Melinda S. Miller

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Schmoker Focus Book Study and Online Discussion

ASCD book of the month is Focus: Elevating the Essentials to Radically Improve Student Learning.
I wish I could remember where I first heard mention of this book but after reading Results Now by Schmoker I knew any book by this author would make sense with me. Then David Jakes mentioned it in his Educon conversation and I knew it would be good. (I find myself agreeing with David Jakes often even if my tweets and blogs do not reflect that.

After reading the first 2 chapters today this is definitely the right book at the right time, at least for me.
I started a google doc to get my thoughts on paper and I am sharing that with you. Just remember that these are my own random thoughts that I want to be able to come back to and might not make any sense to you. It is a public document so you are welcome to add your thoughts. If I have time I will make look a little more organized. Or maybe not:)

A group of us will also be discussing this on twitter on the next three Wednesday evenings. We will use the hashtag #ascdfocus and you can sign up here. Hmmmmm? How will this affect my leadership? Will I be able to be transparent on twitter?

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Have you thought about what it would be like to retire?  Are you within 5 years of retirement? Is retirement even an option for you? Here are 8 questions that can help you with retirement planning.In this video, I share with you the thinking that went into my decision to retire this year.As I spend the last 3 months in a career I have had for almost 3 decades, I have asked myself these questions: When, exactly, can I retire and bring home the most money?Missouri teacher retirement is amazing. If you can stick it out long enough, you can bring home as much as you were making when you were actually working. When I was married I ... Read More about Retirement Planning: 8 Questions to Ask Before Retiring

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Retirement mistakes are real but not detremental. Last year I wrote questions to ask yourself before you retire. One year later I have learned a lot. Hopefully, this list of retirement mistakes to avoid can help you with your retiremnt planning.Retirement is an exciting phase of life, promising the freedom to pursue passions and enjoy well-earned leisure. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Missteps in planning can lead to financial strain and boredom. Here are the top five retirement mistakes and how you can avoid them. 1. Not Having a Plan for Free TimeThe Mistake:The most exciting perk of retirement is looking ... Read More about Top 5 Retirement Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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Comments

  1. eduguy101 says

    February 15, 2011 at 6:04 pm

    This is a great idea, I wish I were able to be a part of the conversations, time is very slim lately.

    I too am part way through the book and find it relevant and informative. To tell the truth it is gratifying to know that what my district is doing is on the right track.

  2. mmiller7571 says

    February 16, 2011 at 5:24 pm

    I completely understand about lack of time. Our twitter talk time is bedtime for my girls so I will have to tweet while I lay down with them at night:)
    It is a really good book so far. Only through first 2 chapters tho:)
    Melinda

  3. Essay Writers says

    May 7, 2011 at 7:47 am

    The book sounds great .I will definitely read it.

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