instructional and educational works

"[Presents a] vision, ... framework, a clear roadmap, and ... practical tools for transforming antiquated schools into innovative learning environments ... [This book] is for all education professionals aspiring to better serve today's children"--Back cover. Jacobs and Alcock examine every aspect of K?12 education, including curriculum, instruction, assessment, and the program structures of space?both physical and virtual?time, and grouping of learners and professionals. In a new job description for teachers, Jacobs and Alcock highlight and expound on the following roles: self-navigating professional learner, social contractor, media critic and media maker, innovative designer, globally connected citizen, and advocate for learners and learning. With thought-provoking proposals and practical strategies for change, Bold Moves for Schools sets educators on the path to redefining their profession and creating exciting new learning environments.

Learning That Lasts presents a new vision for classroom instruction that sharpens and deepens the quality of lessons in all subject areas. It is the opposite of a 'teacher-proof' solution. Instead, it is predicated on a model of instruction that honors teachers as creative and expert planners of learning experiences for their students and who wish to continuously grow in their instructional and content knowledge. It is not a theoretical vision. It is a model of instruction refined in some of the nation's most successful public schools?schools that are beating the odds to create remarkable achievement?sited primarily in urban and rural low-income communities. Using case studies and examples of powerful learning at all grade levels and in all disciplines, Learning That Lasts is a guide to creating classrooms that promote deeper understanding, higher order thinking, and student independence. Through text and companion videos, readers will enter inspiring classrooms where students go beyond basics to become innovators, collaborators, and creators. Learning That Lasts embraces a three-dimensional view of student achievement that includes mastery of knowledge and skills, character, and high-quality work. It is a guide for teachers who wish to make learning more meaningful, memorable, and connected to life, and inspire students to do more than they think possible. Includes a DVD.

In Kids Deserve It!, Todd and Adam encourage you to think big and make learning fun and meaningful for students. While you're at it, you just might rediscover why you became an educator in the first place. Learn why you should be calling parents to praise your students (and employees). Discover ways to promote family interaction and improve relationships for kids at school and at home. Be inspired to take risks, shake up the status quo, and be a champion for your students. Offers strategies for making learning fun and meaningful through promotion of family interaction, taking risks, being a champion for students, and more.

"[Argues that] traditional grading procedures are no longer applicable due to vast changes in pedagogy and assessment. While K12 teachers and administrators may feel hesitant about moving away from past practices or making profound changes in grading, and while it may be challenging, a change in mindset is essential for effective instruction and assessment. A standards-based mindset is needed to reshape the traditional grading paradigm. To help readers develop standards-based mindsets about grading, Schimmer proposes a grading paradigm based on a new approach to reporting student achievement. He then presents educators with steps they can actively take to positively alter grading and reporting in their classrooms."--Provided by publisher.