EDUCATION Archives - SB Magazine

Essential Culinary Skills You Need as a Trainee

editor — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 21:11:39 +0000

Essential Culinary Skills You Need as a Trainee

CC0 Licensed Image Courtesy of Freepik

Ready to level up your kitchen game? Becoming a successful culinary trainee means mastering the fundamentals. We’re diving into the Essential Culinary Skills you absolutely need to nail—from knife cuts that impress to mastering basic sauces and managing your station like a pro.

There are a few essential culinary skills you need for the hospitality industry and working in a professional kitchen. These provide a solid experience that you can build on and increase your knowledge, from learning knife skills to understanding the fundamental basics of cooking.

Food Safety and Cleaning

One of the most fundamental parts of working in a kitchen is food safety. You’ve probably seen some of the horrors on Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares, and many of those restaurants are actually close to killing someone! From scrubbing the floors to kitchen exhaust hood cleaning, and everything in between, cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen are critical. This includes hygiene standards, but also understanding contamination and temperature control.

Knife Skills, Of Course

Knife skills aren’t just for show; they are critical for working efficiently and safely in a kitchen. It all begins with a reliable brand such as Global, but you must also look after your knife with safe storage and proper sharpening technique. A sharp knife is essential as a blunt knife is actually more dangerous as it is prone to slippage. However, the knife you choose is personal. It must be comfortable, the right size, and very sharp so you can use it for just about anything.

Essential Culinary Skills Include Time Management

Around 30% of hospitality staff leave within the first year, and this includes chefs. Working in a professional kitchen isn’t as easy as most people think, and it takes all manner of skills, not just cooking technique. The kitchen might be the heart of your home, but a professional one is a different animal. You are working with others, and that means you have responsibilities, not least managing your time for attendance, but also prioritization and working under pressure.

Basic Cooking Skills

You must learn to walk before you can run, and this is absolutely vital in the kitchen. Every great chef learns to understand the basics of cooking techniques, such as working with flour, what you can do with eggs, and understanding seasoning. In fact, Julia Child wasn’t even allowed to cook until she had perfected her onion chopping technique (after six months to a year) in a Parisian kitchen. From the basics, however, you build the confidence to move to advanced methods.

Communication and Teamwork

There are introverted chefs and extroverted chefs. It doesn’t matter which type you are, but how you communicate and work with others does. A professional kitchen is like a well-oiled machine, but problems will pop up. If you are able to work together and communicate, there’s nothing you cannot solve together. In the kitchen, this is how winning is done. Of course, communication is also critical for getting orders right and taking on constructive criticism from senior chefs.

Food safety and kitchen hygiene are critical and essential culinary skills you need to understand as a trainee. However, there are also fundamental skills you need to be aware of, like any other job, and these include personal time management, effective communication, and teamwork.

The post Essential Culinary Skills You Need as a Trainee appeared first on SB Magazine.

How Language Teachers Can Maximize Their Income

editor — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 15:24:43 +0000

Did you know that there are some 1.5 billion people currently learning English? That means that there’s plenty of potential for language teachers to boost their income. After all, there’s a pretty big market out there!

If you’re looking to maximize your income yet don’t know where to start, then this page is for you. We’ve put together a bunch of strategies that virtually anyone can utilize — put them all together, and you should find that your income is bigger than ever in no time at all.

Invest in Marketing

Most teachers get new students through word of mouth. Yet, while that can be a good way to earn new students, it’s unlikely that you’ll reach everyone who might be interested in your services. By investing in marketing, you might just get your name in front of people who otherwise wouldn’t have heard of you.

You don’t need to go overboard with marketing. Even having an SEO-friendly website and running a few PPC ads can increase the chances of your next student coming across your name and getting in touch.

Put Together Online Courses

There are plenty of people out there who want to learn English, but who have so many responsibilities that they can’t commit to regular, structured lessons. One smart way to make your services available to those people is to teach online via self-paced courses. With this, students can learn at their own pace, without having to be online. Simply put together a great course, invest in marketing, and wait for people to sign up. Once it’s online, your course will serve as a passive revenue stream, one that helps top up your income while you sleep.

Create Package Offers

In many cases, language teachers don’t actually want more income — they just want more stability. It can be difficult not knowing how much money you’ll earn next month or the month after that. One way to get around this is to create package offers, in which you sell bulk volume classes at a slightly discounted rate. While that might sound counterintuitive for boosting income, the opposite is actually true. When you know that you have steady work for the next few months, you can relax and dedicate more time to growing your list of students.

Find the Right Online Platform

Even English teachers who primarily teach in person should be teaching online. It’s an easy way to make your services available to as many people as possible.

As you might expect, there are dozens of online platforms out there. And also as you might expect, they’re not all created equal — or rather, they won’t all make sense for you. While it’s smart to be on a few different online platforms, it’s best not to spread yourself too thin. The greater the number of positive reviews you have on a platform, the easier you’ll find it to get new students, and you can’t get all the reviews you need if your students are spread out over a dozen different platforms.

Find a couple that are right for your level of teaching experience, and commit to succeeding on those platforms.

Look Abroad

Have a sense of adventure? Then packing your bags and moving to another country might be the right approach, especially if you want to boost your income. You’ll find countries that pay handsome salaries for English teachers all over the world. When looking for jobs overseas, look beyond the amount of money you’ll make. In some cases, the lower cost of living means that you’ll effectively be earning more even if the salary is lower than what you currently earn.

Living overseas offers advantages far beyond earning more cash, of course. Even if it’s for just a year or two, you’ll return home with plenty of great stories to tell — and you’ll likely know much more about yourself, too.

Consider Editing

If you’re a competent English teacher, then why not look at pivoting your skills and undertaking a new form of work, such as editing? This type of work will be easier to pick up if you’re already living abroad and have overseas clients who run businesses that need English-based marketing materials, but you can also find the work online. You’ll serve as the editor for translated works carried out by other people.

Another option is to look at becoming a translator on your own, though you’ll need to have a good grasp of a foreign language to pursue this route.

Don’t Forget Local Students

English teachers who live in their home country tend to focus exclusively on online students, but it’s worthwhile checking if there are any students in your local area who want to learn English. With the world more globalized than ever, there’s every chance that there are people nearby who need to learn — or improve — their English, especially if you live in a city that has a lot of international businesses.

There are multiple ways to reach these potential students, including infusing your website with local SEO, operating a Google My Business page, and going to businesses in person and leaving your information.

Raise Your Prices

Finally, if you’re looking to boost the amount of money you earn, then why not consider raising your prices? Many teachers are reluctant to do this because they believe it’ll make it more difficult to attract students (or even lose existing students if the price rise applies to them too), but if you’re genuinely very good at what you do, then don’t be afraid! At some point, it’s simply OK to demonstrate your worth. Plus, raising your prices will make it easier to attract high-quality students, and not only are they OK paying more, but they’re also more likely to stick with you because they’re so motivated to learn.

There’s no shortage of English teachers out there, but there’s also never been more people looking to learn English either. By taking the tips we’ve outlined above, you might just find that your income really does reach new heights.

The post How Language Teachers Can Maximize Their Income appeared first on SB Magazine.

CENTENARY COLLEGE: 200 YEARS

SB Magazine — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 23:05:42 +0000

A landmark Shreveport institution that has surely outlasted everyone reading this article is turning 200 years old this year… Centenary College of Louisiana, Louisiana’s only Tier One liberal arts college (as per U.S. News and World Reports) and the oldest liberal arts college in the country west of the Mississippi River. You might say it’s the granddaddy of all colleges in Louisiana too, since it is also the oldest college in Louisiana, period. The facility on Kings Highway is not the first building Centenary has called home; the first site of what is today Centenary College was in Jackson, Louisiana (in the southeastern part of the state) and was known as the College of Louisiana and was created by a charter from the Louisiana State Legislature in 1825. The name “Centenary” came from a Centenary College in Clinton, Mississippi (later relocated to Brandon Springs, Mississippi) that was affiliated with the Mississippi Conference of the southern division of the Methodist Episcopal Church, which established that college. In 1845, due to the state legislature halting funding for the College of Louisiana in Jackson, this Centenary College purchased the College of Louisiana, relocating to Jackson and renaming the college Centenary College of Louisiana. The college shut down during the Civil War, as noted by the board of trustees’ last minutes entry in 1861 stating “Students have all gone to War – College suspended, and God Help the Right!”

After the war, Centenary fell on hard times financially and in 1906, the Methodist Episcopal Church accepted an offer from the Shreveport Progressive League to relocate the college to Shreveport, eventually opening the college in 1908, where it remains today. Meanwhile, Centenary’s Jackson facility, which served as a hub for Union and Confederate troops during the Civil War and as a tuberculosis hospital in the 1920s, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in April 1979 and remains open for guided tours to this day, operated by the Louisiana Office of State Parks.

Two hundred years is a long time. This age makes Centenary (not to be confused with Centenary University in New Jersey) the distinction of being the 43rd oldest college in the country. When Centenary opened, James Monroe was ending his term as President of the United States…and he was the fifth president and last of the Founding Fathers to be president, only two after Thomas Jefferson (and he was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party, because the Democratic nor Republican Party we know today existed yet). Back then, the White House was not even called the White House; it was called a variation of the “President’s Palace” or “Executive Mansion” until being officially named the “White House,” 76 years later, in 1901. Tuition was $50 a year, with room, board and firewood being an additional $7; today it is about $50k a year after room and board (as a private college, Centenary gets no public funding, thus the higher tuition rates, and over 95% of Centenary students using some form of financial aid), roughly $15k a year more than LSU for comparison. Starting in 1895, women were allowed to enroll as a desperate effort to boost enrollment, which was 25 years before they were given the right to vote in this country. There were only 24 states in the country. Perhaps most shocking though, is that Shreveport was not even a city yet in 1825; that wouldn’t happen for another 46 years.

It is no small feat to last this long, and Centenary will be taking the whole Bicentennial year to celebrate the accomplishment. To kickstart the festivities, a small birthday celebration in their Marjorie Lyons Playhouse was held for the students, attended by the likes of Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Centenary’s oldest known living alumna at 101, Emilie Anne Ostendorff (Class of 1944). For 2025, Centenary annual events including Founder’s Day, the Centenary Research Conference in April, Commencement, and Homecoming “will all feature special bicentennial speakers – from students to alumni, from local to national leaders, themes, and events,” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Karen Soul explains. “Many of these events are free and open to the public and we are excited to celebrate with the campus and community.” A particularly notable exhibit for the public to know about that will be ongoing from January 13th through May 2nd, then September 2nd through December 6th, is the “Centenary’s Legacy” exhibit at the Meadows Museum of Art on campus showcasing Centenary’s history by pulling things from their historical archives. This is a walk-through, interactive exhibit, free and open to the public. Other events include a “Gents Soccer Alumni Game” on February 22, in which past “Gents” soccer players will play again. In March, there will be a “Tour de 1825” Alumni Trip down to Centenary’s old Jackson campus and St. Francisville (a tiny but historic town nearby). Centenary’s resurgent football team, returning after a 70-plus-year hiatus and now in only its second year of existence, will use their homecoming week in October to highlight the Bicentennial with Centenary’s storied choir having a Reunion Rhapsody that week. Lastly, a black-tie gala on December 6th in the Gold Dome will conclude the Bicentennial celebrations. “We have one sort of signature event every month, and then a lot of smaller events,” explains Centenary’s President Dr. Christopher Holoman.

“Sometimes people say Centenary is a hidden gem, and we try not to be hidden. This is a good opportunity to get a little less hidden. Raising the profile of the college is going to be really cool,” he adds. Centenary has also been doing small things like wrapping city buses and billboards with the Bicentennial campaign to raise awareness. For a complete list of Bicentennial-themed events, you can visit www.centenary200.com. Surely the brightest and most significant change going into Centenary’s third century though, launched in a bid to boost enrollment and public awareness of the college, football at Centenary is back, after being an on-again off-again affair. In 1898, the Board of Trustees had resolved to not only not play football, but any athletics, after LSU quite literally crushed a makeshift Centenary team from the old campus in Baton Rouge, defeating them by a large margin and hospitalizing two players. But slowly, athletics found its way into the new Shreveport campus. Finally, in 1922, Centenary was back in the football business. These were considered the “Glory Years,” from 1922-1942, and included undefeated seasons in 1927 and 1932. Centenary accomplished miraculous feats for a college of its size, like beating Texas A&M, Ole Miss, and in a true David-and- Goliath story and humorous comeuppance, even the venerable LSU that had once crushed their entire athletic department, in 1932 (by a score of 6-0, and the “Gents” would also tie LSU 0-0 in Baton Rouge the following year). An Associated Press writer wrote of that 1932 undefeated team that the team had earned the title “Wonder Team of the South… it’s a little team that never gives up.” These years were short-lived, however; the war ended the program temporarily, and it never got back on its feet. Prior to 2023, the very last game Centenary played was a bruising 51-14 loss to Louisiana Tech during their 1947 season. Now, Centenary has hired former Evangel and LSU standout Byron Dawson (who played under Nick Saban) to be its head coach, and they are competing at the NCAA Division III level. Prior to dropping to the Division III level in 2009 from Division I, Centenary had the proud distinction of being the smallest Division I school in the country.

Athletes’ tuitions are not paid for by athletic scholarships in Division III schools, so any Centenary athlete you see participating in their sport is playing sheerly for love of the game. It should be noted Centenary does have a couple illustrious members in its athletic history: professional golfer Hal Sutton was the 1980 College Player of the Year while he was at Centenary, the 1983 Player of the Year on the PGA Tour, and a winner of 14 PGA Tour events. Then there is Cal Hubbard, who played football at Centenary in those “Glory Days” (and is enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame for it), followed by 10 years in the NFL and an extensive career as an umpire in the MLB. He remains the only person to ever be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Baseball Hall of Fame.

So, what about the next 200 years? Coining the plan “Bold at the Bicentennial,” and currently in their second year of implementation according to Dr. Soul, Centenary has a fourpronged approach moving forward. The four themes are: 1) Provide a Transformative Student Experience, 2) Grow Enrollment, 3) Be Shreveport-Bossier’s College, and 4) Be a Great Place to Work. Fundraising is ongoing for the vision, which currently has a goal of $50 million, with around $40 million already raised or pledged. The development projects include improving Mickle Hall (the sciences building), the football program and updates to the Hurley School of Music. Centenary will be looking to further capitalize and improve upon their well-known strengths, such as their pre-med program that has an acceptance rate of 94% and the ever-popular Centenary in Paris study abroad program, where students spend about a week in Paris. “We’re trying to expand opportunities for people that are not just interested in going to medical school but may be interested in other kinds of medical fields. We have articulation agreements with both Baylor and Northwestern to their nursing programs.

We’ll have something similar when LSUS starts their nursing program, it will take them a couple years to get it up and running. Pre-law… social sciences, is good for us. We have a wonderful business school at both the graduate and undergraduate level. Psychology is always a good major for us, as well as the theater and the music programs” says President Holoman. Centenary is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), but athletically competes in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) and is the only NCAA Division III school in Louisiana.

As you can see, there is more history than meets the eye when you pass the unassuming place on Kings Highway. With a total enrollment of 700-something students as of the fall of 2024, it is a small college, but it always has been a small college and has endured this long. Only time will tell if it makes it another 200 years, but for now, it is a Shreveport landmark, and it believes in the city as much as it hopes the city believes in it.

Photos Courtesy of Centenary College of Louisiana

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C.E. BYRD HIGH SCHOOL 100 YEARS

SB Magazine — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 22:06:48 +0000

C. E. Byrd High School, nestled in the heart of Shreveport, Louisiana, is a testament to the enduring commitment to education, community, and excellence that characterizes this vibrant city. Established in 1925, this institution has evolved from its modest beginnings into a distinguished center for learning that not only imparts academic knowledge but also fosters personal growth and community development. As a hub of education, C. E. Byrd High School has played an integral role in shaping the lives of countless students, many of whom have made significant contributions to society.

The school was named after Charles Edwin Byrd, a notable figure in Louisiana’s educational landscape who served as the city’s superintendent of schools. The establishment of C. E. Byrd High School was driven by the necessity to provide quality education to the growing population of Shreveport, which was experiencing a significant demographic shift during the post-World War I era. Over the decades, the school has celebrated numerous milestones that reflect its commitment to educational excellence and community engagement. Today, Byrd High School’s website welcomes visitors to “The City of Byrd,” which is affectionately referred to as “The City.”

C. E. Byrd High School boasts a notable roster of alumni who have left indelible marks in various fields, including politics, arts, and sciences. Among its distinguished graduates are Academy Award Winner William Joyce, former Secretary of the Navy John Howard Dalton, and Pulitzer Prize winner Helen Lefkowitz Horowitz, who have advanced their respective careers. Byrd has produced Mayors, Senators, Judges, U.S. Attorneys, and state representatives. Outstanding professional athletes have walked the halls of the Byrd campus. Liffort Hobley of the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Dolphins, Isaac Hagins of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Arnaz Battle of the 49ers and the Steelers just to name a few.

Byrd High School Generations Family

Back row (left to right) Charlotte Walker Sonnenfield (96) Preston Sonnenfield (current freshman) Front row (left to right) Taylor Prothro Harper (09), Marilyn Smith Prothro (’80), Torie Prothro Chrichton (’07), Nancy Smith Walker (’68)

C. E. Byrd High School’s academic programs and curriculum are distinguished by their breadth and depth, catering to a diverse student body with varying interests and aspirations. The school offers 18 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 14 dual enrollment classes, allowing students to engage with college-level material and earn credits to ease their transition into higher education. In addition to AP courses, C. E. Byrd provides vocational programs that equip students with practical skills necessary for the workforce. Innovative teaching methods, such as project-based learning and collaborative group work, are employed by dedicated educators committed to fostering critical thinking and creativity among their students. In addition to the core curriculum, Byrd offers more than 50 electives. The success rates of C. E. Byrd students are demonstrable, with many graduates achieving commendable scores on standardized tests and gaining acceptance into prestigious colleges and universities. The school’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its numerous accolades and recognitions over the years, solidifying its reputation as a premier educational institution in the region.

Extracurricular activities at C. E. Byrd High School complement the academic curriculum, fostering a well-rounded educational experience that encourages student engagement beyond the classroom. The school offers 80 clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests—from the debate team, which hones critical thinking and public speaking skills, to the drama club, where students explore their creative talents through performance. Additionally, the school’s music and art programs allow students to express themselves artistically, cultivating a vibrant cultural atmosphere on campus.

There is great pride in the purple and gold. With over 18 offerings that include football, basketball, soccer, and track, the athletic programs for boys and girls foster a sense of camaraderie among students as they rally together to support their teams. These sporting events create cherished traditions and build community pride as parents and residents gather to cheer on the students.

Beyond academics and athletics, C. E. Byrd students are also deeply involved in community service initiatives. Students participate in various volunteer projects that benefit local organizations and instill a sense of civic responsibility and empathy. This year, to mark the 100th day of school, students were given the opportunity to participate in community service for the entire day. Over 300 students signed on to participate as a volunteer. Whether organizing food drives, participating in environmental clean-up efforts, or mentoring younger students, these initiatives help students develop leadership skills while contributing positively to the community.

Several members of the faculty at Byrd have taught the parents of their current students. It’s this longevity plus the contributions of faculty and staff at C. E. Byrd High School that attribute to the institution’s success and reputation as a nurturing educational environment. The teaching staff comprises highly qualified professionals, many of whom hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, bringing knowledge and expertise to the classroom. This dedication to excellence is further demonstrated through the school’s ongoing professional development opportunities for its educators. Workshops, seminars, and collaborative learning sessions are regularly organized to ensure teachers remain abreast of the latest pedagogical trends and educational technologies. This commitment to professional growth not only empowers teachers but also enhances the overall learning experience for students. To mark its Centennial, the C.E. Byrd Alumni Association has worked diligently for well over two years organizing a year-long celebration. Centennial Chair and past Alumni President, Torie Prothro Crichton is quick to point out all the hard work that the Centennial Committee members have put into making these events special and memorable for everyone who plans to attend. He and co-chair for the Centennial – Shelvia Grant Davis have been meeting with Byrd High School Principal, Gerald Badgley monthly to put the finishing touches on the celebration.

The Centennial Celebration will culminate with a weekend of activities beginning Thursday, June 5th. The C.E. Byrd High School Hall of Fame Induction dinner will take place at the Shreveport Convention Center. Those honored include Joseph Zaffater ’29, John Parsons ’59, Max Watson ’63, Neil Johnson ’72, David Matlock ’73, Michael Leonard ‘73, Leslie Morgan ’74, Darrell Jones ’75, Pamela McPherson ’78, Faith Jenkins ’94, Meredith Duncan ’98, Jacob Davis ’04, Annia Jenkins ’04, Amy Brittain ’05, Jordan Davis ’06, and Charles Johnson ’08. Faculty members inducted this centennial year ae Kathy O’Neal and William “Roy” Keene.

The Letterman’s Association has planned a gold tournament at Querbes Golf Course on Friday, June 6th. This inaugural event will kick off with a shotgun start at 8:00 am followed by lunch, beverages, and an award ceremony at the Querbes clubhouse.

That same evening, the Robinson Film Center opens its doors to alumni for the screening of “Glimpses of Byrd.” This documentary by Brent Latin, a Byrd alumnus, of Young Professionals Entertainment, will tell the story of Byrd and will feature many of its remarkable and accomplished graduates.

The party continues as six separate establishments along Texas Street in downtown Shreveport play host to a Decades Reunion. Each Decade of Byrd graduates will take over one of the six for a chance to mingle and re-connect with old friends. The 50s decade will meet at the Robinson Film Center, 60s decade will meet at 421 Texas Street, 70s at the Missing Link, the 80s at Rhino Coffee, the 90s at The Noble Savage and the 2000s at Fatty Arbuckles Pub.

Early the next morning, June 7th, the Byrd neighborhood will be covered by runners and walkers alike for a 5K Walk/Run. Byrd High School will also host an open house on the campus where anyone and everyone is welcome. There will be assemblies and pep rallies just like the good old days as guests enjoy refreshment from food trucks. Historic memorabilia will also be displayed throughout the school for all to view.

The Ultimate Reunion is the evening of June 7th at the Shreveport Convention Center and promises to be an evening of unparallel entertainment. Committee Chairs, Waynette Ballengee and Kristin Parsons have promised a night to remember with a live band followed by a D.J, food for thousands, a cash bar – everything you would expect of a 100-year celebration that can be squeezed in between 7 PM and Midnight. The parking will be free of charge at the Convention Center and valet will also be available.

What is so incredible about this Weekend Celebration is that many of the committee members and volunteers weren’t graduates of Byrd. Those that weren’t alumni have, over the years, been connected in some way. Either a child, a grandchild, niece or nephew have been students at Byrd, and they’ve fallen in love with the values and principles that Byrd High School has cultivated over the years. With that in mind, the organizers of this yearlong celebration hope that everyone, Byrd Alumni or not, will feel welcome to participate in the events. Everyone in Shreveport is invited to be a part of this once in a lifetime experience.

There are plenty of ways to get involved. Volunteers are needed and support with event planning, decorations, setup, take down – every little bit will help to make the centennial a success. Sponsorships are available and a great way to show your support as well as promoting your business. For more information on sponsorship opportunities and tickets to the various events, visit the alumni website: www.byrdhighalumni.org or scan the QR code provided.

C. E. Byrd High School is a beacon of learning and community in Shreveport, Louisiana, with its rich historical background and diverse academic programs. The school’s foundation, rooted in a commitment to educational excellence, has been instrumental in shaping the lives of its students, many of whom have made significant contributions to society. The outstanding qualifications of faculty and staff, coupled with a commitment to professional development and mentorship, ensure that students receive a holistic and supportive educational experience. The school’s achievements and recognition highlight its impact on student success and the broader Shreveport community. For 100 years, The City of Byrd has fostered an environment where students thrive academically and personally, preparing them to become responsible and informed citizens in an increasingly diverse world. As such, C. E. Byrd High School remains a vital institution, embodying the values of education, community, and excellence that will undoubtedly resonate for future generations. “The City” will literally be taking over the city for this one spectacular weekend. 100 years of C.E. Byrd. The tradition continues. Come be a part of it!

The post C.E. BYRD HIGH SCHOOL 100 YEARS appeared first on SB Magazine.

STUDENT SECTION: Caddo Parish Students of the Year

SB Magazine — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 18:31:20 +0000

School is hard when students start out – whether entering Kindergarten, sixth grade, ninth grade, or graduating and looking towards their futures. Students have to sit at desks, pay attention, cooperate, be nice, and, oh yes – Learn Things. It’s no wonder the state-wide test scores are a concern to school and district administrators.

But sometimes, students manage all these tasks, plus many more, and make it seem and look easy. They achieve academically, are involved in extracurricular activities, have no discipline issues, and are well-regarded by their teachers. SB Magazine is proud to highlight three of these students, Caddo Parish’s Students of the Year for 2023 – 2024.

THEY ARE 5TH GRADER BHAVIK KONDALA, 8TH GRADER LUKA MIKABERIDZE, AND 12TH GRADER ANALYCE JEANE.

Bhavik is an 11-year-old student at Eden Gardens Magnet Elementary

who is in the Gifted and Talented Arts programs at school and has had straight A’s his entire life. He plays tennis and soccer, loves art, and is a serious rock collector. Introduced to rocks by his 4th-grade teacher, he has attended the area’s Gem and Mineral Show and has purchased several semi-precious stones, such as rose quartz and amethyst geodes. Bhavik is a chicken wing lover, a reader of fantasy books, a video game player, and a local Orff instrument group member. He is a member of his school’s cross-country team and Lighthouse Club, a leadership organization.

College plans for Bhavik include going to Duke University; he says that the school excels in academics and sports. He wants to be an anesthesiologist like his mom. She has shared several child-based books on the subject, which Bhavik has read and finds very interesting. He is good at soccer and tennis, is a Boy Scout, and loves giving back to his community and respecting nature. His favorite subject is Social Studies; he has had a passion for history and geography since he was young. Math is a close second to Social Studies; he believes that math teaches one “real-world skills.” He doesn’t have a least favorite – he likes all of his school subjects.

To Bhavik, the hardest thing about 5th grade is how organized one has to be: staying prepared and mentally strong. He said that 5th grade “preps you for middle and high school; you can’t have bad habits.” The best thing about 5th grade is the graduation and finale, which includes a field trip and party. He would like to advise younger students to “keep doing what you are doing to be successful. Be organized and prepared; even if you hit a brick wall, you can still achieve if you don’t give up.”

Eighth-grader Luka is a student & at Caddo Middle Magnet

Who is also in the Gifted program at school. While he currently has straight A’s, he admits that he might have gotten three B’s while in the 3rd grade. His favorite subjects are Science and Math; he wants to be an astronomer or astrophysicist. He says that “all our problems can be solved by space. I want to make a major contribution.” He sees himselfas an adult “in a room doing math and science, and figuring out the mysteries of the world and helping the world.” He likes all his other subjects equally. For fun, Luka says, “all academics are fun.” He likes working with Legos, is on the Quiz Bowl for the area, and loves to fence. He is a Boy Scout and will soon be an Eagle Scout. His fellow Scouts have been his best friends since elementary school; he loves hiking and connecting with the outside world.

Luka enjoys reading the classics “Mysterious Island,” “Kim,” and “Animal Farm,” and works by Alexandre Dumas, J. D. Salinger, and Jules Verne. In the classics, they had a different way of thinking.” He plays the French Horn, listens to classical music, and is in the Honor Band. “Music is another way to let emotions out.” The “Star Wars” franchise is his absolute favorite, plus he collects Star Wars Lego action figures.

The hardest thing about 8th grade, Luka feels, is the responsibility. “I suddenly have a lot more responsibility in this grade: becoming more independent, transitioning to High School, and moving toward complete independence.” The easiest thing for him is his friend relationships. “I’ve known them so long we can tell each other anything.” He says that he is good at board games and has even invented one of his own. He said that every night is game night or movie night at his house. He advises younger students: “Don’t just follow dreams but push toward them. If you want to become the best in your field, don’t slack off. Believe in yourself and persevere 150%. Pour your passion into your soul – that’s how you achieve things in life.”

Analyce is a 17-year-old Senior in high school

who not only has career goals firmly in place, but she also has created several local and school-based organizations and fundraisers to benefit her community. After her mother’s successful battle against cancer, Analyce founded a fundraising campaign called “Cupcakes for a Cure,” designed to raise money for access to mammography for women. In October, she baked, decorated, and sold cupcakes to help fund mammogram equipment; from 2020 to 2023, over $5000 was raised for the North Caddo Medical Center for their Mammography Center. Analyce founded the P-7 club in her sophomore year, a faith-based group designed to give students access to Bible devotionals and outreach. She is also on the Student Council, Interact Club, Beta Club, Environmental Club, Yearbook staff, Million Word Club, North Caddo Scholars, Educators Rising, and National Honor Society. She is academically in the Gifted and Talented Arts programs for Music and Drama. Analyce has been involved in Mission projects including Reach Out America, to benefit victims of the Maui fire.

Analyce is looking forward to a career in education; she plans to attend Louisiana State University in Shreveport for her undergraduate and master’s degrees. Her goal is to be an elementary school teacher at North Caddo Elementary/Middle School. A native of Vivian, she loves her community and would love the opportunity to continue serving it as an adult and making a difference in the area. She is an avid reader, loves crawfish and old musicals, and has a passion for music. She has been playing piano since she was six years old, has served as a worship leader and pianist for her church, loves to sing, and enjoys traveling on family vacations. Her favorite subject is English; she loves writing and communicating with others through writing. If she were made to choose a least favorite subject, she would pick “maybe Science?”

The best thing about being a Senior, to Analyce, is being able to be an example for her lower classmates. She is always working on growing her skills. She is not looking forward to leaving the connections she’s made in high school, nor the organizations she’s helped create and been a part of. She has a twin brother who is neck-and-neck in the race with her towards Valedictorian; she calls him her best friend. Her advice to a past self is this: “Trials will be footsteps toward your future success and involvement.” Analyce is centered, optimistic, happy, and looking forward to what the future has in store for her.

The process to become Student of the Year is rigorous. After being nominated by a teacher and selected at the school level, the students must submit essays and educational achievements, undergo interviews, and show themselves as leaders in their grades. Once selected at the district level, the students compete at the state level in hopes of becoming the state-wide Students of the Year. Our best wishes are for these students to achieve this goal in their life-long journeys toward greatness.

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STUDENT SECTION: Luke Armstrong

SB Magazine — Wed, 29 May 2024 19:10:00 +0000

By Elaine Pool

For an 8th grader, organization is key. Keeping up with all the schoolwork, sports, assigned books, and simply having fun all require a certain amount of organization. SB Magazine’s private Student of the Month has a fickle relationship with organization; while Luke Armstrong knows just how important that skill is, he sometimes tends to go to the extreme. He is a self-described perfectionist; he is very particular, needs a clean room to function, and might lean toward obsessiveness sometimes. Yet he admits that this perfectionism helps him keep his life organized. He says that he couldn’t juggle his academics and playing sports without staying organized and using good time management. Luke loves sports but said that his academic career would be much easier without the time spent on sports activities.

Regarding subjects at Calvary Baptist Academy, Luke said that he loves math; it has always come naturally to him, and he enjoys numbers. His least favorite subject is English; while he likes to read, he has a “love/hate relationship with reading.” He does enjoy writing from time to time but acknowledges that it is a lot of work. His favorite books to read include sports books, the Bible, and the Chronicles of Narnia, but sometimes he has to force himself to read. He has no problem finding things he likes to do, however. He plays baseball, basketball, football, piano, and guitar. He will look up music on YouTube for inspiration or technique assistance.

Travius is a basketball-loving student; he enjoys playing basketball video games, as well as playing live basketball. His position is small forward, which puts him in the company of basketball greats Julius Erving, LeBron James, and Larry Bird. His plan is to continue playing basketball in high school and beyond; his immediate goal is attending Huntington High School and making their team. Travius is looking forward to high school and plans to play basketball for the NBA eventually.

A quiet, shy student, Travius is the older brother of several sisters, 2 of whom live in the home with him, and one brother, who lives with their father. Travius’ favorite food is spaghetti, and he likes to work math problems; he says that Math and Social Studies are his favorite subjects in school. He gave a “shout-out” to his ELA teacher, Ms. Pruitt, and his Math teacher, Ms. Murray. While he is thinking of using his math skills for banking or other financial activities, his one true love remains basketball. Travius comes alive when asked about basketball.

Luke’s music choices are eclectic; he likes to listen to and play worship music, mellow country music, and pop music. His movie and TV choices include Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Percy Jackson, the Marvel Universe, and “Stranger Things.” Luke’s favorite thing about 8th grade is the freedom this grade gets. There is a lot of freedom, such as being able to access the vending machines after lunch for his favorites, Dr. Pepper and Sour Patch candies. Luke loves Subway restaurants, particularly their chocolate chip cookies. He is also a fan of hibachi grilled food. Juggling all his sports and academics is the hardest thing about being in 8th grade.

Luke began his academic career at Fairfield Magnet Elementary and moved to Providence Classical Academy for 6th and 7th grades. This is his first year at Calvary, and he really enjoys it. He says that there are more opportunities, such as sports, and more people at the school.

When asked about his career goals, Luke said his first choice would be to go professional in a sport. If not sports, he plans to become a “doctor of some kind.” He listed his strengths as being smart, athletic, and loving Jesus. He is still undecided about where he will attend high school but is leaning toward Calvary to finish his pre-college education. Luke had some specific advice to give his younger self if he could. “Stay focused on Jesus and the things you can control about yourself.” He quoted a favorite saying of his dad’s as his best advice: “Control the controllable,” which he uses throughout his life, at school, home, and church.

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CENTER FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION AT LSU

SB Magazine — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 19:12:30 +0000

The establishment of LSU Health Shreveport’s Center for Medical Education can be traced back to its inception as a bold investment in sustainable economic growth, the delivery of modern education, and improving the overall health of North Louisiana. This new $79 million facility will be instrumental in accelerating the educational growth necessary to address the healthcare workforce shortage.

At the recent unveiling, Governor Edwards took the stage to elaborate on the importance of this milestone. “An investment in Louisiana’s healthcare and scientific workforce is a win for our entire state, which is why the opening of the Center of Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport is such an important achievement,” said Gov. Edwards. “This state-of-the-art facility gives Shreveport every advantage to equitably compete for top-tier students from both near and far. Given LSU Health Shreveport’s long and impressive record of retaining graduates in Louisiana and providing care for underserved and rural areas, I am confident that this center will prove beneficial in the immediate future and for decades to come.”

With 70,000 square feet dedicated to educational spaces and almost 17,000 square feet of state-of-the-art wellness offerings, the facility will serve as a symbol of LSU Health Shreveport’s commitment to excellence in medical education to include the mental and physical wellness of students. The center is equally focused on biomedical research aimed at improving health outcomes through an expanded research infrastructure focused on training, treating, and combatting current and future viral diseases.

The Center for Medical Education features state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories designed to facilitate a modern, team-based approach to medical education. It is the first new building on the LSUHS campus in over 15 years. The Center for Medical Education is strategically located adjacent to the three professional schools, making it a hub for training the next generation of healthcare professionals. In addition to classrooms and laboratories, the Center for Medical Education houses simulation and skills training labs to provide students with comprehensive, hands-on training experiences.

The Technical Skills Lab features computer-based and virtual reality simulators, including a Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) training facility. The Simulation Lab consists of seven full-service simulation rooms, including a simulation hospital ward, emergency response/cardiology, adult, pediatric, and neonatal units. The Clinical Skills Center offers extensive training through standardized patients, who realistically portray various patient scenarios, enabling students to practice their diagnostic and communication skills and preparing them to become confident and competent practitioners.

The Center for Medical Education is also home to a fitness center and wellness space, encompassing over 25,000 square feet, where students and staff can maintain their physical and mental health. This includes meditation rooms, cardio and fitness studios, and a multipurpose gymnasium. Additionally, the campus features a teaching kitchen, which serves as an educational space for healthy cooking techniques and overall nutritional wellness.

Senator Bill Cassidy spearheaded the effort that led to a $7 million Health Resources and Services Administration grant that contributed to the construction of the Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) research facility. The 11,780-square-foot CEVT will act as a training ground for students, physicians, and scientists and will consist of a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory and a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory with an additional lab space enabling both advanced research on viral pathogens and molecular testing for different viruses serving public health needs. The BSL-3 Lab will be the first of this magnitude on the LSU Health Shreveport campus and in North Louisiana, enabling the institution’s world-class researchers to study important emerging human pathogens further and fortify the university’s position to address future pandemics quickly.

The development of the Center for Medical Education exemplifies a commitment to collaboration as funding was provided by federal, state, and local governments combined with private sector support. More than 400 donors, including gifts from Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner Health totaling $15.5 million, as well as $1 million each from both the City of Shreveport and Caddo Parish Commission, contributed to the completion of this project. “When public and private funders join forces, incredible achievements can occur. This transformational building is a testament to the commitment of our federal, state, and local elected leaders and community supporters to LSU Health Shreveport’s future. It is with great pride that we could come together with our closest supporters to celebrate this achievement. We are thankful for every dollar given to this project because every dollar mattered,” stated Kevin Flood, President, and CEO of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation in Shreveport.

The innovative research and development conducted at LSU Health Shreveport have led to numerous breakthroughs and contributions to the medical field. These advancements not only improve the well-being of the region but also have a lasting impact on the broader medical community. As a part of LSU Health Shreveport’s primary mission to teach, heal, and discover, the Center for Medical Education is dedicated to providing a robust training environment for students and fellows. By fostering a culture of learning and innovation, the Center for Medical Education is shaping the future of healthcare and science.

Fifty years ago, LSU Medical School graduated its first class of medical students. It is fitting that this beautiful structure, the Center for Medical Education, will become a symbol of Louisiana’s commitment to supporting the advancement of medical education in North Louisiana as well as maintaining top-tier physicians in our region and state. Since the inception of School of Medicine, primary care and family medicine has been a focus of the institution. After fifty years approximately 50% of graduates match into primary care residencies. The LSUHS School of Medicine also boasts being in the top 23% for students remaining in the state to practice medicine.

Another essential aspect of the high-quality education provided at LSU Health Shreveport is its highly experienced and knowledgeable professionals. With more than 500 clinical and research faculty members, LSU Health Shreveport boasts a diverse and dedicated team of educators who play a key role in the institution’s mission of healing, teaching, and discovery. Many of these faculty members are nationally and internationally renowned clinicians and researchers, often recruited from major institutions across the country. This strong emphasis on recruiting top-tier educators ensures that students at LSU Health Shreveport receive an unparalleled education grounded in the latest advancements in medical research and practice.

The student experience is also prioritized at LSU Health Shreveport. Extracurricular activities and organizations promoting leadership, academic training, and service play an essential role in shaping student life. With a variety of organizations and interest groups on campus, students are offered a wide range of engagement opportunities. For example, academic societies provide mentoring and coaching to medical students throughout their four years of study, and medical specialty interest groups provide opportunities for students to learn more about the fields they are interested in pursuing. By participating in these activities, students can develop valuable skills, receive guidance for their future careers as physicians, and forge connections with peers and faculty.

Another asset to the student experience is the number of LSU Health Shreveport alumni who remain in the community. Networking and mentorship are advantageous components of clinical rotations and matching with residency programs. With over 5,000 residents and fellows having trained at the institution, many remaining in Northwest Louisiana, there is a vast network of professionals who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for educational development. Furthermore, a foundation in research activities not only supports career growth but also positions students for success in their chosen medical specialties. By engaging with mentors and participating in research or other training opportunities, students can develop the necessary connections and skills to excel in their future endeavors within the healthcare industry.

Students at LSU Health Shreveport are often involved in the community through service involving health education or patient support initiatives. These opportunities aim to provide the community with supportive resources such as health screenings, educational flyers, support groups, etc. Students and student groups participate in local health fairs and other community markets and provide resources and support for those who are present. Additionally, students at LSU Health Shreveport hold annual events for groups in need of support in our community, such as a weekly walking group and annual fundraiser for local cancer patients and survivors and an annual week-long summer camp for children with disabilities.

In addition to education and student experiences, LSU Health Shreveport offers a range of programs and workshops designed to support the ongoing professional development of practicing physicians. Through regularly scheduled seminars, grand rounds, etc. the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program facilitates lifelong learning for physicians, helping them stay current with advances in medical knowledge and best practices. These educational events often feature expert speakers from various medical specialties who share their knowledge and expertise through lectures and hands-on training. By participating in these programs, physicians can enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge, which are essential skills for delivering high-quality patient care.

Over the years, LSU Health Shreveport has contributed a positive economic impact to North Louisiana. As northwest Louisiana’s sixth largest employer, the institution contributes over $595 million to the region each year in addition to the $2.4 billion contributed by LSU Health Shreveport alumni practicing in North Louisiana. The Center for Medical Education will allow LSU Health Shreveport to grow and continue to attract high-quality students and faculty. The past fifty years of education have proved to be positive for the region, state, and beyond, and the next fifty years are expected to do the same. The Center for Medical Education was essential in continuing the proud legacy of innovation and excellence at LSU Health Shreveport.

The Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport offers a range of programs and workshops designed to support the ongoing professional development of practicing physicians. Through monthly conferences and regularly scheduled series, such as grand rounds, the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program facilitates lifelong learning for physicians, helping them stay current with advances in medical knowledge and best practices. These educational events often feature expert speakers from various medical specialties who share their knowledge and expertise through lectures and hands-on training. By participating in these programs, physicians can enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge, which are essential skills for delivering high-quality patient care. A new $2.5 million gift from W. Clinton “Bubba” Rasberry, Jr. was announced at the unveiling. The gift will establish the Rasberry Family Endowed Lecture Series, which will be hosted in the building auditorium. In recognition of this gift, it was announced that the auditorium will be named the W. Clinton Rasberry Jr. Auditorium.

In addition to workshops and conferences, the Center for Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport provides certification and recertification courses for physicians seeking to maintain or expand their clinical competencies. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including cardiopulmonary science, medical laboratory science, physician assistant, Communication disorders, Occupational therapy, And physical therapy. Furthermore, all Louisiana licensed physicians who prescribe controlled dangerous substances must complete a 3-hour CME course to meet the state’s requirements. The Center for Medical Education ensures that these courses are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), ensuring that participants receive high-quality, evidence-based instruction.

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Education: FULL STREAM AHEAD

SB Magazine — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 00:03:08 +0000

FULL STREAM AHEAD!

By Seva May

One of the topics we are focusing on in this issue of SB is the selection we are fortunate to have in private school education. There are over a dozen schools, not counting preschools, in Shreveport-Bossier. I looked at their websites and found that most have a common denominator. STREAM. Most of you will know what this acronym stands for. I was only vaguely familiar with STREAM because I’m old, and my children are grown. If the acronym was being used when they were in school, I wasn’t aware of it. This is for grandparents and parents who might like to know more about this curriculum being taught to our children today.

I learned from Julie Andrews that the best place to start is at the very beginning. A warning before you begin reading: you are going to be inundated with acronyms throughout this abbreviated history. Let’s begin with the early STEM years, which trace back to the Morrill Act of 1862. STEM combines the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics curriculum. The Morrill Act created land grant universities to support agricultural science. Over the course of time, STEM training expanded to the workforce.

By the 1950s, we witnessed great technological advances as we entered the Cold War, the space race with Russia, and President Eisenhower’s inauguration of NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration). This marked a heightened interest in science education. As we entered the 21st century, it was glaringly clear that U.S. students’ achievements were lagging behind other industrialized countries. In 2001, the National Science Foundation (NSF) decided to address the situation by creating the first form of the acronym for science, math, engineering, and technology, SMET, which was wisely reordered to spell STEM.

This was a good beginning as state after state began acquiring public and private grants that supported STEM education. That same year, the NCLB Act (No Child Left Behind – don’t you love all these acronyms?) passed. With this act, state-level standardized testing was implemented to ensure high academic standards. Still, our kids were falling behind other countries. In 2009, Obama established the Educate to Innovate Initiative (no acronym) with the goal of moving to the top of the pack in science and math achievement. Federal funding was approved for STEM education and for the training of STEM teachers. The STEM Education Act of 2015 added computer science to the curriculum, which resulted in more teacher training. Congress also passed ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act), replacing NCLB. It also modified the use of standardized tests while expanding the federal government’s role in public education.

High-performing nations have well-developed curricula concentrating on 21st-century skills, including inquiry processes, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. The National Education Association breaks these skills into four primary areas necessary for success in the 21st century: critical thinking and problem-solving, communication, collaboration, creativity, and innovation. Therefore, there is a need to focus on core content knowledge and interdisciplinary processes to advance STEM education.

STREAM is a variant of STEM, which includes the Arts and Reading. It stands for Science, Technology, Reading and wRiting, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics [3]. It is worth noting that there is some overlap between STEAM and STREAM. However, there is no consensus on what the exact acronym should be, as different schools and institutions adopt different variations depending on their specific educational goals and priorities. For example, many faith-based schools have used the “R” to represent religion and integrate religious themes into the curriculum. Regardless of which acronym is used, the goal remains the same – to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for various careers in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.

So, now you have the evolution of this teaching method. The question remains: is it being utilized in our public and private school systems? Have the teachers who are employing “relevant integration of STEM concepts” been fully trained to do so?

To the older generation of educators, STEAM is often poorly defined, with varying levels of implementation. It can be difficult to implement, with teachers reporting challenges with, among other things, collaboration across disciplines, increased workload, and understanding STEAM integration. In 2016, Caddo Parish Public Schools partnered with Discovery Education, the leading provider of digital content and professional development for K-12 classrooms, to launch Caddo Parish Schools and Discovery Education launched Re-Imagine Caddo: The Plan for Excellence. The goal of the iLearn initiative was to build a strong culture of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) districtwide.

Several of our Private Schools offer STREAM, most beginning in pre-kindergarten. St. John Berchmans Catholic School has a curriculum “rooted in STREAM that exposes students to many skills that are highly valuable.” St. Joseph Catholic School integrates technology into each classroom by utilizing state-of-the-art interactive whiteboards and a 1:1 iPad plan. Integrated STREAM and Technology classes have fully equipped labs, which allow students to experience education with 3D virtual tours, robotics, digital citizenship, online safety, and keyboarding. Students at Southfield School begin visiting the STEAM science lab as early as kindergarten.

Beginning in the 2016-2017 school year, schools integrated Discovery Education’s Science Techbook (Grades K-12), Social Studies Techbook (Grades 6-8) and Math Techbook (Grades 6-12) into classroom instruction. In addition, 44 Caddo educators helped develop the district’s culture of STEM education by participating in Discovery Education’s STEM Leader Corps, a six-year professional learning program that develops and nurtures teachers and administrators as they build a culture of STEM teaching and learning in their school system.

Discovery Education’s STEM Leader Corps offered Caddo Parish educators professional development opportunities, job-embedded instructional coaching, and administrative leadership support. Through their engagement in the program, educators developed high-quality STEM lessons, transdisciplinary units, and leadership skills to grow a culture of STEM teaching and learning in their school system. Discovery Education experts worked closely with these teacher-leaders to establish ‘learning lab’ classrooms in their schools. These classrooms provided opportunities for colleagues to observe and collaborate on the instructional strategies demonstrated and modeled in the “learning lab” so they could apply similar teaching strategies in their own classrooms and share with their peers district wide.

“Here at Centenary, our elementary and secondary education majors are learning how to infuse content areas across the STEAM subject areas. There are numerous opportunities for teachers to make connections across curriculum content,” says Terrie Johnson, Education Department Chair and Assistant Professor. “A curriculum labeled STREAM is a very project-based, problem-solving curriculum that involves reading, writing, listening, and speaking.” She goes on to say that every school offers the same thing. It’s just more individualized. You can teach the same content every year, but you don’t teach it the same way every year. Students change, they learn differently, and the culture of the class changes from one year to the next. “Teachers become experts at creating that culture of learning that allows students to flourish. There are overarching standards that guide our work at every grade level in every content area.”

Ironically (or perhaps it was Kismet), while I was visiting Terrie Johnson, I was given a flyer for the inaugural FULL STEAM AHEAD Educator Symposium.

(yes, the event title was too good not to borrow for this story) This exciting new event will be hosted by Centenary College of Louisiana’s Department of Education and Center for Teaching and Learning. The symposium will provide professional development and networking opportunities. By bringing together educators from across disciplines and grade levels, Centenary’s objective is to showcase innovative teaching strategies and cutting-edge research that inspires new inquiry and ideas.

FULL STEAM AHEAD will be held Friday, February 9, 2024, with a Thursday evening reception on February 8, 2024, at Meadows Museum of Art on the Centenary College Campus.

The symposium will include:

Workshops (75 minutes) provide an interactive and immersive learning experience. Attendees actively participate and engage in hands-on activities, guided by facilitators. Joint proposals welcome.
Make-and-Take (75 minutes) sessions offer participants the opportunity to engage in creative learning activities. Attendees not only experience these activities but also leave with all the necessary materials and information to replicate them in their own classrooms or work environments.
Individual presentations (20 minutes) provide a platform for researchers, experts, or thought leaders to share their knowledge, insights, and findings with a wider audience. Individual presentations may be grouped by topic on the conference schedule.
Panel discussions (75 minutes) assemble multiple presenters to engage in a dynamic conversation centered around a specific topic or theme.
Poster presentations are visual displays of research, projects, or ideas. Presenters submit a description of their work in advance and bring a poster to the conference for display.

Everyone is welcome to attend, especially K-12 and college/university educators who teach or are interested in STEAM, future teachers, teacher educators, administrators who support teachers, community leaders who support teachers, and professional development providers.

As the Center for Innovation and Education explains, “STEAM engages students in learning. Many students have greater aptitude and affinity for either arts and humanities or mathematics and science. STEAM education, with its integrated and holistic approach, helps students conceptualize these disciplines as parts of a greater whole. Rather than feeling alienated or tuned out of certain subjects, they can collaborate with others to solve problems and see subjects they struggle with in a different way.

STEAM also taps into children’s natural curiosity and creativity. If you’ve ever tried to find answers to a long series of questions asked by a child, you know how inquisitive they are about the world around them! STEAM lessons focus on deep questioning and finding novel solutions rather than memorizing standard facts and figures that can easily be “Googled.” *

Here’s an acronym I made up that puts a button on this piece – STEP. Start Them Early Parents.

Every parent should take a deep interest in their child’s education from an early age. Our educators are doing their part. It’s time we STEPped up. (spell check is having a fit with this one.)

*Center for Innovation and Education, a division of Space Foundation, is a lifelong learning platform for the global space ecosystem that delivers workforce development and economic opportunity for students, teachers, entrepreneurs, and professionals via programs offered digitally worldwide or at Discovery Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

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THE TEACHER’S LOUNGE: BUILDING BRIDGES

SB Magazine — Sat, 13 Jan 2024 00:01:55 +0000

By Elaine Pool

“A wish is something you would like to see. A dream is something you would work hard for. A plan is the bridge between a wish and a dream. Consistent execution is the bridge between your dream and reality.” When there’s an educator who functions under philosophies like these, you know you’ve got a winner. Dr. Bill Ray is an educator (he dislikes the title teacher) at Word of God Academy and this month’s private school Educator of the Month. He works under the mindset that he is in the classroom not only to impart knowledge but also to get his high-school students ready for the “real world.” To that end, his subjects include Senior Math, also called consumer math. He wants his students to be serious about learning because they are “practicing to be adults.”

Part of Bill’s goal as an instructor is never to let his students fail so badly, they can’t recover. He wants them to have a return path to excellence. He believes that giving kids second chances can literally transform their lives. His previous experience was as an Assistant Professor at Louisiana Tech University while simultaneously achieving his Doctor of Engineering at La. Tech. He spent 28 years at La. Tech, retired from there, and moved straight to Word of God Academy. Bill teaches everything math: Algebra, Senior Math, Physics, and Computer Programming. He says, “Algebra is my hammer; I still have my math.”

Bill is most proud of his “A/B or retry” policy, allowing students to retake a test until they achieve at least a “B” on it. He says, “That way, they master the knowledge.” He related a story of one of his university students who struggled for several years but never gave up. Upon graduation, the student brought his parents to meet Bill, telling them, “This is Dr. Ray. He’s the reason I graduated college.” Bill prefers to be called a professor: “I profess knowledge.”

Bill likes to cite Dave Ramsey, author, and financial advisor, by saying, “Adults make a plan and follow the plan. Children do whatever feels good in the moment.” His best moments are when he sees his students’ faces when he has “stamped out the little fire of ignorance.” He aims to get them ready for adulthood, for total independence financially.

Bill is one who did not take the traditional path towards being a teacher. Upon receiving his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering, he worked in the private sector for eight years before beginning his journey as a college professor and doctoral student. His doctorate took him twelve years due to being a full-time Assistant Professor at La. Tech, all the while commuting from Shreveport on a daily basis. Upon retirement, he realized that it was almost impossible to be a new hire as an engineer at his age, so he came on board at Word of God Academy.

What keeps Bill showing up? It’s not the money, of course; it’s the interactions with the kids. “I teach for the opportunity to annoy children. I get to make an impact on children. You can’t make someone learn something, but you can make them memorize something.”

Bill’s words of advice to students include this: “Have fun but don’t take life seriously. Have fun but live on purpose; recognize you’re prepping for a future. You will never have such great opportunities; food, clothing, and shelter all are provided to you. All you have to do is prepare yourself for when they (parents) are not doing it for you.”

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THE TEACHER’S LOUNGE: SPECIAL NEEDS

SB Magazine — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 23:57:50 +0000

By Elaine Pool

The road to becoming a teacher is not always a straight one. Someone can head in one direction, focused on a certain major in college and graduate school, then make a U-turn into something completely different. That happened with Tonya King, SB Magazine’s public-school Educator of the Month. Tonya has a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology and counseling and had planned to be a psychologist or Human Resources specialist in the business world. Then she walked into a classroom and began teaching, and her life changed totally. She fell completely in love with her students and with teaching.

Tonya started teaching at Sunset Acres Elementary School in Special Education and stayed there for five years. She moved to Desoto Parish schools for a five-year stint in regular education, then returned to Caddo Parish. She is once again a Special Education teacher at Keithville Elementary/Middle School and loves her job. She loves Caddo Parish Schools because the school system is so family-friendly. Her favorite part of teaching special needs students is being able to work more closely and individually with her students, have a deeper relationship with them, and see them blossom. She works hard to help them grow, with the goal of helping them move into classrooms with their peers. The hardest part of her job is having to say goodbye to them when they “age out” of her classroom. Wanting the best for them, however, Tonya knows they need to move on, so she makes sure they are ready.

Teaching special-needs children isn’t always a piece of cake. Instruction must be differentiated for each student because the same teaching methods don’t always work for every student. And, as Tonya’s goal is to help them move toward regular education classrooms, she often has to say goodbye to children she is in love with. Because she loves them, she wants the best for them. Tonya has had to help students transition to more specialized classrooms when her class isn’t the best fit for them and their needs. Her hardest experience was working with a student who had a significant amount of Autism. While the child was intelligent, they were very emotionally volatile, and Tonya’s classroom wasn’t meeting their needs. She had to advocate for the child with parents and school personnel to help them get the correct and needed placement.

Tonya works hard for and with her kids; she communicates with parents to ensure the lessons carry over and are reinforced at home. She must track and analyze test results to monitor progress and often creates Google slides of each lesson so the students can follow the lesson visually.

She says, “The kids are what keeps me showing up to school. I love the kids!” Tonya has a super-bubbly personality; she can be goofy and have fun with her students, which elementary children really like and respond to. She tells her students that she loves them all day long to ensure that they hear that as much as possible, even if they don’t hear it at home a lot. The love Tonya shows her students is evident when watching her interact with them. The children respect her and the rules, follow directions to the best of their abilities, and come up for hugs frequently during the day.

When asked to give advice to someone who might be considering a teaching career, Tonya suggested that they go and observe multiple public schools; not every school and grade level is the same. If Tonya could give advice to her 22-year-old self, she would tell young Tonya to major in Education from the beginning rather than Psychology and save the student loans! That’s some serious wisdom from a voice of experience.

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