2023 NAEP
Long-Term Trend Release; Insights from students and teachers.
2022 Panel Discussion- Nation's Report Card
NAEP Panel Discussion November 2022.
Prep for Fall 2023.
So What? This discussion paves the way to increase hours and days to the school year. Increase test times and increase subject matters to be tested.
Now what?
Read, watch, both- neither. Use critical thinking skills to figure out who this is benefitting and who this is not.
Spring 2023 recap note
Dear Students,
This concludes I.School spring 2023. The focus apparently became the National Association of Educational Progress, in charge of testing, and thus directing curriculum for public education. Truth be told, I went down a bigger rabbit hole than expected with the NAEP. Oh, it is my thing. It is what I like to do, don’t get me wrong. Totally my educational playground. Research and what not. But it is not good news and not easy to convey. I’m working on this, truth to be told.
Here is what we have so far:
Question. What is the purpose of education?
“Either/Or” Paradox and contradictions.
“More or Less ”Hierarchy of needs”
*Yea, taking a break. I.School Field Trip! Next!
4. Four-Square Game
5. Full circle. Cognitive Dissonance; Justified True Belief; and Vectors.
Ciao for now.
‘teacher’ In-Service, I
I. Question
The NAEP answer.
Groundhog Day
It’s Groundhog Day again. Again.
0 All or Nothing
“Escape from nothingness is a denial of freedom and reality. There is no-thing. Only the process is real;”
“Freedom is what we do with what has been done to us.”
~Sartre
Objective: Recall (rec-all) Lessons 1 (A-F) through 10. I.School Fall 2022.
*Think of a glass jar (or get one for this project). Ask: Is it empty of full? All or nothing?
Order:
You are #1. Recall A-F.
Awe. Breathe, bee conscious. Deliciously delight in Enjoying and Feeling (5 senses).
This semester we will focus on Business Management Systems and their impact on education. Choose a Virtuous path.
Chose from one of mine- See 4-10 (eastern, western philosophy), Or chose one of your own. But chose a path of morality. Or not. It’s up to you.
Ask yourself- “how much do you know about how and why you are in school?” All? Nothing?
What I will provide for you is Nothing. Nothing but the Truth. More or less.
* Fill your jar with one thing you want or need. I recommend it be- free, sustainable, intrinsic. Oh, and have some fun while you are at it!
Nothing
Lesson Plan: 0
In this lesson we will: Learn nothing, and how learning nothing can be something. Just thoughts to ponder.
Lesson Overview:
How are you? What do you do? What are you doing? How are you doing? Questions we ask, and are asked on a daily scale. Answers vary, but not by much. Answers include- “fine; I am a __so in so__, and do__such and such__; I am doing, ok.”
How much information is obtained by asking these questions? What do we expect to get? All information about a person? Nothing? Or something in-between?
The purpose of this lesson is to simply pause, and question. In essence, “do” nothing.
Warm-Up:
Take a breath. If someone were to ask you, “what are you doing?” You may be inclined to say, “nothing”. Yet, clearly you are doing something. Breathing.
When you sleep, eat, and (if you) play, might you say the same? While sleeping, eating and playing, you are indeed engaging in something; however, do you feel like you are “doing” something?
Picture an empty jar. What is inside?
Discussion Questions:
Do you feel like you always have to be doing something?
Where does that notion come from?
Do the very questions we ask, like “how are you,” help or hinder daily interactions?
Now what?
If you come into I.School thinking or believing you know it “all”. Then you will probably get noting much. Nothing worthy of your time.
If you come into I.School thinking or believing you know nothing about education, you might get all uncomfortable for a bit, then something.
What I want from you is nothing. You just keep being you. What I will provide is information. All with my best intentions.
Nothing but the truth.
Resources:
https://www.theschooloflife.com/article/wu-wei-doing-nothing/
Welcome 2023
Dear students,
Welcome back to a new I.school year! 2023.
In first semester I.School we laid out a foundation. 1-12. #1. You are the priority (you are always #1 to I). 2. Schools are run by archaic business management systems profiting from, well,… you. 3. Initiate self-care. 4-10, is intended to provide samples of virtuous paths for your guidance (if you do not already have a foundation to draw from.) 11 and 12 wrapped up first semester learning with a new start. A final. Another beginning.
This semester’s lessons will focus on Application. #0-5.
Whereas last semesters intent is grounding (to be continued and revisited later), this semesters experiment is questioning the application of lessons starting from 0. Zero.
Zero-
The number of times “because I said so” will be accepted as an answer to the question, “why do we have to learn this?” You deserve a rational reasonable answer as to why you are required to take X classes.
Time wasted on business management style meetings. All the meetings.
Effort on activities that do not have a positive impact on student well being.
Social, political, economic or scientific agenda from me. (Of course I have biases because, well, I am human. My only concern is you, the student. I am willing to bend into truth when in error.)
Money. Genuine learning does not have “service fees”.
Regard for ‘likes’, dislikes, opinions. I don’t care what you think of me or I.School.
Time arguing with others about education. (**this may be in error).
Zero- “Work”- home-work, busy-work, or any other weapons of mass distraction keeping you from you.
Regrets I have for spending time with students. Not one. Not ever. (I miss you all!)
Talking about I.School. Not yet. Not until it makes sense. (If someone says “because I said so”, I do not recommend you reply with I.School remarks until 2025).
PS, None of this will make sense until it makes sense. And when it does. IF it does. Please refer back to fall 2022 Lessons 1-10. You are going to need it.
Sincerely,
I, Your ‘teacher’ In-Service
Semester 0 Outline
0. Number sense. “All or None.”
Priority perspective. Lessons from the past.
Paradox and contradictions. “Either/Or”
Hierarchy of needs. “More or Less”
More truths.
Full circle. (I.School goes to college) May 2023.
Zero
-0 New Year’s Resolution
Lesson 0/5 Spring 2023
Prerequisite: I.School Lessons 1-10. 2022
0 Zero:
The Number of New Years Resolutions I am making this year.
Question: Why?
First, if we define Resolution as: the act of analyzing a complex notion into simpler ones. (MW) we can answer the why-
Because (New Years) resolutions (as prescribed by BM’s, #2 in terms of diets, gym memberships etc.in response to holiday spurring, for example) have not worked in the past. Simple.
Because of the “work” we did last semester, the act of creating a foundation (notions thereof), is already complete. Now we simply follow it. 1-10
Because step #4 I.School, level One states: Suffering is caused by expectations based on false truths.
Therefore, expect Less. Suffer less.
Our final last semester IS the solution to this semester. Now we can start at Zero and work our way up.
Zero. Nothing. Less than nothing, which is something.
Notes on Zero:
Synonyms include- decision, judgement, determination. Word.
All right then. We (I) made a decision to change. Now that the resolution is complete, we can test it. Again and again. Keep what works. Change as necessary. Repeat.
Zero- Policy
Social, idol gossip.
Political affiliation. I have none, so I will explore them all.
Religion. I love to learn them all, therefore I practice none officially.
Money. Education needs to be free. I want nothing from you.
Tolerance of any lesson that does not explain what and why.
Hi 12!
I.School
1.2.
Objective:
What do you want?
Procedure:
Scientific Experiment 1.2.
Notes:
The purpose of semester one I.School is to set up solid personal foundations of self-care. Establishing the “I,”physically, emotionally, intellectually, and through values and behaviors you decide upon.
And before the I, what is the Why? I mean why put any effort into self care? Why is it? Why is it that you want to do?
My Why is the I. My why is U. Students with a capital U. Why? because U asked me to.
Which brings me to my I.School final project. In other words, what have I done for my own revolution?
I care, but grammar and punctuation is not going to be a top priority in I.School. On purpose. Mostly. Have you ever written an essay for school with any sort of authenticity or heart only to have it returned with red “frags,” misspellings, grammar and punctuation corrections? My thought is, that what you have to say is more important than fragmented sentences and pronoun protrusions alliterated. Who you are is more important! The fixings can come later. So, yea, I do imagine grammar elitists and quasi perfectionist squirming at mah gaffs and mixed up sentence structure and downright made up words. Your welcome. Childish rebellion snugging out. This is not a grade! You do not get to grade my revolution. So there! And also, I do think clarification is important and I am open for helpful editing by trusted students, but the message comes first! Darn
I quit! Before I retired, I took a permanent sabbatical. This is important because I chose not to participate in a system that I think is cruel and unusual to kids. Quitting is not a favorite party conversation, so it usually gets changed to peoples dreamy eyed questions of retirement. “What’s it like?” Followed by, what they think it will be like for them. “… I bet sleeping in is the best.” Seniors in high school understand that conversation. For example, when asked, what do you want to do after graduation? If you say go to college, “take a year off to…” do anything. Many conversations get harangued, manipulated into what the other wants to hear. Make sense? My point is, I had to make some hard decisions. People want to think ‘revolution’ is out there somewhere, or someone else has to do it. I am telling you it was not easy and I have hurt people in the process. It is important to clarify that although I am more-truly enjoying this life now, it has not been without struggle.
I retired. Early. I loved teaching and I saw myself substituting or teaching on and off for the rest of my life. It’s not uncommon for retired teachers/ people in education to return. I chose not to. I am “lucky” to have the option. This is a warning for future employees. Having the option to retire at any age is dwindling. #2 business management systems prefer forced labor. Less income, more labor. Conversations in the meantime will lead you to believe success/ paradise/ retirement is right around the corner. Just obey.
I lost 40 pounds. And kept it off for two years. Two light years.
I cut my hair. Long story. Short.
I got fired from a food service job after three days. Short story. Longer than I wanted.
I/we bought a van that I like to call a little I.school bus. Well, it has so many names. Goldie Vawn, Apa, the mystery machine, TBD.
I started a pretend school. I.School became my playground. What started off as a joke in class has become my life.
I.School plus one van = Travel ‘Learning on a bus’.
I have taken classes, read books, practiced skills, learned to cook.
I have created personal structure within flexibility, which is my motto. The freedom to do what I want needs structure. However, it is my structured order. It is not the order of #2’s agenda. M-F Saturday and Sunday.
I have started traveling around, in my van-bus. Listening and learning. Recording.
12 O’ Clock.Tick tock. “High Noon” sounds too ominous. But “Hi 12” is a more cheerful, still poignant point, I’d like to make. What do you want? What are you waiting for? 1.2.
End of semester Report:
I have not woken up to an alarm in two years. I sleep more better. Eating dis-order became more ordered. I have more fun, more meaningful daily high-lights. I am doing what I love so much- learning. Too bad I couldn’t do it in school. So, I’m creating my own.
Below are 4 ID photos depicting my last decade teaching.
Below that is my semester 2022 Fall Final. A learning experiment.
**
2008-09
After 10 years of being part time. Hair straight. Refreshed.
2014-15
Uh oh. Full-time four years later.
2018-19
Somehow the “school-spirited” festive hat does not adequately hide my clenched teeth and obvious physical changes.
2019-20
Oh yea, she’s gone.
What could possibly happen this school year?
I.School 2021-2022
Coast to Coast.
So Far….. So Good!!
12 Tide Lessons
For the first quarter learning- I.School taught to me:
The Freedom and liberty to breathe
Two, Too, little love
Three fresh lense(s)
Four Noble Truths
5- Golden Rules!
Six Ways of Tao
Seven- sinners sinning
Eight students sitting
Nine- Mine is dancing
10- Considerations
11- Time is ticking…
12-Tides a turning.
“There is a point. . . when you have to chose whether to be like everybody else the rest of your life, or make a virtue of your peculiarities”
This one goes to 11
I.School I.
Step 11
Objective: 11 Revolution
“This one goes to 11” A Preamble.
Define Revolution
Evaluate motivations for revolution
Re-evaluate revolution
Procedure
Define Revolution as:
1- :The actions of an orbiting body
:Time taken for rotation of a body on its axis
2- :An overthrow or renunciation of a situation
:A fundamental change in organization; or thinking about something
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/revolution
Evaluate motivations for revolution as:
First, let’s talk about he changing of a word. “Revolution.”
1- Cyclical recurrences like “the revolving of a wheel” or celestial bodies moving in circular course was the origin of revolution. Synonyms include: turn, whirl, twirl, spin, lap, roll. Those ideas metamorphosed into socio-political spheres with violent changes in 17th century Europe. Synonyms of revolution also changed to words such as: riot, rioting, sedition, coup d’atet, and more “violent” uprisings and overthrows.
16th century scientists were indeed subject to violence for pointing out truths about the universe. The Glorious Revolution, the French Revolution continued a pattern of violence in both actions and vocabulary. https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=revolution
2- Which leads a critical mind to thinking and asking, “what is revolution”… to you? I cannot speak on behalf of planets or celestial bodies, as to their individual motivations of revolution. That would be silly. Plus, science explains that rather nicely, even if I cannot understand it more fully myself. My question is more personal. What, or better yet why would you want to change? I mean we change every day, but mostly unintentionally. What change would you want to see? Intentionally.
Re-define revolution for evaluation as: preambulary. Preambulary- stating intent. Literally meaning pre-before; and amble- walk. Think about what you want before you walk that path.
1- Personally define Revolution: (What do you want?)
1- Live that. (How will you do that?)
Suggested Readings
Define Revolution: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revolution
Observations:
One. One. *11 is a numerical palindrome. Isn’t that fun‽.
One is- it is time to change public education.
the other One is- public education isn’t going to change any time.
Therefore- I will take my time to change (my) education for one public, “the I.” 12/12/2022 is my pre-ambulary re-public. That cracks me up. But difficult to know if what I am saying makes sense to any one but me.
Like so many other misunderstandings within communication, the assumption we think we know what “the other” is saying is absurd. Case in point-
The other: “Ingrid, what are you going to do after you retire?”
I: Im going to start a revolution.
The others: Get in line; You and what army!?; (simply laughter); and “oh, I can’t wait to see that!”
I’m thinking- what are people imagining? Pitchforks and muskets? (Why is it always pitchforks and muskets?). Do we assume the word revolution turns into self-imagery of Les Miserables? (Or is it La Cage aux Folles?) Either way, my definition of revolution needs clarification.
I Logic: What are people fighting a revolution for? In other words, I want to skip that middle part of the fighting and get to the why and the what. I’m not that clever, so I’ll use someone else’s work to mimic behavior.
Preamble test. I the people, (currently living in the United States), in order to form a, not perfect, but a more- perfect union. Establish justice (fairness), insure domestic tranquility (start at being more better at home with myself and family), defend a common cause (students!), promote just being generally a better person to myself and others. Secure blessings of Liberty- I don’t think I have the authority to ‘bless’ anything, but Freedom is a gift to be sure. Difficult to obtain, but worth the struggle to myself and “our posterity”. That is where you come in. You, the future. Kids. My students. My teachers. My why. I do ordain (again, not sure I have the authorization to ordain), or officially decree. Decree? Do I say.. what then? I do declare!!!? No that does quite fit. Um, I just want to say that there is someone out here fighting for you. As insignificant as it is, as I am, it’s something, if not ‘just’a pre-amble.
Just for fun: This is Spinal Tap: “This one goes to 11”
10 Considerations
I.School I.
Step 10
Objective: 10 Considerations
Evaluate: suggestions as to what it might take to live an illusive “authentic” life.
Notes- Consider the following:
One Truth, or at least consider a humble pursuit of truth.
Be weary of False profits; ads for profit.
Be true to words.
Take your time, back.
Cultivate reverence for the wise.
Live conscientiously (Keep spirt A-live).
Enact physical boundaries.
Steal creative ways to be content.
Lie, in truth.
Be careful what you wish for. Consider it. Really, ruminate on it.
Suggested Readings
9 is Mine.
I.School I.
Step 9
Objective/ Subjective: “9 is Mine”
Recall the 9th Amendment to the Constitution
To Identify personal values and behaviors
Notes
1. 9th Amendment to the Constitution states:
“The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage
others retained by the people.”
Let’s explore- break it down.
enumerated: Rights numbered or listed in Article 1 Section 8 of the US Constitution.Not a biggie, just translating.
Rights- being in accordance with what is just, good, or proper as in “right conduct”
Construed- interpreted “understood”
Disparage- regard or represent as being of little worth
Retained- owned or cherished, protected (sacred)
In other words, it’s an Amendment just for you! An I- mendment!
Congress shall have the powers listed in Article 8, but the 9th Amendment in the Bill of Rights, (not the Bill of Powers;) addresses the “great residuum of rights that have not been thrown into the hands of the government,” James Madison. Yep, Madison warned not adding a Bill of Rights would give “enlarged powers” to officials. Isn’t that exciting?! Not even congress can deny….
Ok, I digress and get way into history. Anyhoo-
Now what? Lots of room for interpretation.
Procedure
Identify your own values. Rights.
I.School lessons 0-8 were used as my guide- after much research, pondering and fierce experimentation.
Consider the following criteria:
Time. Truth. Trust
Balance. Flexibility. Strength
Dance. Draw. Dream
Time is an upmost priority! A Right, Valued treasure.
Truth may not be possible but I can get close. Closer er to some truths anyway.
Trust myself first. This is tricker than it sounds.
Balance and moderation. Good to know. Harder to do.
Flexibility within structure. Lots of structure.
Strength of character. I.School foundation. Just starting.
Dance. Sacred dance. Move.
Draw to create. Creativity is the real Virtue here but I like D’s.
Dream to inspire. (I mean literal dreams, not hyperbole, like “living the dream”)
*** The beauty, as I see it, is the interactive relationships with my 9 chosen values. Inter-change-able, and de-pendant as well as interdependent on the other values.
Now that I formulated 9 values, now what? Is it All or None? Either/ Or? More or less?
Now, what about you?
It is my experience that what we tend to say what our values are, are usually not what we actually do, do.
Bumper sticker philosophies. Example: Getting cut off, flipped off, or otherwise vehicularly offended is often accompanied with a bumper sticker that says something like- “Bee Kind” or “Respect Life.” Which is it?
Suggested Readings
Your own words.
Read your last few texts. The ones that you wrote. Do they support your values?
What was the last memorable thing you said to someone?
What are the last three songs you listened to? Who do you invite into your head?
How do you spend your time?
Who do/ don’t you spend your time with?
Do they share your values?
What exactly are your values? Are they ‘your’ values? Are they “working” for ya?
How do you think, by following the path you are on now- not later- will look in 5 years? 10?
Do your actions mirror your bumper stickers?
Would you recommend your values to others?
Are your values universal? Does that matter?
I suggest you simply look at your surroundings. Perhaps a little more focus on the I. Or not.
Observations:
One foreseeable glitch can occur when we start to compare values. For example, I can hear,“oh, I don’t dance.” Conversation over.
Ok, well you might like a sport or music or shadow puppets… It’s a passion, but as a Value? Well it’s dedication, diligence to a craft. Appreciation for physical ability without envy, ideally. Creativity. Wholesomeness. Diligence is the value.
The stories are peripheral, the values are at the center.
Now that I think about it, talking about values can get competitive, combative, ironically.
I don’t know why this happens. Quick lick conversations.
I can also accept that it might be my lack of grace within my own communication skills. Must. Work. On that.
Another obvious obstacle (to me) is actually defining what a particular value means. Truth, for example gets mucky because we want our wishes, our egos to be right, neglecting non-biased more painful truths. And that is what keeps us stuck. Yes?
It is a challenge to attempt to live a more ‘virtuous’ life.
When I “take my time,” for example, it is assumed I must be lazy, crazy or just old. Why? Because I’m not working for someone else? Like being asked to ‘administer’ tests for giant companies at the cost of kids mental health? Well call me Slothy! ~silly
Truth is very unpopular. Simple or not. As a truth-seeker, it’s annoying. I’m annoying. Trust me.
Who can you trust? If you have any trustworthy people- that is a gift. If you do not, I understand. Either way, it is most advantageous to begin to Trust yourself. It takes time and patience.
Oh, I hear “live a balanced, flexible” life. How? When? With who’s time? Too busy working an unbalanced rigorous life. It takes strength to “take your time”.
Dancing and Drawing are seen as a frivolous ‘past time’. How sad. It is a healthy virtuous form of creative expression that pairs well with dreams.
Dreams. Ah. I love those who don’t diminish their own dreams. The weird, freaky nonsensical movies in your mind may not be as nonsensical as many claim. I value the courageous dream voyeurs!
“The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.”
I do not think it too far to interpret that cherished rights, “being in accordance with what is just and good”
You have the right to be good. The right to pursue a valued, more meaningful life.
And, this shall not be denied nor disregarded.
PS
I wonder if the word ‘value’ needs clarification.
Pop quiz- for I.School which of the following definitions of “value” best fits this lesson?
:a monetary return or equivalent in goods, services, or money for something exchanged
:a numerical quantity that is assigned or determined by calculation or measurement
:the relative duration of a musical note
:relative lightness or darkness of a color
:something (such as a principle or quality) intrinsically desirable
*Intrinsic: belonging to the essential nature or constitution of a thing.
Answer: All are correct. However, E, “you have the right to your essential constitution” is the preferable answer.
Bottom Line. You may agree with criticisms of current circumstances, now what?
Philosophically, to get grounded is intrinsically desirable. You can’t go wrong with a virtuous path, ‘sorry’.
Nine is Mine, and it it Yours too.
8 Cruel and Unusual
I.School
Step 8
“Hidden in Plain Sight”
Recall the 8th Amendment to the constitution of the US
Analyze criteria for what constitutes as cruel and unusual;
Evaluate criteria of public education
Procedure:
The Eighth Amendment to the US Constitution states: “excessive bail ought not to be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.
Consider the following 8 criteria for possible cruel or unusual: Physical, emotional, economic, through coercion, intimidation, blame, control, imbalance of power. (See suggested readings).
Notes:
Although we usually think of the 8th Amendment as it applies to the death penalty, it is not explicit. As part of the Bill of Rights, these protections were added “to prevent Congress to use cruel punishments as a tool for oppressing the people”. Constitution Center
So as the question: “What is the purpose of public education?” To learn? Learn what? Freedom? “Liberty and Justice”, as recited in the “Pledge of Allegiance?” Or, is the purpose of public education a tool for oppression? You decide. Here are some thoughts:
Physical- Like, Sitting in a desk while physical prime- (ages 5-18 approximately)
Emotional- name calling, belittling, isolation, lack of sleep.
Economic- Being financially tied to getting, as well as paying for your education.
Threats and coercion- Fear based education. What other options do you really have?
Intimidation- by parents, teachers, governments, peers, bosses, coaches, you students get it all!
Blame- You get blamed on a system you had no control over in the first place.
Control- By legal mandates.
Power- Imbalance of power.
Observations:
In my experience, questioning the education system gets two responses. One, most will agree that education is ‘flawed’ to say the least. And then, secondly, if pushed, to really big concepts, there is major push back.
Students understand better than anyone the circumstances they are in, but when students complain, or point out suffering, they are dismissed, ridiculed and quickly silenced (By those in power). “Sit down and shut up.”
Adults don’t listen to me, and they certainly aren’t listening to students. Regardless of the myriad of mental illnesses, school shootings, and suicides.
If schools were designed for the “whole” child in mind, then why is there so much suffering?
Cruel and unusual inflictions with the intention to control and coerce -lack of agency- lack of freedom- for the purpose of creating and maintaining economic global power is an alternative answer. And nothing new. After all, no empire can maintain control without institutionalized education.
At this point, I will say, either you believe it or you don’t. If you don’t, carry on. For those who agree, this is problematic. What to do, what to do? I predict some of you will try to tell someone, argue your case. I predict you will not get far.
However, if you chose to believe what I am saying, then-
My suggestion: Start at Lesson #1 I.School.
1. You are #1! Sitting in #2-
2. A hierarchical education system. Therefore;
3. Ah, breathe, consciously, deliciously, enjoying five senses. Practice A-F
Meaning- take slow steps to be ‘more whole.’ After all, how effective will you be if you are tired, hungry, sick and detached?
Breathe, sleep, eat, play, sense. In other words, cultivate being human.
I do NOT recommend you attempt external conversations and confrontations, for now.
I DO recommend you do anything and everything you can to flourish. More.
What Do You Want?
Suggested Readings
https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubpdfs/define.pdf
https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2022/05/31/schools-mental-health-covid-students/
e/
https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/amendments/amendment-viii`
I.Rant:
I got this lesson idea after watching the Netflix show- Surviving R. Kelly and I started thinking about parallels between abuses inflicted by R.Kelly, and how systematically, psychologically his techniques, and all accomplices resembled public education. He learned well. Cyclically.
I.School lesson #8 is about public education and similarities and patterns of abuse. Nothing more.
Nothing less than pointing out the obvious. Talk about hidden in plain sight!
I.School: *recall Ren and reverence for humanity. It may seem easy, convenient, to blame R.Kelly. However, isn’t he a product of this system?
It is important to remember this.
Chief Justice Earl Warren said: "The [Eighth] Amendment must draw its meaning from the evolving standards of decency that mark the progress of a maturing society." (1958),
Consider a description of Psychological abuse:
Psychological abuse, often called emotional abuse, is a form of abuse characterized by a person subjecting or exposing another person to a behavior that may result in psychological trauma, including anxiety, chronic depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
It is often associated with situations of power imbalance in abusive relationships, and may include bullying, gaslighting, and abuse in the workplace. It also may be perpetrated by persons conducting torture, other violence, acute or prolonged human rights abuse, particularly without legal redress such as detention without trial, false accusations, false convictions, and extreme defamation such as where perpetrated by state and media. Wikipedia.
And, consider a definition of Freedom:
Freedom: the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action; liberation from restraint or from the power of another; the quality of being frank, open, or outspoken; boldness of conception or execution. Merriam-Webster
Questions?
11/11/22
Remembrance Day
11/11/22
I.School 2022
On Monday, November 11, 1918 The Great War (WWI) “ended”. Armistice Day or Remembrance Day was created among nations around the world.
“Armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”
The US The United States Congress officially recognized the end of World War I with these words:
Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and
Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and
Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples. https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp
Most Destructive. Hope for peaceful relations between nations. Anniversary designed to perpetuate peace- through good will. Appropriate ceremonies.
Right. Let us reflect. WWI, Most destructive? Not for a long time. Hope for peace? There was a WWII, so. Oh, and the Cold War, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf, Iraq.
November 11th was formerly known as Armistice Day; in the United States it was given its new name in 1954 at the end of the Korean War to honor all veterans. Veterans Day is observed with memorial ceremonies, salutes at military cemeteries, and parades.
Right. Honor, Service, Sacrifice. Veterans Day. No apostrophe, because it is a day to honor all Veterans. Seems like a minor detail to us non-linguistics. However it made me think. Do you know any Veterans? I do too. I hold quiet reverence for anyone served. I will never know. I can never know what each one experienced. I can only know what I read, which can be brutal. Sanguinary. (No I did not know what that word meant).
Sanguinary means involving or causing much bloodshed. Ok, What kind of celebrations are appropriate today? In the name of much bloodshed? What kind of ‘celebrations’ would Ukraine and Russian peoples ‘enjoy’ to see today, say?
Online- Let’s take a look at US Veterans Day:
Lots of flags.
“Freebees, deals, and meals”
Discounts on donuts, chicken, pancakes, and coffee.
Businesses advertising ‘good will’ for Veterans (Is that what was meant by good will?)
Ok.
Next. A Pop up- Ad
VA Crisis Hotlines- Open for All Veterans. 24/7
Crisis Hotline: for a cost.
Get a free coffee, pay for PTSD. (Is that what was meant by good will?)
I will pass on saying “Thank you for your service,” today.
Why?
Because it can be a self-serving platitude.
Because I do not want to assume anyone who has served in a conflict would want to hear this.
Because it minimizes complicated experiences, emotions and possible trauma.
Because it keeps us uplifted, and further from truths.
Because it keeps us from the ugliness- and that is part of the problem.
Because it is not enough.
Anyone who serves through sacrifice deserves much more. Yet, here we are, back. Year after year.
The “Great War” never ended. Hostilities rage on. WWI participants, wanted “a war to end all wars.” Not happening. Especially when it is not taught. Especially when it is glorified and marketed. Especially when there is a War right now.
Increased production of goods has led to war- fighting over resources. So, a non-productive day would at least be more thoughtful.
Historically today is intended to be a somber day. That’s ok. So, I.School recommends-
Have a less “productive”and more, meaningful day.
~ For All.
Ghost letter
For Today,
Funny when things get quiet, different alarms go off around me. Why today, October 28th? Why do I feel suddenly sad and simultaneously grateful? Beholden even? Compelled to write to a ghost this morning.
Time’s turned inside out. This isn’t a Monday, it’s a Friday. How much time has passed after you? What a strange space to be in. What an odd thought. What a weird sentence. Why do I think you would get deep with me right now? (Pause).
Memories are so weird! You were so weird! Thats why I adored you so much! Still do.
Spending time with you was one of the greatest gifts of my career. We connected in such a special unmuted tenor. I know it sounds mushy and I would laugh more at myself if I said it out loud, and yet I treasure it like a bubble. Memories of our one-on-one, after school chats. A fragile fragment of time that seems so real. Odd. Sepia-dreaming.
Listening to you. Laughing with you, crying with you.. It was real wasn’t it? My philosopher pal?
Whats the proof? Ooooh, that is deep. Challenge accepted.
One, I have a playlist you made. Two,“I feel it in my bones.” Feel it in my bones?! Three, pictures and A Facebook page. Is that enough? Proof of life? Seems like, um… that’s it? Oh, dear. Seriously?
Words, music, and a bracelet… Yep, I’m laughing my ass off too!
Life it a trip!
Now I’m full on having a pretend conversation with you. I don’t care if none of this makes sense- to anyone else. I just wanted to say hello today. Oh, and while I am at it I also pretend you dedicated “My Kind of Woman” by Marc DeMarco to me. (I hope it’s not creepy, that wold be awkward). Like a teacher-student graduation song. Just you and I having a philosophical moment of time. You and I like being comfortable in discomfort!
Comfortable in awkwardness, and you made me feel like I mattered. You once thanked me for being a good teacher. Lucky, lucky me!
Anyway, Holding sincere reverence for you has been exquisite pain. Today, I celebrate Life with you J! Thinking of you.
Oh, and just wait and see where I’m going with I.School! I think you would enjoy. “I’ll show you my world.” Be patient with me, 2023. :)
I.Newson
7 Sins and Virtues
I.School
Step 7
Objective: 7 Sins and Virtues
To identify 7 Sins
To identify 7 Virtues
Identify Aristotle’s Four Cardinal Virtues
Notes
Around 400 BCE, Plato and later Aristotle philosophized on human behaviors which helped shape western religious doctrines such as 7 sins and virtues, They can be named and memorized, easily enough, but why care? Why are they supposedly definitive? What makes a sin a deadly sin? A virtue a cardinal virtue
Procedure:
Recall. Prior to looking, see how many sins and virtues you can name.
Sins: Virtues:
Answer:
Seven Deadly sins- lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy and pride;
Seven Cardinal virtues- chastity, temperance, charity, diligence, patience, kindness and humility.
2. Compare with Aristotle’s Four Cardinal Virtues of: Prudence, Justice, Temperance, Courage.
Define Cardinal as: “pertaining to a hinge;” or points to “north, south, east, west” https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=cardinal
3. Self Reflect. Why or why not would you want to follow any path? Virtuous or not?
4. Ask: What does this have to do with I.School? (Indeed.)
Does your school practice fairness, justice, moderation, balance, kindness, strength of character? Or, imbalance, extremes, fear-based learning? Not what schools say, but what they Do?
5. *If needed- go back to 1,2,3. You are #1! You are learning in an organized structure (2), and remember A-F. Ah, breathe consciously, deliciously enjoying five senses. Breathe 3.
Observations:
Thats just it. Just reflect. Observe. I am not here to tell you what to do or how to live. The choice is yours. I simply wish to provide alternative considerations. With that being said, here are my notes, and my conclusions.
Interestingly, when I have asked classes (people in general) to name seven sins and virtues, most can name more sins than virtues. Try it. People can rattle off 3 or 4 sins- thanks to movies and pop culture, I think. Ask them to name virtues? One or two, max can be identified. Not that it really matters, and yet…when we focus more on sins than virtues. Our thoughts. Our thoughts become words, words become actions, actions become habit.
Moreover, what do we think “deadly” is? And what is the opposite? ‘Lively”? To Live. To flourish.
Can we, as individuals flourish in a school that provides a less than optimal flourishing environment?
Hmmm, thats a dinger. So-
If I consider Four Cardinal Virtues as living the ‘good life’, a flourishing life,
And I would want that for myself as well as for students
and the ‘good life’ consists of 4 hinged points- Prudence, Justice, Temperance and Courage
*(and Cardinal is defined as a hinge. A baseline like North, South, East,West)
Therefore:
I am compelled to follow-
Prudence:
Prudence is gained primarily through living life. Only the keen observer of human nature, the person who has both experienced many things and reflected on these experiences, can develop the ability to judge what actions will and will not lead to happiness. Aristotle’s moral framework thus emphasizes the role of mentors in the ethical life. We must learn how to judge rightly from those who have experienced more than we have and who have gained insight over the course of their lives. Moral education, then, is key. Living virtuously is much easier for those who have been trained by the prudent, and so have been brought up to avoid making certain mistakes in life.
Justice:
Justice may require a simple reciprocity. If I buy a cup of coffee, I owe the seller the posted price. But it may be more complicated. For example, a wounded veteran may deserve more from the state than an average citizen, since he or she has sacrificed more. In any case, the just person desires to give nothing less than what is due. No one can be short-changed, swindled, or mistreated in any way.
Temperance:
The temperate person does not despise pleasure. Rather, this person subordinates his or her appetites to the greater human good—putting them in their proper place in human life. The temperate person enjoys good food and good wine, but partakes in only as much as the occasion demands. By being incorporated into the whole good life, these pleasures can be what they were meant to be for human beings, rather than undermining our flourishing.
Courage:
The courageous person regulates their emotions, disposing them so that they are willing to face dangers for the sake of what is right. Otherwise, fear or bravado could cloud the judgment of prudence, or overcome the desire of justice to act rightly. For Aristotle, there are two ways not to be courageous: excessive timidity and excessive boldness, between which courage strikes a balance.
Courage in particular involves bravery in the face of death, because death is the greatest sensible evil. The courageous is not one who is free from fear, but one who moderates fear lest it compromise good will. The brave is dauntless: she faces things as she ought to for honor’s sake. Calm beforehand, she is keen in the moment of action. The rash one is anything but calm. The rash are often young, inexperienced, impulsive, and prone to anger. Often the rash hothead wishes for dangers beforehand, but actually shrinks from them in the moment. Thus, rashness is sometimes a mask for the opposite flaw: cowardice. The coward lets fear keep her from doing what is right.
“Courage is a virtue precisely because one acts resolutely despite one’s justified fears. That is, course is not the lack of fear, but its mastery.” www.fontiersin.org May3, 2021.
Ok. I hear ya. I’m working on it. Very busy, indeed.
In a Nut Shell:
Prudence is wisdom. Learning from mistakes.
Justice is recognizing what is fair.
Temperance is moderation.
Courage is pursuing virtue no matter what it takes. Facing fear of the light?
Conclusions:
As I am human, all too human, my first thought is usually not patience, for example. It’s wrath. Heart pounding “why, you @#$%! Cut me off in traffic…” That is my initial response. As a student/teacher in I.School, I see the virtue in allowing a second thought to slither in. (Slither?) Temper my temper- meant. Why? It feels better. In the long run. It feels better.
Sloth? Yep. Especially with standardized lessons. But slow diligent fortitude, like writing for I.School? It feels good, albeit painful and challenging.
Gluttony? Yum. Freedom from food obsession? Exquisite!
Envy. I’m enough. More than enough. I AM a full time job. Practicing self-kindness is a big commitment. I am very, very busy!
That goes for greed too. I have enough. More than enough. I could do with less, in fact.
Chastity does not need to be belts and abstinence. How about mutual permission minus manipulation? Age appropriate concession notwithstanding acquiescence. (I don’t know if that makes sense but it sounds fun).
Humility. I’m proud of my commitment to my craft, of teaching, but what was more rewarding is that I learned -over time- was the I was in the presence of greatness. Students. Your talents, intelligence, humor, honesty, stated and understated beauty. You humbled me. I am always honored in the presence of students.
Suggested Readings
https://examples.yourdictionary.com/examples-of-admirable-virtues.html
https://www.thecollector.com/aristotle-four-cardinal-virtues/
Cardinal: chief, pivotal," early 14c., from Latin cardinalis "principal, chief, essential," a figurative use, literally "pertaining to a hinge," from cardo (genitive cardinis) "that on which something turns or depends; pole of the sky,
The cardinal points (1540s) are north, south, east, west. The cardinal sins (c. 1600) are too well known to require rehearsal. The cardinal virtues (c. 1300) were divided into natural (justice, prudence, temperance, fortitude) and theological (faith, hope, charity). The natural ones were the original classical ones, which were amended by Christians. But typically in Middle English only the first four were counted as the cardinal virtues:
Of þe uour uirtues cardinales spekeþ moche þe yealde philosofes. ["Ayenbite of Inwyt," c. 1340]
By analogy of this, and cardinal winds (late 14c.), cardinal signs (four zodiacal signs marking the equinoxes and the solstices, late 14c.), etc., the adjective in Middle English acquired an association with the number four. Online Etymology Dictionary.
Other Suggested Readings:
I suggest you don’t. Put the books and articles down. Look around. Feel. Virtue silently. Don’t explain it. Virtue feels odd because we are not used to it, not because it’s odd to feel. (Light?)