Careers: Teaching/Expert Profile

Expertise

I can answer questions about teaching and learning in grades K-8, having taught all those grades. As a former principal I can discuss techniques and responsibilities in administration of public schools. I am especially familiar with California laws and educational history. I have no personal knowledge or experience with home schooling or private schools.

Experience in the area

Public School Teacher in grades K-8: All grade levels - specializing in English and Social Sciences. Specialist in Gifted and Talented Education. Specialist in Categorical Program Evaluation. Administrator (Principal or Assistant Principal) in elementary (K-6) and middle schools (6-8).

Organizations

Retired Principals Association UCLA Alumni Association

Publications

"What if...?" In-frequently Asked Questions by Principals "My Brain Makes Learning Fun: Gifted Students Speak Out" Vols 1 and 2 Yearly Categorical Program Evaluation Reports

Education/Credentials

B.A. from UCLA in English with a minor in Social Sciences. M.A. from California Polytechnic University in Education, specializing in Instructional Technology and Media CA Elementary Credential - Life CA Secondary Credential - Life (English & Social Sciences) CA Administrative Credential

What do you like about this subject?

I've been involved in public school teaching and administration for the whole of my working life. Teaching students and running schools is complicated, fascinating, emotionally satisfying, and intellectually stimulating.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I continue to read about education and mentor young administrators and teachers.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

I used the same techniques in questioning people (adults as well as children) that are used by law enforcement personnel - I had to take classes in recognizing deception. I just used the techniques with enough tact to make sure I could continue to work with the individuals after the issue was settled. Also, I couldn't lie to them to get to the bottom of a situation.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

In education we mostly have questions. Teaching to the test? "No Child Left Behind" is causing public schools to ignore all subjects except those tested in the spring? Shall teachers be compensated and evaluated based on the test scores of their students? These are the most controversial issues in education today.