Washington School potential for the mundane-such as Power Point as administrators and teacher education programs els use Preparation H to get rid of bags under District in Richmond WA. a motivational exercise in special effects-and are also to blame for the misuse and lack of use their eyes. Anthony Picciano of Hunter College moderat- there is thinking about technology and talking of technology, not only educators. But Lemke What actions can educators take to encour- ed. deeply and seriously about the kinds of learning got people to pay attention. age problem solving and research based learn- “We have many ways of teaching and learning we want kids to be engaged in.” “Are your students ready to thrive in a ing? First, get the digital age on your school’s that are really profound,” Dede said. “Within my For students at the High School for knowledge based society?” she asked. The radar screen, Lemke says. Next identify things lifetime it will be considered malpractice for peo- Environmental Studies on West 56th Street, unspoken answer was that many students are that work and make decisions based on stu- ple to teach with only one medium.” learning about technology went hand in hand not prepared for the digital age. dents’ learning needs. Finally, redefine success But educators must remain creative in “this age with inquiry and activism. Lemke pointed to the WISE web site to include information literacy and self-direct- of regressive schooling” and let go of socially They created a website based on ecological (www.immex.ucla.edu), a product of the ed learning. imbedded ideas about learning, he said. findings about Brooklyn’s polluted Gowanus University of California at Berkeley, as a way Lemke suggests that educators read profes- “Professional development means unlearning Canal, trading information via email with scien- for educators to start using technology for sional journals so that when they are asking for almost subconscious beliefs,” he said. “It’s not tists to further their knowledge. learning. Students can use the site as a guide things in their school it is research based. primarily intellectual; it’s also emotional and “Working on computers made it much more for scientific research. One example she “There must be high expectations for schools social.” convenient,” said senior Julia Curtis, who was showed the audience was the web-based proj- and pressure on schools to change,” Lemke Pedagogical flexibility is especially important among students displaying their technology- ect about how deformed frogs grow that way. says. “It’s a matter of being a squeaky wheel.” in the protean, ever-advancing field of technolo- based work during the networking reception after Students navigate through the site as they com- This conference was coordinated by Carolyn gy, where equity means more than counting the the speakers. “We had easy access to all kinds of plete their research with the help of online Everett, Director of Special Projects at CUNY ratio of computers to children, Dede said. information right in front of us.”# guidance and clues. Central. email: [email protected] 30 Award MARKETING SUPPLEMENT ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ NOVEMBER 2002 Winner Product Review LET YOUR CHILD FLY WITH SEEDS SOFTWARE’S INTRODUCTION TO AIRPLANE DESIGN By NEIL SCHULDINER Planning on purchasing gliders to teach your children or students the basics of aerospace principles? Instead, consider Seeds Software’s Introduction to Airplane Design, an interactive educational software “toy” that will enable your child to design and construct his or her own gliders while learning the theoretical concepts of flight. St u di ca Designed for grades seven through twelve, and compatible with both Windows and Introduction to Airplane Design then calculates Macintosh based computers (thanks to its the theoretical likelihood of the aircraft’s abili- hybrid CD), Introduction to Airplane Design ty to soar. If the program determines your plane consists of two components – tutorials and the should be grounded, the program cites your Real Glider sections. errors (perhaps your wing design or propulsion The tutorial component includes detailed variables were off) and offers recommenda- simulations, illustrations and diagrams that tions to alleviate your design flaws. If the educate users on concepts from Newton’s laws user’s design can “take off,” it prints out of motion to simulations exemplifying gravity, detailed instructions and diagrams to assemble lift, thrust and drag. Such simulations often- your model aircraft. times include interactive components which While Introduction to Airplane Design could allow users to input variables relating to wing benefit from improved graphics and more design, pitch, angle of attack, etc. — and see sophisticated animations, it’s difficult not to rec- the real-time effects of such alterations. In one ommend the program. With lesson plans, quizzes such tutorial, students enter data relating to the and answer sheets for teachers, and concise user concept of “lift,” and interactively alter an ani- instructions for parents, Seeds Software has cre- mated simulation of airflow over an airfoil. ated a product both teachers, parents and children The Glider section, Introduction to Airplane are sure to take to the skies!# Design’s most intriguing component, lets stu- Introduction to Airplane Design by Seeds dents and children apply the concepts of aero- Software (email: [email protected]; dynamics that they learned in the tutorial com- Web: www.Seeds2Learn.com; 206-782-0914). ponent—in the design of an actual flyable glid- Windows System Requirements: Windows er. Based on such variables as wing and fuse- 95/98/NT/2000/XP, 20 to 25 MB of RAM, 50 lage dimensions and horizontal and vertical Mhz processor; Macintosh System T ORCOMP stabilizers entered by the user, the program Requiremnts: Mac Power PC, Mac OS 7.3 to constructs an image of a model craft. OSX, 15 MB of avaiable RAM.

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it is evident that language is not the most effective tool for GETTING UNSTUCK IN MATH implanting a fluent memory of number facts, either. BY JEFF SIMPSON After years of teaching, I discovered a way to use guided Math low-achievers have two basic problems: they don’t discovery and rapid reconstruction to unify the process of con- understand it, and don’t remember it. When we explain it, cept and memory development. It makes concepts clear and they don’t get it. And they fail to connect what they have builds memory in a multi-sensory way, enabling students to These are the Reasons If you have the desire and a good memorized to what they understand–if they can memorize at remember number relationships in a fluent, context-derived, We needed to work ethic, you can become all. concept-based, mathematical way–without rote memory. Work from home... successful with our internet-based Nowadays we address this problem by focusing on con- The materials for implementing the method began modest- ceptual development, using constructive experiences to com- ly as sets of pages to help specific children with learning chal- What’s Yours? business opportunity. municate mathematical meaning–since language alone does- lenges. Gradually, they turned into a dozen books of supple- We provide... n’t instill an understanding of numerical relationships. But mental materials in the Count, Notice, and Remember series. • FREE Websites comprehension does not guarantee fluency. Three of the books were adopted as a partial program by • Unlimited Supporting/Training And fluency is required for efficient problem-solving at high- the State of California. The State’s Instructional Materials • NO Deliveries er thinking levels. Advisory Panel report describes the program as: “...superb • NO Billings or Collections Pragmatic constructivists strive to develop both under- and ingenious...a methodical way to ensure success for all • NO Selling or Home Parties standing and memory. students...efficient and effective....” • NO RISK and...it’s GUARANTEED! But while we no longer rely upon language devices to fos- Here is an example of Count, Notice, & Remember’s ter understanding, we do depend upon them for developing impact on low-achievers. A school in the Los Angeles area Check us out and see for yourself. memory. For lack of better alternatives, we still turn to tradi- identified a number of children who tested below 25% accu- tional memorization strategies: flash cards, choral skip-count- racy on basic multiplication, in spite of their teachers’ best Working At Home Parents ing, etc.. These language-based memorization strategies efforts. These students worked with CN&R two or three hours We have helped thousands earn an income from home.We can help you too! focus on the words for answers, not on making mathematical a week for sixteen weeks, and a teacher measured the results Visit us online at perceptions themselves familiar. Judging from the fact that as a focus for her master’s thesis. At the conclusion of the www.homebasedparents.com some pupils still cannot remember math facts and processes, study, every child achieved 100 percent accuracy. This inductive approach uses simple commands, questions, and challenges with two-dimensional manipulatives to engage students’ natural power to notice, and develops Do your homeschool children need help with writing? memory in the same way that we learn our way around a Mine did. Now writing is easy for them! new city: by remembering, rather than memorizing. The process compels students to make the connection between They used to stare at blank sheets of paper, not knowing how to start. Then I developed fill-in-the-blank writing forms and a manipulation and computation, and provides individual writer’s reference guide that they could keep in their binder with all the information they would need to pass the state writ- accountability in a cooperative learning setting–and doesn’t ing proficiency test. I’ve now made Ten Minutes to Better Study Skills and the Writers Easy Reference Guide, the two books leave out students with learning disabilities or limited I developed for my own children, available to other teachers, parents, and students! English proficiency. - Bonnie Terry, M. Ed. CN&R is used in a number of school districts in California, and in other states — often for intervention and resource programs. After using it in summer school, one California principal said, “The kids love it, and the math gains were incredible!” For more information, contact Mastery Learning Use 10 Minutes to Writer’’s Systems, 532 N. Better Study Skills for: Easy Reference Guide: School St., Ukiah, CA 95482; 800-533-4181; mas- 1. Note taking 1. Paragraph writing tips terylearningsystems.com 2. Paragraph writing 2. Writing the four basic essays [email protected]. 3. Essay Writing 3. Steps of the writing process 4. Research Paper Organizers 4. Grammatical & literary terms 5. Test Taking Tips & More 5. Writing a bibliography

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800+4plus4=8! (800-475-8748) www.mortensenmathdirect.com NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ EDUCATION UPDATE Award 35 Winner HOMESCHOOLING STUDENT JOURNALIST STUDENT CONTESTS H.S. PROGRAMS ABROAD: Craftsman/NSTAYoung Inventors Awards travel to England for a Shakespearean study Program tour. ADVANCING NOTHING MORE Challenges students to use creativity and (212) 818-1800, www.info@english- imagination along with science, technology speakingunion.org THAN RESUMES? and mechanical ability to invent or modify a tool. International Open Poetry Contest Entries must be received by March 4, 2003. The International Library of Poetry will be By RUTH HUPART beings and I felt comfortable talking and joking Two national winners will each receive a awarding $58,000 in prizes this year in the The Oxford Advanced Studies Program lets with them. They, in turn, felt comfortable with $10,000 savings bond. Other prizes range from poetry contest. Poets, particularly beginners, high school-age students from many countries giving us free reign in the city of Oxford. This $250-$500 in savings bonds. are welcome to try to win their share of over take classes and live in the dorms at Magdalen freedom was bliss. At a Johns Hopkins’ CTY (888) 494-4994, 250 prizes. The deadline for the contest is College in Oxford, England. The course lasts course two years ago I wasn’t permitted to www.nsta.org/programs/craftsman December 31, 2002. The contest is open to for four weeks. Here is my experience. cross the street without supervision. In Oxford everyone and entry is free. After waiting on line for twenty minutes, I we were encouraged to explore the culture of Christopher Columbus Awards To enter, send one original poem, any subject was relieved when it was finally my turn to fill the centuries old city of scholars. Widening our Challenge middle school students to explore and style, to: The International Library of my tray with dinner. Unable to recognize the cultural understanding was also enforced by the opportunities for positive change in their com- Poetry, Suite 19915, 1 Poetry Plaza, Owing food presented before me I asked the cafeteria several nationalities that were represented in munities. Mills, MD 21117. The poem should be 20 lines woman, as politely as I could, to please tell me the student body. There were students from Entries must be received by January 31, or less, and the poet’s name and address should the name of several dishes. Japan, Kuwait, Bahrain, and countless other 2003. appear at the top of the page. Entries are also “Shar, ‘tis fursh lib and eh coo bloh,” she countries. Another of the program’s high points Prizes include a trip to Disney World, and being accepted online at www.poetry.com.# responded in Yorkshire tones. was that it gave a taste of the Oxbridge system savings bonds of $25,000–$36,000. The closest translation for her garbled words of education. In addition to group lessons, each (800) 291-6020, www.christophercolumbu- Are you a student interested in that I could come up with was, “Sure, it’s some week I had a one-on-one tutorial with my sawards.com having your work published? lovely frogs’ legs with a hint of cow’s blood.” instructor. The universities of Oxford and My classes at the Oxford Advanced Studies Cambridge are famous for their tutorials, which 20th Annual Teen Shakespeare Submit your article by Program were nearly as incomprehensible as are designed to give each student a thorough Competition email([email protected]) the dining hall wait staff. While I was perfectly understanding of a chosen topic. While my The English-Speaking Union of the United or fax 212-481-3919. able to understand the clipped British accents Shakespeare tutorials were necessary ordeals, States organizes the contest, which will send 76 Visit www.EducationUpdate.com and of my Shakespeare and physics teachers, their my physics tutorials were usually characterized national winners to compete at Lincoln Center see our current and archived articles. educational philosophies were completely for- by animated conversations about why different in April, 2003. One winner will be chosen to eign. Nothing in all my years of public school- instruments produce different sound qualities ? ing prepared me for the shock of hearing a or how it’s possible that the universe may be teacher tell me, “I’m not interested in your shaped like a saddle. The physics teacher was a opinions.” Although these may not be his exact qualified man whom I respected and who had a Understand Math words, they convey the all too blunt message. I great deal to teach. But there were only five could have forgiven my teacher for having such hours of class each week, and none of this time Don't Just Memorize It! a closed-minded point of view if his opinions was spent doing lab studies. It boggles the alone were enough to sustain my interest for mind how a basic science course can be taught You use systematic phonics to teach reading because each hour-long Shakespeare class. Instead, without the fun and experience of experimenta- there is a system to reading and, if you know the system, each class consisted of copying simple notes tion. A class that had the potential to be full of you can read anything. Then why not teach mathematics in the same way? from a dry erase blackboard and listening to the intellectual discoveries became merely It is systematic and should be taught that way rather than the random method instructor’s muted and monotonous voice mediocre because the academic timetable was ∑ drone on for nearly an hour. After the first three so poorly planned. most programs use. I teach math systematically on tape, the÷ way I have been doing it since 1962. It works, it runs itself, it is economical, your children days, no one even tried to bring up a dissenting My expectations surrounding these classes + perspective in class. We were forced into sub- were high. The words “Oxford Advanced will learn it and you will love it. mission by our teacher’s implications that our Studies Program” made me feel like I was minds were only fit to learn the basic plots of going to be immersed in an intellectual and SYSTEMATIC MATHEMATICS™ Shakespearean plays and the general themes academic environment for four weeks of my (866) Learn-It and that original interpretation was beyond our summer vacation. I didn’t find out until later mental capabilities. that it is general knowledge that an overseas Despite my feelings that the Shakespeare course of study for American high school stu- www.systemath.com class was completely unsatisfying, the Oxford dents is only code for “Party! Get the chance to Advanced Studies Program did have its high write on your college transcript that you stud- points. Although my intellectual maturity was ied in Oxford one summer! Don’t forget, a under question in the Shakespeare classroom, bonus of studying here is that the legal smok- this was the first summer program I attended ing age is 16!”# where I felt that I wasn’t patronized by coun- Ruth Hupart is a junior at Ardsley H.S., New selors or R.A.s. The R.A.s (R.T.s, rather, for York. “residential tutor”) respected us as human

NOVEMBER IN HISTORY COMPILED By CHRIS ROWAN Veteran’s Day November was originally the ninth month on Since 1954, all Americans who served in the Roman calendar, and its name came from the wartime have been honored on November 11th. Latin word for nine, “novem.” In 46 B.C. Julius Veteran’s Day replaced Armistice Day – which Caesar(100 B.C.– 44 B.C.) reformed the calen- commemorated the day in 1918 when fighting dar and gave November its present 30 days. ended in World War I. Thanksgiving November 9th-Revolution, Rampage, Unity In 1621, Governor William Bradford of In 1918, Revolutionists overthrew the Plymouth Colony authorized a three-day Germany Monarchy. Celebration of the Harvest. The celebration In 1938, Anti-Jewish mobs went on rampages wasn’t repeated the following year, and it was- throughout Nazi Germany. This event became n’t until the 1800’s that states began celebrating known as Kristallnacht – Night of the Broken Thanksgiving as an annual custom. (New York Glass. adopted the holiday in 1817). Thanksgiving In 1989, the Berlin Wall came down, effectively became a national holiday when President ending the Cold War division of Germany. Lincoln proclaimed a national day of obser- November 22 – Assassination vance in 1863. It now falls on the fourth In 1963, President John F. Kennedy was shot Thursday of November. to death in Dallas.# 36 Award EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ NOVEMBER 2002 Winner MOVIES & THEATER Teen Trauma:White Oleander; Gun Culture: Bowling for Columbine By JAN AARON daughter to being carted off to jail. From then on America’s gun culture. Using the Columbine teen by Warner Brothers; Bowling, documentary, by Adapted from Janet Fitch’s best selling novel, they are tied together through Astrid’s visits to her shooting spree as a focal point, Moore ranges far United Artists. For film locales and showtimes, White Oleander traces the chaotic life of a mid- mother in prison and the letters Ingrid sends out. and wide–sometimes putting a bit too much of his call 777-FILM).# teen, Astrid Magnussen, who is placed in a series As the years pass, Astrid, who narrates the story, POV in the picture. (Oleander, PG-13, distributed of foster homes, when her artist-mother, Ingrid, is lives in a series of foster homes which change her sentenced to prison for killing her latest boyfriend. from pampered young woman to street-wise punk SPORTS Fans of the book will be surprised to see how well who collects and resells old clothes. The most Mary Agnes Donoghue’s script adaptation brings moving foster mom at the Malibu home of an it to the screen. It’s no big jolt that in the movie unemployed actor, Claire (Renee Zellweger) “KINDNESS PREVAILS” IN Ingrid is an artist instead of a poet. For educators, clings to Astrid as her marriage fails. both novel and film can prompt classroom discus- Astrid also meets a young comic book artist COMPETITIVE SKATEBOARDING sion about parental bonds and finding your own Paul (Patrick Fugit, Almost Famous) in a county way. facility where they are being held between homes. By TOM KERTES on both days. “I don’t Director Peter Kosminsky (TV film Warriors) Their bond becomes a relationship that turns into Baseball? Football? Basketball? know what I love about beautifully captures the rich and turbulent mother- a way out of a degrading life. In the end, however, Soccer? No (and no, and no, and no.) skateboarding,” he pon- daughter conflict between Astrid, brilliantly the bruised but resilient Astrid emerges as a talent- Not one of these enormously popular dered. “But it just makes played by newcomer Alison Lohman, and the ed conceptual artist in her own right. American and/or world sports could me feel so-o-o-o-o domineering Ingrid, an exceptional Michelle Essential film going also is Bowling for claim to be the number one participa- good.” Pfeiffer. In the quick-paced opening scenes, Ingrid Columbine, an often-successful attempt by tory athletic activity for young people “It’s an individual goes from passing her Viking theory of life to her Michael Moore (Roger & Me) to examine under 25 in the United States last sport where you can be year. Shockingly, the list was topped as creative as you want by skateboarding (and its close rela- to be,” mom, Maureen, tive, in-line skating) with an indeed chimed in. “It’s a fantas- impressive number of 26 million. tic exercise to use your Unfortunately, injuries serious energies on–and it’s also enough to require professional med- a great way for kids to ical care–are almost equally prevalent make friends.” MAKE LEARNING in the sport (more than a 100,000 a “You don’t have to year). “It is very important to empha- Andy Macdonald deal with the pettiness, size that these sports can be dangerous violence, and all the other AN EVEN BIGGER if the proper safety precautions are not extracurricular stuff that taken,” said Alan M. Muney, chief medical offi- team sports are unfortunately so filled with these cer at Oxford Health Plans. “And also the fact days,” Mrs.Villone added. “As a matter of fact, that wearing the appropriate safety gear and while kids of the same age are certainly compet- using proper skating techniques can go a long itive in this sport, I’ve been extremely impressed EXPERIENCE. way in preventing serious injuries.” by how the older kids tend to take the younger In order to promote this concept, Oxford has ones under their wings as kind of mentors.” created the Lid-Zone, a grassroots program in “It’s really nice to watch. In this sport, kind- the Tri-State area where kids 10-18 years of age ness prevails.” can skate, compete with each other in “best And creativity, too. The participants at trick” contests, see demonstrations by the best in Riverside Park–the only outdoor court on the the sport–and also hear the superstars talk about Lid-Zone Tour–doing all kinds of flips (ollies), the essence of safety. “Hearing (8-time X- somersaults, and a myriad of other tricks over Games gold medallist) Andy McDonald, (visit- the pipes, half-pipes, boxes, and various other ing pro at the famed in-line training facility metallic equipment, were somewhere north of Camp Woodward) Matt Lindemuth, and other spectacular. “I predict that this might become an top-notch guys talk about safe skating gives our Olympic sport one day soon,” Mr. Villone said. message the needed ‘star appeal’ to truly influ- “This sport, the skills it requires, is actually very ence young people,” Dr. Muney said. similar to gymnastics. And if snowboarding is in Indeed, the quintet of Lid-Zone events, held the Winter Olympics, making skateboarding a over a two-week period in September, have been Summer Olympic sport would be the logical a rousing success. “We’ve had over 1,000 peo- next step.” ple at Rampage Park on Long Island yesterday,” As it appears right now, the U. S. has an excel- elated organizer Shea Sweeney said. “And lent chance to host the 2012 Games. If it ever another 1,000-plus today in New York City. happens–and seeing the enthusiasm and athleti- That’s more attention and enthusiasm that we cism of the competitors, it just might–that would ever could hope for.” be the time to look for skateboarding as a first- Kids like 11-year-old Giorgio Villone attended time Olympic event.# FACULTY JOBS Free listings provided by Education Update. Email your listings to [email protected] or fax (212) 481-3919.

Dual Language Teacher for IS 90, P/T Teachers needed (k-12) an up and coming middle school in the Washington Basic skill instruction in reading, writing, math Heights area of and SAT prep. Flexible schedules (Mon.-Sat.) Manhattan. Call 212-927-8296 Great Opportunity for retirees, recent grads, or between jobs. Certification, private school, or SAT prep experience required. Teacher Vacancy PS 811Q @ IS 227 Fax resumes 212-534-0482 NY State/City Special Education Licensed teacher needed for innovative inclusion program at IS 227Q, the Louis Armstrong Middle School in East Elmhurst, Educationally progressive high school in the Queens. Students with disabilities are placed in Brighton Beach section of Brooklyn is looking for like individuals comfortable with Math A. Please general education classes, fifth through eighth forward resumes by e-mail to grades, with the supports of the special education [email protected] teacher and paraprofessionals. The ratio is two special-needs children to a general education class, with one paraprofessional and approximately eight-ten Assistant Principal Positions students on the special education teacher’s register. at Canarsie______High School The teacher provides both direct and indirect instruc- Assistant Principal Biological and Physical Sciences as announced in Circular #1 Sept., 2002 Broadway & 68th Street, NYC • www.enjoytheshow.com/imax tional services to the children, team teaches, and ______coordinates the services of the paraprofessionals. Assistant Principal Administration Group Sales 212.336.5025 • Showtimes and Information 212.336.5000 Employer is District 75, Pupil Personnel Services as announced Advance Tickets 800.555.TELL New York City Department of Education. in Circular______#2 Oct., 2002 Contact PS 811Q principal Joan Washington Applicants must send appropriate documentation to at (718) 224-8060. Supt. Charles Majors Office of Brooklyn High Schools NOVEMBER 2002 ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE Award 37 Winner MODERN LANGUAGES The Debate Over English Language Acquisition By KARA H. STEIN & HEIDI FISHER The debate between proponents of traditional scores on standardized exams. linguistic, social, and economic mainstream of In the past decade, as the student population bilingual education programs–which use stu- In June 2000, the American Jewish American society and thus strongly opposes in the U.S. has grown increasingly ethnically dents’ native languages to help them learn Committee (AJC), an organization dedicated to legislation that mandates one methodology or and linguistically diverse, the debate around English and content areas–and those who favor improving education and advocacy for human approach over another. Schools should have English language acquisition has come to the an English language immersion rights around the world, adopted a statement in access to a range of options that can be tailored forefront of national educational policy. In approach–teaching new English learners only which it reaffirmed its commitment to public to meet the needs of students, based on their 2001, for example, almost 3 million students in in English–is being played out across the coun- education. It stated, “AJC believes there must backgrounds, prior levels of educational attain- the U.S. were enrolled in programs for English try. For example, legislation that severely be a rededication to public education on the ment, age, and knowledge of specific content language learners; approximately 75 percent of restricts or completely eliminates bilingual national, state, community, and family levels so areas. Whichever program or methodology these students are from nations whose principal education was enacted in California in 1998 that the public schools can fulfill their promise schools decide to use, AJC believes that its pri- language is Spanish. Moreover, the majority of and Arizona in 2000. Similar initiatives will be as democratic institutions and launching pads mary aim should be facilitating students’ profi- English language learners have matriculated voted on this fall in Massachusetts and of opportunity for all children.” In keeping with ciency in English as quickly as possible. into public school systems in urban and rural Colorado. this position, AJC believes that the ultimate The education of America’s diverse children areas, which face increasingly restricted physi- Exacerbating the problem is the fact that new goal of public schools is to prepare all students is a matter of concern to all of us. Our public cal and pedagogical resources and a lack of English language learners, previously exempt to be full participants in American civic life schools must find a way to teach English lan- qualified (i.e., fully certified and/or competent- from many standardized exams, are now and to maximize their chances for individual guage learners both English and subject matter ly-trained) English language acquisition required by federal law to take most of these success. content. The health of our democracy depends instructors. Schools now face the challenge of tests. This only increases the need for innova- Applying these principles to the English lan- upon it.# educating more English language learners than tive and effective ways of educating these stu- guage acquisition debate, AJC believes that Kara H. Stein is Assistant Legal Director of ever before–in the midst of rising academic dents, since in some cases decisions about both bilingual and English-only immersion the American Jewish Committee. Heidi Fisher standards, diminished resources, and an monetary rewards and sanctions for individual approaches can be effective ways of incorpo- is Public Education Consultant to the American increasingly technology-based economy. schools and districts are based on students’ rating new English language learners into the Jewish Committee.

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Putting Democracy Student Drug Testing Expands – Again

BY MARTHA MCCARTHY demic and increased drug use in the school dis- in the People’s Hands Concerns over student and staff safety in pub- trict itself. The Court further noted that a BY MAYOR MICHAEL lifetime. With an unelected Mayor at the helm, lic schools are manifesting themselves in zero- demonstrated drug abuse problem is not always R. BLOOMBERG government operations could suffer, long-term tolerance policies and stringent disciplinary necessary to justify implementation of a suspi- planning could come to a standstill, and a cli- practices. One of the most controversial strate- cion-less drug-testing program. When I appointed a Commission to study mate of uncertainty would likely prevail. “In an gies is to subject students to urinalysis screen- Even before the Earls decision, public school changes to the City’s Charter, I suggested they ever-changing world where cities compete on a ing for drug use. students could be subjected to urinalysis with propose amending the line of mayoral succes- daily basis for jobs, tourists and businesses, the In June, 2002, the United States Supreme reasonable suspicion of drug use. But courts sion, so that the Deputy Mayor would serve as costs of having an unelected Mayor in office Court delivered an important decision, Board of have not spoken in unison as to what it takes to Acting Mayor for a limited period of time if the for up to fifteen months could be crippling. Education v. Earls, in which it upheld a school establish such reasonable suspicion. In 1999, Mayor dies while in office or has to leave office At its core, our democracy works better when district’s program that requires all middle and the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Willis v. prematurely. The Commission considered it, we fill vacancies through elections, rather than high school students to consent to urinalysis Anderson did not find reasonable suspicion to and ultimately, they decided to place a different through unelected, long-term interim succes- testing for drugs as a prerequisite to participa- test all students as a condition of returning to issue on this year’s ballot: holding a special sors. tion in extracurricular activities. Although in school if they had been suspended for various election in sixty days if there’s a vacancy in the That’s why the City’s Charter already man- practice only students participating in competi- offenses, including fighting and truancy, as mayoralty, but leaving the line of succession as dates that vacancies in every other City tive activities have been tested, the reach of the there was not a sufficient connection between it is. I think it makes a lot of sense. Here’s why: office–from the City Council to the policy is far broader. those behaviors and drug use. The court further If something happens to the Mayor, the vot- Comptroller–be filled by special elections. Reversing the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, observed that unlike students who elect to par- ers should be able to choose are placement as That reasoning applies to the Office of Mayor the Supreme Court in Earls relied heavily on its ticipate in extracurricular activities, the students quickly as possible. That’s what democracy is more than anywhere else, and it’s exactly what 1995 decision, Vernonia School District 47J v. who have been suspended have not voluntarily all about. And by requiring a special election to the proposed change to the City’s Charter Acton, in which it upheld random drug testing consented to be drug tested. be held sixty days after a vacancy occurs, the would accomplish. of student athletes in public schools. In both The need to establish reasonable suspicion on proposed change to the Charter would put the When you head into the voting booth on cases the Court found no violation of the Fourth an individual basis may decline if the Supreme business of choosing a new Mayor exactly November 5, please don’t forget that this Amendment’s protection against unreasonable Court continues to expand the category of stu- where it belongs: in the people’s hands. important proposal–one that puts our City’s government searches. The Court in Earls con- dents who can be subjected to blanket or ran- Currently, if the Mayor dies while in office or future in your hands–is on the ballot. However cluded that students participating in extracurric- dom urinalysis. The majority of secondary stu- leaves prematurely, the voters may have to wait you choose to vote, by weighing in on charter ular activities have a limited expectation of pri- dents participate in at least one extracurricular up to fifteen months until they can elect a new reform, you’ll reinforce what this proposal is vacy as they voluntarily subject themselves to activity, so they can now be tested for drug use. Mayor. By any standard, fifteen months is a all about: letting the people decide.# many of the same privacy invasions as do stu- Although school districts have not implemented long time. In a city as fast-paced as ours, it’s a dent athletes. The Court also noted that the suspicion-less drug-testing programs for their intrusion on privacy is not significant, given entire student bodies, given the Supreme CAREERS that a faculty monitor waits outside the closed Court’s rulings in Acton and Earls, there may be restroom stall while the student produces the movement in this direction.# urine sample. The Supreme Court was con- Martha McCarthy, Ph.D. is the Chancellor ROUND THE LAKE WITH ANDRES vinced of the need for the program, given the Professor, School of Education, Indiana evidence presented of a nationwide drug epi- University. GARCIA-PEÑA, GONDOLIER By TOM KERTES ever they want to know about.” Then he sings third of all, it pays.” A ride costs $30.00 for a When you think of riding in a gon- to the customers, preferably the same Italian half an hour, split evenly with his employer dola, you think of one of the myriad love songs–“O, Solo Mio,” “Nights in (The Boathouse Cafe). In addition, more often canals dissecting the ancient Italian Sorrento”–that his Venetian counterparts do. than not, Garcia-Peña receives a grand gratuity city of Venice. A large lake in New All this while dressed in full gondolier regalia, due to his charm, enthusiasm, and keen insight York City is about the last thing to with the big straw hat, the striped shirt, the into the romantic aspects of the experience. come to mind. whole thing. “To complete the experience,” “That’s the one thing I lie just a little about,” Yet not only is there a gondola glid- Garcia-Peña smiles, “I want it to be one of total he smiles. “When we get to the bridge, I tell ing majestically on Central Park’s big fantasy.” young couples–many on a first date–that there lake, “it is there by design,” gondolier In many ways, the personable 41-year-old is an old legend: if you kiss under this bridge Andres Garcia-Peña avers. “When Garcia-Peña lives a life of total fantasy. A suc- you will kiss under a bridge in Venice. Ninety- Frederick Low Olmstead created cessful artist educated at Greenwich Village’s nine percent of the time, it really starts some- Central Park in 1850–the only man- Cooper Union College–and now living in a thing.” made park to remain totally true to 5000 square foot loft in Williamsburg, Gondoliering is not only fun work but an nature–he desired to acquire a dis- Brooklyn with his wife and three-month old excellent workout as well, according to Garcia- tinctly European flavor to this partic- daughter–he’s had dozens of showings of his Peña. The sculling with a single oar involves a ular part of the park.” paintings in some of the finest New York gal- row-cut-and-steer motion in the water that Italy became a nation-state in 1868, leries. His style is surrealist yet accessible, “makes a 20-30 pound difference in my body the same year the Park finally opened. “something along the lines of Salvador Dali weight over the course of six months,” he says. Thus, near the Bethesda Fountain, the and Magritte,” he says. He paints his life expe- Garcia-Peña, who was born in Milan, Italy to columns on the buildings are of a rience, including but not limited to his second Colombian parents but has lived in New York Roman style. Hence, gondolas. existence as a gondolier. He sells five or so since the age of 2, took over the gondolier gig Eight of them, originally. paintings a year–the highest price ever was from his retiring cousin. “In gondoliering, it’s This is only one of the many his- $7,000–enough to feel elated about his art, but not what you know–it’s who you know,” he toric tidbits the personable Garcia- not necessarily to make a living. quips. He’s had everyone from Bruce Willis to Peña– now the lone gondolier in the The gondola gig “is the greatest second job in Spike Lee to George Clooney to Tony Bennett park–regales his clientele with. “I see the world,” he says. “First of all, I love it. in his boat in the seven years he’s been The myself as a communicator and enter- Beautiful park, beautiful lake, dealing with all Man on the Lake. “I can safely say they all tainer,” he says. “I tell them about the kinds of nice people–what’s there not to love? enjoyed themselves immensely,” he says. “This Andres Garcia-Peña history of the park, of the surrounding Secondly, it’s a six month-a year job, from 5-10 is a dream job where you have the power to buildings such as The Dakota, what- in the evening. The perfect part time gig. And make all kinds of dreams come true.”# 34 NOVEMBER 2002 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ RESOURCE & REFERENCE GUIDE 39 Resource &Reference Guide To most people R & R means rest & relaxation. To LECTURE: Ballet and Modern Dance in Russia Today to over 75 of the best fitness clubs in New York and the tri-state TEACHER PLACEMENT Education Update, R & R means Resources & Monday, November 11. area. Includes NY Health and Racquet, Bally’s, Crunch, New References around the city. The listings that follow will Titsworth Lecture Hall, 5:30 PM, Free York Sports, Gold’s Gym, World Gym, all the Y’s, and much Manhattan Placements, 501 East 79th Street, (212) 288-3507 help you gain greater knowledge of the city’s enor- A panel discussion with Anna Kisselgoff, ballet critic for the more. Call the American Health and Fitness Alliance at 212-808- A personal and highly effective placement company for mous and enriching array of offerings. New York Times; Wendy Perron, New York editor of Dance 0765 (24 Hrs.) to order or for info. Hurry, they’re going fast! teachers, administrators and department heads serving New York, New Jersey and Connecticut independent schools. BOOKS Magazine; and Kate Pride, Sarah Lawrence Alumna, 2003. For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. LANGUAGES Bank Street Bookstore, 112th St. & Bway; (212) 678-1654 SINGLISH TUTORS Exceptional selection of books for children, teachers and par- LECTURE: Women in the Hip Hop Industry 877-375-7464(SING); www.singlish.com ents. Knowledgeable staff. Free monthly newsletter. Open Wednesday, November 13. Build Languages The Fun Way! Accelerating language and Math Tutoring Mon-Thurs 10-8 PM, Fri & Sat 10–6 PM, Sun 12–5 PM. Titsworth Lecture Hall, 6 PM, Free High School and Junior High. Two Sample Hours, No learning through traditional kid’s songs. Visit our website or Carmen Ashhurst-Woodward, who has worked in the top ech- Charge. Arithmetic to Advanced Calculus. Call (212) 228- call: 877-375-SING. Logos Books, 1575 York Avenue , (@ 84th Street), elons of the hip hop industry, will share her perspective on 1642 / (917) 297-2389 (212) 517-7292 women in hip hop. A former president of Def Jam Recordings, MEDICINE & HEALTH SERVICES Kumon Math & Reading Centers, A charming neighborhood bookstore located in Yorkville fea- Ashhurst-Woodward has had a long career in the music Psychotherapy, A Jungian Approach, 1(800)ABC-MATH www.kumon.com turing quality selections of classics, fiction, poetry, philosophy, industry. For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. (646) 221-9135 Kumon offers students of all ages and abilities a convenient, religion, bibles and children’s books, as well as greeting • Dreams • Gender • Culture • Relationships affordable learning program to build academic skills. Over cards, gifts and music. Books can be mailed. Outdoor terrace. PERFORMANCE: The Greg Skaff Quartet Plays Jazz Wednesday, November 13. Paul Stein • Licensed • 30 years experience 100 locations throughout New York and Connecticut. For HIGH MARKS IN CHEMISTRY Reisinger Concert Hall, 8 PM, $10/$8 Senior Citizens. Henry Ettinger, O.D., F.A.A.O.,(212) 265-4609 general information call: 1-800-ABC-MATH. Visit our website 1-877-600-7466 For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. Is Your Child Easily Distracted? at www.kumon.com Over 40,000 books sold. HIGH MARKS: REGENTS CHEM- Concentration is adversely affected by poor visual processing PERFORMANCE: Student Dance Concert Solve & Prevent Reading & Writing Difficulties ISTRY MADE EASY BY SHARON WELCHER (College skills. Recent studies show these skills can be dramatically November 15 & 16. Bessi Schonberg Dance Theatre, Jacquelyn Bonomo, Ed.D., 212-774-0724 Teacher, Chairperson and teacher of high school review cours- improved (three year + gains in 10 weeks, in some cases) with Performing Arts Center, 8 PM, Free es). This book is your private tutor- Easy review book for NEW one-on-one therapy. Dr. Henry Ettinger and staff provide a free Licensed Reading & Learning Specialist 19 yrs. private prac- Reservations are required by calling the Dance Department regents (second edition) with hundreds of questions and solu- screening for children who struggle with reading. For more tice. Diagnosis, tutoring grades 1 thru adult. From phonics for at (914) 395-2433 tions, Get HIGH MARKS $10.95. Available at Leading book information please call (212) 265-4609, www. nyvision.org reading & spelling to study skills, reading efficiency for adults, stores or call (718) 271-7466. www.HighMarksInSchool.com PERFORMANCE: Sarah Lawrence College Orchestra in NYU Child Study Center, writing & SAT. Upper East Side Location. Concert- “Less is (Sometimes) More” 550 First Avenue, NYC; (212) 263-6622. CAMPS. The NYU Child Study Center, a comprehensive treatment TUTORING AND ENRICHMENT Tuesday, November 19. Reisinger Hall, 8 PM, Free YOUR CHILD CAN BLOSSOM! Sol Goldman YM-YWHA of the Educational Alliance, The Sarah Lawrence College Orchestra, conducted by Martin and research center for children’s psychological health at NYU Medical Center, now offers specialized services for (212) 348-9366 344 E. 14th Street, New York, N.Y. 10003, Goldray, will perform Minimalist masterpieces for chamber Traditional and Progressive Teaching (212) 780-0800 orchestra and soloists. This event is the culmination of a attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety-related problems, consultations for learning disabilities and giftedness, Reading Skills • Writing Skills • Math The New Town Day Camp, for children ages 2.9-6.0 years, is series of lectures on Minimalism in art and music, delivered All Test Preparation • Homework Help located at the Sol Goldman Y of The Educational Alliance, on consecutive Wednesdays beginning October 23. and seminars on parenting and child development. Call for more information. Call Ms. Caroll (212) 348-9366, Licensed Teacher, NYC 344 E. 14th Street. The camp provides outdoor activities Speakers will include composer Philip Glass, Judith Orton Gillingham Trained, Upper East Side Location including rooftop playground and sprinkler time, and indoor Rodenbeck of the College’s Art HIstory faculty and Martin Weight Loss Study; 1-800-782-2737; www.rucares.org fun with music, arts & crafts and drama. Field trips to The NY Goldray of the Music faculty. Lose Weight Under Medical Supervision Sylvan Learning, 1-800-EDUCATE Aquarium, CP Zoo, and other interesting places play an inte- For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. Health Overweight Women, Age 20 to 40 Sylvan Learning Centers are the nations leading provider of gral part in the camp program. Call 212-780-0800 Ext. 241. Join An Inpatient Study on Weight Loss. supplemental education. Individualized instruction in reading, PERFORMANCE: New Zealand String Quartet in Concert The New Country Day Camp, for children ages 5-11.5 years, Work and School allowed mathematics, writing, and study skills and test prep is offered Wednesday, November 20. is located at the Henry Kaufman Campgrounds in Staten Rockefeller University Hospital in centers conveniently located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Reisinger Concert Hall, 8 PM, $10/$8 Senior Citizens. Island. The campgrounds feature two swimming pools, boat- Advanced Degrees in Medicine, Science, and the Health Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island. Instruction is offered year- The New Zealand String Quartet is an internationally ing ponds, athletic fields, and hiking and nature trails. Call Professions at New York Medical College round. Hours are flexible. Contact us today at 1-800-EDU- acclaimed chamber music group deeply committed to music 212-780-2300, Ext.. 357. The Edgies and Torah Tots Day Valhalla, New York; (914) 594-4000; www.nymc.edu CATE or at www.educate.com. Camps are located at the Educational Alliance, 197 E. from New Zealand. The renowned chamber group has pre- Broadway. Both camps are for children ages 2-5 years and miered more than 20 works by New Zealand composers, and SCHOOLS VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS they have been featured in popular radio programs in the provide outdoor/indoor play, art activities, dramatic play, The Harlem School of the Arts, 645 St. Nicholas Ave., NYC; Learning Leaders, (212) 213-3370 music, water play, trips, picnics, and more. Torah Tots fea- U.S., Canada, and Australia. They have been praised for their (212) 926-4100 ext. 304 powerful communication, dramatic energy and unique voice. Join Learning Leaders, New York City’s largest organization tures strong emphasis on Jewish practice. Call 212-780- Learning continues after school at The Harlem School of the Program to be announced. dedicated to helping public school children. Learning Leaders 2300, Ext. 360. Arts, an afterschool conservatory where the arts educate, For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. recruits, trains and supports over 11,500 volunteers who pro- stimulate and motivate your child. Music, dance, theater, visu- vide instructional support to over 165,000 children. No expe- COLLEGES CONTINUING EDUCATION al arts and much, much more!! rience necessary. Training and curriculum provided. Call November Events at Sarah Lawrence College JASA , Jewish Association; For Services For The Aged , (212) 213-3370 to set up an interview. The International Center in New York; (212) 255-9555 EXHIBIT: “The Way We Were” 132 West 31st Street, 15th Floor, NYC ; (212) 273-5304 For more information visit www.learningleaders.org. Assists international students and immigrants improving their Esther Raushenbush Library Gallery Sundays at JASA, Continuing Education for Adults 60 and English and learning American customs/culture. Volunteer Sunday, November 3-30, Free Over at Martin Luther King High School. Call 212-273-5304 WEB PAGES conversation partners needed. Minimum commitment; maxi- “The Way We Were” will mark Lew’s thirteenth solo show of for catalog and information about courses. www.AboutOurKids.org sculpted oils during a painting career that has spanned near- mum satisfaction. Provides scientifically-based child mental health and parent- ly twenty years. The exhibit will include approximately thirty DANCE PROGRAMS ing information through a continually-expanding store of prac- pieces reflecting cherished memories of growing up in New Dance Group Arts Center, SPECIAL EDUCATION tical and accessible articles based on the latest research in America and images of American culture. Through her 254 West 47th St., NY NY 10036, (212) 719-2733; www.ndg.org The ADD Resource Center, child psychiatry, psychology, and development. It’s a reliable In New York City, (646) 205-8080 or Westchester/CT (914) 763-5648 imagery - ranging from Dick, Jane and Sally early reader Musical Theater Program for kids/young adults. Dance class- resource for both common challenges, such as toilet training, [email protected] scenes, children’s portraits and comic imagery - Lew has cap- es in all disciplines. Teaching/rehearsal space and more serious problems, such as depression. tured the innocence of the past, along with conveying opti- available.Located between Broadway and 8th Avenue. Practical help for living with attention and related disorders, mism for the future. seminars, courses, workshops and services for children, par- WOMEN’S SERVICES For more information, please call (914) 395-2470. EDITING SERVICES ents, adults, employers and educators. Call for schedule. Women’s Rights at Work, (888) 979-7765 Editing Services, WRW, sponsored by Citizen Action NY, runs a toll-free LECTURE: World Perspectives: The View from the U.S. The Smith School, (212) 879-6354 (212) 423-0965, (646) 479-5433 helpline and free monthly forums for women experiencing and Europe The Smith School, is a fully accredited Regents registered Theses, Dissertations, Manuscripts, Articles and Reports. I’ll workplace sexual harassment. Contact us at (888) 979-7765; Wednesday, November 6., 5:30 PM independent day school for special needs students (grades 7 make your work look its best and sound its best. Reasonable visit us: www.citizenactionny.org. Titsworth Lecture Hall, Free through 12) located on the Upper East Side. Our staff is expe- rates call (212) 423-0965 or (646) 479-5433 rienced in teaching students with such problems as Attention This panel discussion is the fifth part of the lecture series “The WRITING CLASSES / WORKSHOPS United States, Iraq and the World: Perspectives on the ‘War Ralph W. Larkin, Ph.D.; Disorders, Dyslexia, Phobias and emotional issues. If your Gotham Writers’ Workshop Teen Program, on Terrorism,’” focusing on the situation in the Middle East. (212) 889-3428, (800) 352-9139 child needs an academic setting, extra attention, close moni- Ages 11-14, 15-18. “World Perspectives” will feature Raymond Seidelman, Thesis problem? Help in all phases, academic research, con- toring and extremely small classes call The Smith School at (212)-WRITERS (974-8377), Monica Varsanyi and Michael Smith of the Political Science sulting services. Visit us at www.academicresearchsvc.com. 879-6354 because BETTER GRADES BEGIN HERE. www.WritingClasses.com faculty, Komozi Woodard of the History faculty and will be The Sterling School, (718) 625--3502 moderated by Lyde Sizer of the History faculty. EDUCATIONAL TOYS AND AIDS Brooklyn’s private elementary school for Dyslexic children Gotham Writers’ Workshop, offers afterschool and online writ- For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. Vanguard Crafts, offers a rigorous curriculum, Orton - Gillingham methodology ing programs for teenagers. Teen workshops include instruc- 1081 East 48th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11234. and hands-on multi-sensory learning. One-to-one remedia- tion in writing fiction, nonfiction, poetry, plays, and screen- READING: Novelist Paula Fox to Read Compare and Save on Arts & Crafts Supplies & Group Project tion is also provided. If your bright Language Learning plays. The live and online classes are taught by professional Wednesday, November 6. Packs, (718) 377-5188 Disabled child could benefit from our program please do not writers and run for 8 weeks. Private instruction is also avail- Esther Raushenbush Library, 6:30 PM, Free Our low, prices, big selection and speedy delivery help you to hesitate to contact Director: Ruth Aberman at 718-625-3502. able. Call 212-WRITERS (974-8377) or visit Paula Fox’s most recent book is Borrowed Finery, a memoir create a fabulous Arts & Crafts program without blowing your Windward School, (914) 949-8310 www.WritingClasses.com for a FREE brochure. of her childhood. Her six novels, including Desperate budget. Start SAVING NOW! Call for a free catalog: (718) Windward is a co-educational, independent day school for Essay Writing Workshop®, Characters, The Widow’s Children and Poor George have 377-5188. learning disabled students, grades 1–12, located in White Creating Superior College Application Essays recently been reissued by Norton. Fox’s work has been called Plains, NY. The school selects students of average to superi- (212) 663-5586 “original, daring and unnerving” and “elegant and wrenching.” GUEST PASSES TO HEALTH CLUBS or intelligence who can benefit from the unique educational Write college admissions essays that reflect your passion, Fox is also the author of children’s books including Newberry American Health & Fitness Alliance, approach it provides. Students stay at Windward approxi- integrity and individuality. Ivy grads, professional writers and Award winners, The Slave Dancer and The One-Eyed Cat. (212) 808-0765 mately 2–5 years and then return to mainstream settings. The former Ivy admissions staff offer private and group classes. For more information, please call (914) 395-2411. Be their guest—get the Fitness Access Passbook—swim, upper school is designed to prepare students for a success- Editing services. Call New City Workshops at 212.663.5586 exercise, have fun. For $65.00 you’ll get over 200 guest passes ful college experience. for a brochure. Award EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ NOVEMBER 2002 Winner THREE HOT SHOWS. “There Is Simply “DISNEY’S “The Nothing Else astonishments Like It!” DONE IT AGAIN! -The new york times A WINNER!” rarely cease!” –THE NEW YORKER -The New York Times

BEST MUSICAL 1998 TONY AWARD® WINNER THREE EASY WAYS TO BOOK. CALL FAX 212.703.1040 212.703.1085 or 800.439.9000 E-MAIL [email protected] www.disneyonbroadway.com/groups