Parenting Through a Pandemic - Perspectives VOLUME TWO NUMBER TWO - AmeriSchools Academy
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AmeriSchools
Perspectives VOLUME TWO NUMBER TWO
WINTER QUARTER 2021 ISSUE
AMERISCHOOLS ACADEMY
Parenting
Through a Pandemic
We proudly salute our amazing parents who
survived & thrived under unprecedented conditions
SEE PAGE 6
Working
Cooking
& Feeding
Shopping
Cleaning
Tutoring
Laundry
Baby &
Pet Sitting
1
The Chief Executi
T
here is ancient wisdom which this idea, were first established in the
reminds us that “we make our 1990’s, including AmeriSchools in 1996.
Dr. Reginald Barr choices and our choices then National School Choice Week, begun
former president of The make us.” As parents, entrusted in 2011, is led by Andrew Campanella,
Arizona State Board of
with consequential responsibility, we can founding and current president of the
Education and Associate
appreciate resources and organizations National School Choice Week organi-
Superintendent of the
that can help us choose wisely for our chil- zation, the non-profit of the same name
State Department of Ed-
ucation, is the founder of dren. With this in mind, AmeriSchools is which sponsors the annual event.
Charter Foundation, Inc., proud to, once again, participate in the cel- In 2020, the ideas underlying the
a non-profit organization ebration of National School Choice Week. week-long event were transcribed and
dedicated to developing made available by Campanella, as a
Educational Choice: National, highly beneficial tool for parents, in
charter schools through-
out the State of Arizona,
State & Local the form of his latest book: The School
AmeriSchools Academy, as a pre-
including AmeriSchools Choice Roadmap.
Academy, and co-founder mier, pioneer charter school in Arizona,
Within this book Campanella pres-
of University High owes its existence to a dedication to the
ents the results of his experience in
School, Tucson Unified empowering idea of school choice. Na-
educational delivery, policy, and advo-
School District. tional School Choice Week, January
cacy. But this experience encompasses
24-30, 2021, will be celebrated on a na-
more than just academic research. He
tional, as well as state and local, level.
actually spent a great deal of his pro-
Governor Doug Ducey, in a recent
fessional time listening to parents and
gubernatorial proclamation, has desig-
students.
nated Arizona School Choice Week to
coincide with the national event.
Arizona, one of the first states to es-
tablish charter schools, is still a leader
in the charter school movement. As
such, our state has been an enthusias-
tic promoter of this annual celebration
Gov. Doug Ducey from its inception in 2011. Since then,
is the 23rd governor of
Arizona’s lead has encouraged other
Arizona, first elected in
states to join, so that in 2021 all 50
2014. Promoting edu-
cational excellence in
states and the District of Columbia are
Arizona is one of his planning some form of commemora-
top priorities. Governor tion of National School Choice Week.
Ducey is a member of the And as is common to education, this
Education Commission of will be implemented on the local level,
the States and past board school by school.
member of the Arizona
State Board for Charter
The Idea of School Choice
Schools. Milton Friedman, Nobel Prize-
winning economist, is often credited
with advocating for the idea of school
choice beginning in the 1950’s. Charter
schools, the natural embodiment of
2
ive Officer’s Notebook
A large part of this listening pro- AmeriSchools is proud to extend
cess was paying attention to the the promotion of National School
experiences of parents who had been Choice Week from the national and Milton Friedman
(1912-2006) was an Amer-
fortunate enough to move their chil- state levels to the local communities
ican economist and Nobel
dren’s enrollment from a school that that we serve. Consistent with the
Prize winner who proposed a
did not work for their child to one message in The School Choice Roadmap system of educational vouch-
that did. Over several years he began and National School Choice Week, ers that would require public,
to document the commonalities in the AmeriSchools’ educational philosophy charter, and other schools
experiences of parents who discovered incorporates a major emphasis upon to compete in a market-like
schools and educational programs that listening to and partnering with our setting. Friedman believed
worked well for their children. parents, which is the theme of the cur- a system of vouchers would
These were schools where the rent issue of AmeriSchools Perspectives. bring choice and the virtues
parents were not only comfortable of the free market to the K-12
with the academics of the school, but AmeriSchools: A Destination educational system.
both the student and parent felt a of Choice
sense of belonging within the greater AmeriSchools continues to take
school-family community. The process advantage of the freedom to inno-
by which these families successfully vate enabled by school choice, as we
upgraded their children’s education, provide the best possible educational
by exercising their choice, is laid out in experience for our students and their
the book as a seven-step process (see families. Current and future members
graphic accompanying this message). of AmeriSchools’ “extended educa-
tional family” literally “have a choice”
when it comes to the education of their
children. AmeriSchools continues to be
appreciative of the choice our parents Andrew Campanella
make by entrusting their children’s ed- president of National School
ucation to us, and judging from their Choice Week, has dedicated
feedback, that feeling of appreciation his career to helping families
discover their K-12 school
is mutual.*
choice options. His book,
****************************************** “The School Choice Road-
A limited number of new families will map,” offers a seven-step
have an opportunity to exercise their process that will help you
harness the power of your
school choice during AmeriSchools’
own intuition—and your
upcoming enrollment period, beginning
own expertise about your
Feb. 1, 2021. (See pp. 22-23 of this issue)
child’s uniqueness—to help
*Our parents’ feedback is presented in you find a school that reflects
the cover story on page 6. your family’s goals, values,
and priorities, so that you
can give your children every
opportunity to succeed in
school and in life.
Dr. Reginald Barr, Chief Executice Officer,
AmeriSchools Academy
3
Charter The Year of School Choice
School News
2020 revealed a public awakening on education
T
he 2020 Republican Convention focused on is-
sues in a way that the Democratic party did not.
Perhaps most striking was the impassioned—
Ohio Governor signs bill and repeated—demand for school choice. No convention
expanding school choice had ever featured speaker after speaker who promoted
choice in human and moral terms.
to low-income students Like the virtual convention format, this owes some-
thing to COVID-19. As parents, teachers, principals and
Legislation to expand Ohio’s school choice students have adapted to the pandemic, too many tradi-
eligibility signed into law on Nov. 27, 2020 tional public schools have been far less nimble in serv-
R
ing students than have charters, private and religious
ecent articles from The Wall Street Journal
schools. Many parents are realizing this won’t change
and other national newspapers reported
as long as funding is tied to buildings and bureaucracies
that Ohio’s Senate Bill 89 will expand the
rather than students.
state’s EdChoice Program, which allows students
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says
to apply for vouchers for private schools if they are
reopening schools is itself a matter of public health
in low-performing schools or low-income districts.
because the harm to keeping children out of the class-
Supporters say this bill provides more opportunities
room is “well-known and significant.” The CDC adds
for students and parents, but opponents say it
that keeping schools closed “disproportionately harms
diverts potential public resources away from public
low-income and minority children and those living
schools and toward private schools.
with disabilities” because their parents lack the resourc-
Under the bill, parents can apply for the vouchers
es to switch to a private school, hire a tutor, or even
if their students are enrolled in schools ranked in
sign up for after-school programs.
the bottom 30% according to the performance index
Rebecca Friedrich, a long-time California public
rankings. It also expands eligibility for all students
school teacher, and author of Standing Up to Goliath,
who are in districts that have 20% or more low-in-
spoke of her battle with unions that force teachers to
come students.
pay dues to finance causes they don’t agree with.
The legislation also increases the income-based
Like other speakers, she zeroed in on the human costs,
voucher program so students are eligible if they are at
noting that the teachers unions spend “hundreds of
250% of the poverty level. Previous law only provid-
millions annually to defeat charter schools and school
ed eligibility to students at 200% of the poverty level.
choice, trapping so many precious, low-income children
Performance-based EdChoice will now focus on
in dangerous, corrupt
the lowest-achieving 20% of schools. Both cham-
and low-performing
bers of the Ohio legislature passed an agreed-upon
schools.”
version of the legislation after adopting compromise
Nothing matters
language through a conference committee.
more to social jus-
tice than educational
opportunity, and too
many public schools
fail to provide it.
“School choice is
the real civil-rights
issue of our time, and
the GOP deserves
credit for making it
a marquee part of its
2020 agenda.”
4
In February 2020, we The Goldwater Institute Fights for
AmeriSchools
Perspectives
announced our Vision
VOLUME ONE NUMBER TWO
WINTER QUARTER 2020 ISSUE
AMERISCHOOLS ACADEMY
for 2020 of opening Parents with Special Needs Children
Introducing and initially funding ESAs have been a boon to children’s education
Our 20/20 —that is, until government has gotten in the way.
Vision for Education Savings Ac-
2020 counts for all students Just ask Kayla Svedin. Arizona’s ESA program
in 3rd to 8th grades. made it possible for her special needs daughter to
The pandemic and attend a school where she got the individualized
school closings forced attention she deserves. Yet across the country,
us to put our plans on ESA programs face strident opposition from anti-
hold, and to address school choice activists. The Goldwater Institute
See inside for details on
our visionary dream of
a college education for more pressing matters. is standing strong on behalf of families and in
every AmeriSchools child
in grades 3 through 8
We hope to accomplish defense of school choice.
In 2019, they stopped the Arizona Department
PAGES 4-5
1
that vision in 2021.
AP_Magazine_#2_2-09-2020-COVER.indd 1 2/10/20 8:12 AM
of Education from undermining a family’s school
choice options. Goldwater attorneys represented
THE GOLDWATER INSTITUTE IS the Walton family, whose special n eeds son bene-
WORKING TO HELP CHILDREN GET fitted from ESAs and who were wrongfully asked
to “repay” thousands of dollars that they spent on
THE EDUCATION THEY DESERVE
T
a language-skills computer program for their son.
he coronavirus upended daily life for all Amer- Thanks to their work, the Department dropped
icans, but the effects have been especially its demands. In January 2020, The Goldwater
challenging for children, as schools across the Institute filed a lawsuit on behalf of several other
country closed their doors. The Goldwater Institute, Arizona ESA families who are also embroiled in
headquartered in Phoenix, knows that greater educa- struggles with the state.
tional freedom can provide the options kids and fam-
ilies need to get through this crisis, and give them the What is The Goldwater Institute?
education that bests fits their needs after this outbreak. The Goldwater Institute is a conservative pub-
lic policy think tank located in Phoenix, Arizona,
Empowering Parents With School Choice whose stated mission is “to defend and strength-
Education Savings Accounts—or ESAs—are one op- en the freedom guaranteed to all Americans in
tion that’s helping thousands of families have choice in the constitutions of the United States and all fifty
education. An idea pioneered at the Goldwater Insti- states.” The organization was established in 1988
tute, ESAs take a portion of what a state would spend with the support of former Senator Barry Gold-
covering the cost of a student’s education in a K-12 water. The Goldwater Institute is a proponent
public school and instead deposit that money into a of increased educational choice through charter
personalized account—money that can be used to pay schools and school vouchers.
for tuition, tutoring, or teaching tools.
Six states currently offer ESAs to selected students, About Barry Goldwater
and the Goldwater Institute is leading the charge to An American politician, businessman, and
expand ESAs across the country. In 2019, Tennessee author who was a five-term Senator from Arizona
followed Goldwater’s lead when it expanded ESAs and the Republican Party
for low-income students in struggling Memphis and nominee for president of
Nashville-area schools. the United States in 1964.
Earlier this year, they helped to pass a law in Arizo- Despite his loss of the
na that gives families of the Navajo Nation the un- 1964 presidential election,
equivocal right to continue their children’s education Goldwater is the politi-
at the school of their choice through the state’s ESA cian most often credited
program. And in Utah, the state adopted an ESA-style with having sparked the
scholarship for children with special needs, just like resurgence of the Ameri-
successful programs in Arizona, Florida, Mississippi, can conservative political
North Carolina, and Tennessee. movement in the 1960s.
5
Parenting Through
a Pandemic
We proudly salute our amazing parents who demonstrate not just
surviving but thriving under unprecedented conditions
“AmeriSchools is like a
big family, and you can
really feel the love they
have for our kids.”
6
6 – Lorena Millan, Yuma
“Every Home is a University, and the Parents
are the Teachers.” – Mahatma Gandhi
The Priorities and Promises
A
of AmeriSchools Parents
s parents, we love, guide, discipline, and hope for the
AmeriSchools
Perspectives
best for our children. This is not a part-time position, VOLUME TWO NUMBER ONE
at least not for the first two decades. Even after our
FALL QUARTER 2020 ISSUE
AMERISCHOOLS ACADEMY
Learning (and Caring)
children “grow up,” they will always be our children, Through a Pandemic:
and we will always be their parents. Through good times and bad, It’s All About “Our Kids” PAGE 6
it is who we are. The 25-Year History
of AmeriSchools PAGE 12
The just concluded year of 2020, the year of COVID-19, will be
The Future of
Education PAGE 16
remembered differently by everyone according to its effect upon
them. But it is a safe bet to assume that no one will classify it as a
typical year. The crisis of the coronavirus is two-fold: (1) the direct
effect of the virus upon thousands (afflicted and family members
of afflicted alike), (2) the indirect effect of the virus through gov- 1
ernmental response, and its ensuing effect upon the public. This
Pair your reading of this
second aspect of the crisis has been especially felt in the area of
issue’s cover story with a
our children’s education. re-reading (or initial reading)
To complement our last issue’s report on the AmeriSchools of our last issue’s cover sto-
response to the pandemic’s effect on education, we now present ry* relating how the Ameri-
the results of a survey of our amazing parents. We gratefully ac- Schools team—teachers and
knowledge the generous contributions of our parents and their staff—kept the main thing
willingness to share a “slice of their lives” from this past year. This the main thing throughout
last year’s pandemic: focus-
revealing and informative feedback is presented through a dual
ing on “our kids.”
lens: (1) the priorities we have for our children’s education, which
in turn are based upon, (2) the promises we make to our children *AmeriSchools Perspectives,
(and ourselves). Fall Quarter, Vol. 2, No.
1, “Learning (and Caring)
Parental Priorities Through a Pandemic: It’s
All About ‘Our Kids’”
Put First Things First
Available for viewing or
Numerous educational priorities were mentioned by AmeriSchools
downloading on our website:
parents: safety for their children, maintaining the learning process,
www.AmeriSchools.org
effective communication with the teachers and school, building social
skills, maintaining support for special needs, keeping grades up, and
the ability to receive support from the school when problems develop.
Data was collected through parental narrative responses—we heard
7
their stories as they told them. This resulted in primarily
qualitative data; we have no colorful charts containing
numeric comparisons to display. In one sense, respons-
es seemed to vary—each family represents a unique
combination of children with educational needs and
the parental championing of those needs.
Parents representing one family in our sur-
vey were concerned with balancing their efforts
between the diverse needs of multiple children
during the pandemic-required virtual learning
experience. Remote support from the school for
their special-needs student was a primary priority
for other parents. Preserving discipline and a regular
daily routine for their children became a major focus
for yet another family.
Without careful consideration, one could think that
the pandemic crisis has generated the seeming chaos and
confusion of these varied and divergent parental priorities. But
upon more careful examination, for many, the only thing that has really
changed is the means of instruction, from face-to-face to virtual or hybrid.
“With AmeriSchools,
The end goals that those means serve have not waivered.
you’re getting the Individual parents will always interpret their children’s educational
‘private school feeling’ needs a bit differently, whether in the midst of a crisis or not. But if you
without the private look beneath these seemingly broad and varied parental priorities a
school costs!” common thread does begin to emerge. We should explore the underly-
– Monica San Ramon, Yuma ing reason that parents have the priorities in the first place: the promises
My oldest daughter started at Amer- they have made.
iSchools in the 6th grade, and went
from being a D student to an A stu-
dent practically overnight. Before that,
Parental Promises
she couldn’t even read. And then she Not Just Made with Words, but Kept with
went on to win the Principal’s Award Action
in high school. She was also the first As parents, we are promise makers to
in our family to go to college. My son our children:
started in kindergarten, and is now • “I’ll always be here for you.”
in 5th grade, and just loving it! • “I’ll protect you.”
• “My job is to take care of you.”
• “Don’t be afraid; I’m here.”
• “I’m your mother/father; I
may not always like what you
do, but I’ll always love you.”
Sometimes these promises are
just spoken, but sometimes they
are demonstrated, with action.
The AmeriSchools parents sur-
8
veyed are not only promise makers, but promise keepers. This
process, keeping promises, begins with setting priorities
(goals) and then following these up with action.
So, what actions have our promise keeping parents
taken; actions necessitated by the expanded parental
role required by the pandemic response? Here are
just a few answers to that question:
• Daily planning and organizing of children’s
academic and non-academic schedule
• Monitoring online student’s scheduling and
activity
• Being a supplemental teacher/tutor for their
children during home online instruction and
while children are engaged in homework sessions
• Ensuring a sense of safety and security for their
children in the face of uncertainty, negative news, and
fearfulness
• Balancing their role as breadwinner for their family with the
extra duties required to maintain their children’s educational
and emotional wellbeing “We’ve had to deal with more
• Helping their children successfully utilize technology re- difficult situations than school
quired by newly implemented modes of instruction being online, so we’re used to
The actions listed above reflect the hightened sense of respon- overcoming challenges.”
sibility these parents have, related to assisting their children in a – Araceli Rocha, Tucson
home learning environment and communicating/advocating for I have two boys, one in kindergarten, and the
their children at a higher level due to the shift to online and hybrid other in 3rd grade. We’ve always focused on
instruction. Also, we should remember that these actions are keeping grades up, and that hasn’t changed
because of the pandemic. I have to explain a
in addition to normal parental duties (providing paren-
little bit more and play the part of the teacher,
tal love and guidance, food, shelter, ensuring health but I get great support from AmeriSchools.
and safety).
While sharing their long list of action “What keeps me motivat-
items necessitated by the past year of pan-
ed and going is my kids and
demic response, the parents surveyed
were unanimous in their praise of
knowing that we have all the
AmeriSchools’ performance through- support that we need from
out the entire pandemic period: how AmeriSchools.”
they communicated with parents, how – Susan White, Tucson
they adapted to the online educational After 30 years at Raytheon, I’m currently
retired and raising my four great-grandchildren
environment, and how they continued
(two at AmeriSchools), after raising six grand
to demonstrate that the AmeriSchools
children and two daughters, and let me tell you,
educational experience took the form of it doesn’t get any easier! The online learning
an “extended educational family.” is difficult, but the kids pick it up fast, and the
entire staff at the school is amazingly helpful.
9
What AmeriSchools Parents Can Teach Us
Passion and Perseverance
These AmeriSchools parents have shown us that when you
decide to be a promise keeper and not just a promise maker
to your children, you are inspired by passion. But keeping
your level of passion consistently high with perseverance—
a recent challenge for many—is the key to successful
promise keeping.
The Huffington Post* wrapped up the year 2020 by
recommending four resolutions to adopt for the legions of
parents who want to revitalize their perseverance muscle:
(1) deep breathing three times per day, (2) increasing the
amount of high-quality time spent with our children, (3)
increasing our daily sleeping/resting time, (4) increasing the
amount of daily time you spend genuinely connecting with
individuals (face-to-face or virtually).
Passion and perseverance, according to University of Pennsyl-
vania professor of psychology, Angela Duckworth,** form the foun-
“I’m with my daughter dation of grit, that powerful quality of the truly successful—even
more important than knowledge and intelligence. Duckworth be-
when she’s online, and hear
lieves that gritty parents raise gritty kids, not through what is said,
what the teacher is saying, but through the example of who they are.
and she just loves what “The slice of life” generously shared by many of our Ameri-
they do. You can tell that Schools parents tells an important story, not of the year that was, but
they just love being teach- of the people who are. Change happens, events occur, but we do a
ers, and that they love you. disservice to ourselves if we focus only on the uncontrollable versus
It’s not a job to them, you the response, action, and progress manifested by the people—par-
can just feel the passion!” ents, teachers, staff, and students—engaged in the process of our
children’s education. This partnership of people, to quote many of
– Heather Bolin, Yuma South
My daughter is eight years old and in
the AmeriSchools parents surveyed, is their educational family.
2nd grade at AmeriSchools. My hope is As the ongoing pandemic demonstrates, sadness, grief, loss,
that in the long run they end up extend- and struggle are not always unavoidable. However, these chal-
ing the grades past 6th grade because lenges to the human spirit can be springboards to a rededication
I would just love for her to continue and refocusing of our efforts to live truly good human lives, as
going to AmeriSchools. To me, there is no individuals and parents. As the results of our AmeriSchools parent
other school that is as good. There is no
survey reveal, we can overcome hardship, especially for our chil-
better feeling knowing that your child
is safe, and that they are going to take
dren’s sake. We must take inspiration from the examples shared
care of your child. It’s just an awesome by our amazing parents who demonstrate not just surviving but
experience! I just love them! thriving under unprecedented conditions. By following their lead,
we can make 2021 a year of renewed dedication to the purpose for
which our families operate, for the benefit of our most valuable
and precious resource: our kids. ❤
*Huffington Post, “2020 Was Relentless for Parents. In 2021, It’s Time to Put Ourselves
First.” huffpost.com, Catherine Pearson, 12/30/2020 05:45am EST
**Duckworth, Angela. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. United States: Scribner, 2016.
10AmeriSchools Parenting Success Formula
PASSION + PERSEVERANCE = GRIT
Promise Making Promise Keeping Sustained Success
• Focus on Your • Take Regular Enlist Assistance to
Children’s Success Action Toward Their Maintain Consistency
• Set Priorities for Success 1. Huffington Post*
Their Success Article Tips
2. Help from School
Four Steps (That You Can Control) for
Maintaining Parenting Effectiveness*
1. 2. 3. 4.
Deep Breathing: Increased High- Increased Sleep Increased
3 minutes, Quality Time Time Connection with
3 times per day with Kids Others
(Face-to-Face or Virtually)
*Huffington Post, “2020 Was Relentless for Parents. In 2021, It’s Time to Put Ourselves First.” huffpost.com, Catherine Pearson, 12/30/2020
11Why I
An interview with parent
To Parent
them since kinder, a few were even me) and I remind them it is their
(and teacher) Moani Kanae in the PreK with them so they have choice, but whatever they choose,
I was born and raised in Hawai’i. grown up together. The teachers I will support them and help them
Learning was always a priority in and staff have always been sup- attain their goals. For example, my
our family growing up, along with portive of what the kids do and daughter has wanted to be a doctor
sports. We moved to Arizona when I cheering them on. from the time she was three, so our
was in the 7th grade and I graduated conversations are about what type
AP: What areas could AmeriSchools
High School here before attending the of schooling she will need and mak-
improve upon related to the education
University of Arizona. I am current- ing sure she is studying hard in her
of your children?
ly pursuing my Masters in Reading, math and science courses. Some-
Language and Culture at the UofA. Moani: Honestly, I love what times those conversations with my
I am a mom to three beautiful kiddos. AmeriSchools does, but what I feel children go to “Do I need to go to
In my “free time” (as a single mom they could improve is the access to college mommy?” to
what is this?) you can find me reading, technology and technology classes which I respond that
running, or riding my bike around our that teach students about typing they don’t, but
fair city. and basic computer skills in lower they do need to
elementary. contribute to
General Questions
Parental Philosophy and society, and
AmeriSchools Perspectives (AP): Priorities for Your Children that I will sup-
How long have your children been port them.
students at AmeriSchools? AP: Please describe the goals you have
for your child related to their education AP: What do
Moani: My children have been and their future? you tell your
attending AmeriSchools since they children to
were three, my oldest was in our Moani: My goal for my children in
motivate
first PreK class. So she has been regards to their education is that
them to
with AmeriSchools for six years, they feel successful in whatever
keep up
my oldest son five years, and the they do. I want them to get great
with
three year old just started school grades, but how they feel about
their
in October. their education is far more im-
school-
portant to me. I want them to love
AP: How many children do you have work
learning and coming to school. For
(have you had) within the Ameri- and
their future, I’d like them to attend
Schools system? other
university, but I know that’s not for
im-
Moani: I have three kids in the everyone. I want my children to
port-
AmeriSchools system. But my know they are supported in what-
ant
niece attended AmeriSchools back ever route they take in their future
respon-
in 2006-2008, and that is how I got as long as they are contributors to
sibili-
involved with the school. society in a positive manner.
ties?
AP: What are the positives of your AP: How do you see your role in your
children’s experience with Ameri- children attaining these goals?
Schools? Moani: My role in helping my
Moani: The positives of my chil- children attain these goals is to
dren’s experiences at AmeriSchools make sure they know how sup-
have been the family atmosphere ported they are by me. We often
and the small class sizes. Most of have conversations about their
my kid’s classmates have been with future (prompted by them, not
12
12Moani: My kids have always been Pandemic Challenges it took a toll on them because
self-motivated in school and their AP: What specific challenges has your they are very social kids and love
responsibilities. I do tell them they family faced due to the pandemic? being with their friends and school
don’t have to be the best and they Moani: Our biggest challenge was community. It was very sad to hear
won’t always get everything right, juggling my teaching with help- my kids, who have always loved
but they always need to try their ing to facilitate their education school, cry about how they don’t
best so they can be proud of them- when we are at home, along with a like school anymore because it isn’t
selves in the end. three year old who wants to be in as fun as being in person. It has
everyone’s meeting. The older two forced them to be more aware of
really struggled with feeling lonely their schedules as I am also teach-
and missing their friends. ing during this time. They have
gotten on meetings on their own
AP: How has this affected your chil- and really taken ownership of their
dren’s education? learning day to day.
Moani: This has affected their AP: What specific strategies have you
education in that they have slowed used to help your children during this
down and aren’t always trying to period?
rush through everything they do.
But I know the social aspect Moani: Back in March it was
of their education is the one not pretty, they were both in my
most affected as a lot of their room with lap desks, all three of
interactions with classmates us working in the same space. It
have been online. made it difficult on all three of us.
Since then, I have set up their own
AP: How has your role as a learning stations in their rooms
parent changed during the pan- and we go over their schedules
demic? each morning, and I am often pop-
Moani: My role as a parent ping in their rooms checking on
hasn’t changed much as their progress with assignments. I
I have always been do put their mental health first. If
one of their teach- they are not having a good mental
ers. It has made health day because of how taxing
me appreciate the this all is on them, I let their teach-
lower elementary ers know and they get to just play.
teachers and their It has really helped to keep them
patience a whole lot doing well in school.
more. I have really AP: What have you learned about
enjoyed seeing first your role as a parent and/or about
hand the learning and your children after having experi-
ah-ha moments with enced the past year?
my kids and their joy
for their learning. Moani: I have learned how resil-
ient kids are. This global pandem-
AP: How have your ic was thrown at them and in an
children’s attitudes and instant their educational journeys
educational performance changed so drastically, but they
been affected by the pan- have risen to the occasion and
demic? pushed through. It hasn’t always
Moani: They have been rainbows and butterflies, but
always been self-moti- they have learned so much about
vated, but in the begin- themselves and what they are
ning of online learning capable of. ❤
13A Principal-ed Leader
From Parent to Volunteer to Teacher to Principal
n, “Coach Joe”
Linda, with her so
a McCormack’s
Principal Lind ine
m er iS ch oo ls Academy Timel
A
titute
Long-Term Subs e
2001–2006 g college part-tim
Began attendin
ion Aide
Special Educat single
2006–2010 co lle ge student as a
Full-Time ; ha d a gr eat
o so ns
parent with tw rm udez,
with Mrs. Be
support system To w ne r, and
rr, Carol
Dr. Reginald Ba
er
mother and fath
ls
r at AmeriSchoo
Student Teache
2010–2011 elor’s degree in
Completed bach
ed uc ation
elementary
acher
Fourth-Level Te
2011–2014 et ed fir st master’s degree
Compl
ial
acher and Spec
Fourth-Level Te
2014–2016 ctor
Education Instru
se co nd master’s degree
Completed s and
aged by parent
in 2016; encour va ilable
r the newly-a
staff to apply fo a No rt h
n at Yum
principal positio
ma North
Principal of Yu
2016–2018
Yuma No rth
Principal of both
2018–Present
and South
1414A
A Profile of Linda McCormack, AmeriSchools Academy Principal, Yuma North & South
s the saying goes, Transferring Motivation impact the school has on families
“leaders aren’t born, to Students and students. Building the charac-
they’re made.” But The first principle of effective ter, confidence, and compassion of
where does the “raw teaching, according to Principal young men and women, as well as
material,” the future McCormack, is to understand providing them with a solid base
leader, come from? In the case of that everyone learns in a different of learning for the next levels of
Linda McCormack, the Principal manner and at a different pace. their education, provides immea-
of AmeriSchools Yuma North and Instruction needs to be molded to surable rewards to staff and stu-
South campuses, she was “hiding reach all the students by keeping dent alike. As an example, many of
in plain sight,” as a parent of two them engaged and learning. the students and parents return to
AmeriSchools students. Another key is to make the the school, years after leaving, just
Ms. McCormack’s story is one learning experience fun, as well to visit or sometimes get help with
example of what a parent can do— as challenging. Ms. McCormack academics or other challenging sit-
not just for their own children, but strongly believes that the most uations that they find themselves
for a much larger group of chil- important principle is for students in. This strongly suggests that the
dren, and families—given the right to know that the teacher genuinely ultimate principle may just be the
circumstances, internal motivation, cares about them and wants them valuable, ongoing relationships
and effort. We will briefly examine to succeed. forged between McCormack and
her AmeriSchools career through her team, and the students and
the principles of (1) motivation (of
Recent Pandemic families they have the privilege to
self and others), (2) overcoming
Challenges serve. ❤
The biggest challenge during the
challenges, and (3) gratitude.
pandemic, relates McCormack, has Brief Biography:
After a Short Time, been ensuring that our students Linda McCormack was born in New
She Was Hooked and families have everything they York and lived in Florida and Rhode
In 2001 Ms. McCormack was need to be safe, continue learning, Island before settling in Yuma, Ari-
a parent and volunteer at Amer- and maintain emotional security. zona. Her two sons attended Amer-
iSchools when the Yuma North Meeting this challenge for Ameri- iSchools, with her youngest, Coach
principal, Dea Bermudez, offered Schools families included provid- Joe, still a member of the Ameri-
her a job as a long-term substitute ing a broad array of equipment and
Schools family. She has a grandson
teacher for a K-1 class. The expe- support ranging from computers to and will soon have a granddaughter.
rience of watching the students toilet paper. Principal McCormack Her family is also blessed with two
learn and grow, academically and reports that the initial remote and
dogs, Allie and Bruno. When she is
emotionally, was so rewarding now remote/in-class learning has not busy leading the Yuma campus-
that, after a short time, she was been a challenge for the teachers, es, she enjoys community plays, the
hooked. parents, and students, but Ameri- Yuma Orchestra, reading, and jigsaw
McCormack was able to remain Schools has managed to continue
puzzles. A love of horses also fuels Ms.
with the same group of students providing high levels of academic McCormack’s volunteering at Saddles
for the next few years as they and instructional support. of Joy, a therapeutic riding program.
moved up through the grade lev- Under her direction, Yuma staff
els. Described by Ms. McCormack have made the best out of a chal- Favorite Quotes:
as “a life-changing event,” this lenging situation. This included “Ask ‘How will
experience enriched and rewarded learning to use new technology they learn best?’
her beyond her imagination. When and new ways to engage the not ‘Can they
you invest, not just effort, but a learn?’.”
students in a virtual learning envi-
part of yourself into a noble cause, ronment. – Jaime Escalante
motivation is never a lacking. “Tell me and I for-
After more than a decade, she A Gratifying Career get. Teach me and I
is still in contact with many of the Principal McCormack believes remember. Involve
students and parents from that the most gratifying aspect of her me and I learn.”
first class. work with AmeriSchools to be the – Ben Franklin
15The Future of
Education
Will Augmented Reality and
Virtual Reality be the next leap forward?
PART TWO OF A SERIES
16It doesn’t take a Ph.D. in education to understand that schooling
may never again be quite what it was. There’s no doubt that the
future of education will be transformed—but how exactly?
I
n our last issue we discussed the Augmented Reality (AR)
great challenges and changes that Potential to advance student engagement
the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic AR is an interactive experience of a
would likely bring about in edu- real-world environment where the objects
cation. It’s probable that schooling will that reside in the real world are enhanced
change significantly in the long-term. by computer-generated perceptual infor-
We outlined the roles that Artifical Intel- mation. The primary value of augmented
ligence and Robotics could possibly play reality is the manner in which components
in the immediate future, and gave a few of the digital world blend into a person’s
examples of what is currently being tested perception of the real world, not as a
in classrooms and laboratories around the simple display of data, but through the
world. In this issue we explore two more integration of immersive sensations, which
areas that show potential for use in class- are perceived as natural parts of an envi-
rooms and other training centers: Aug- ronment.
mented Reality and Virtual Reality. Victoria S. of RubyGarage, says, “Using
The COVID-19 pandemic has upend- augmented reality in the classroom can
ed school systems around the world. The turn an ordinary class into an engaging
pace has been frenetic as systems have had experience. AR technology provides virtual “Using augmented
to implement remote learning overnight, examples and adds gaming elements to reality in the class-
plan whether and how to reopen schools support textbook materials. As a result,
room can turn an
amid changing epidemiological circum- classes become more interactive. AR helps
stances, and support students academi- students better remember the information ordinary class into
cally and emotionally. The scope of the they’ve just learned. Let’s review a few ex- an engaging expe-
challenge has thus far left little time for amples of augmented reality in classroom rience.”
deeper reflection. education.
Yet crises often create an opportuni-
ty for broader change, and as education HISTORY AND SCIENCE. Google Expe-
systems begin to make decisions about ditions provides AR tours that let teachers
investments for the new school year, it’s use augmented reality in education. With
important to step back and consider the AR technology and mobile devices, users
longer-term imperative to create a better can bring 3D objects into the classroom,
system for every child beyond the pan- then walk around and explore them. These
demic. can be tornados, volcanos, or even DNA.
While we mustn’t lose sight of what we Google Expeditions covers various subjects
have learned through decades of research and offers more than 100 AR Expeditions
and education reform, the COVID-19 through the circulatory system, history of
pandemic is driving educators to acceler- technology, and the moon landing.
ate new models of learning and innovate CHEMISTRY. Elements 4D uses AR to
beyond the classroom. Lockdowns forced make chemistry more fun and engaging.
students around the world to learn from First, users need to make paper cubes from
home, resulting in a dramatic increase in special element blocks. Then, they just
the use of online tools, such as videocon- need to place the cubes in front of their
ferencing, learning-management plat- device’s camera to see representations of
forms, and assessment tools. chemical elements, their names, and their
17atomic weights. To explore elements, Virtual Reality (VR)
students can bring together two cubes to Students can experience the world
find out if elements react and to see the without leaving the room
chemical reaction. Virtual Reality is defined as a com-
puter-generated simulation in which a
PALEONTOLOGY. Dinosaur 4D+ is an person can interact within an artificial
AR app and a set of flashcards. Users can three-dimensional environment using
scan flashcards to see 3D dinosaurs. With special electronic devices, such as special
Dinosaur 4D+, students can see dino- goggles with a screen or gloves fitted
saurs in action, rotate them, and zoom in with sensors.
and out. The app also gives some infor- In the real world of education, VR can
mation about each dinosaur.” bring subject matter to life with virtual
“A famous Chinese proverb says: experiences, from traveling to distant
‘Tell me and I forget. Show me and I re- lands, to taking a look inside a human
member. Involve me and I understand.’ brain to learn chemistry.
Practice by doing is considered one of In an article by Nick Babich of Adobe,
the most effective methods of learning, he shares that in the era of digital devices,
as it moves information from short-term we have an opportunity to enable better
to long-term memory. Augmented reality learning with technology, and that VR
can help make classes more interactive seems to be the natural next step for the
and allow learners to focus more on evolution of education.
“Community
practice instead of just theory. As AR He points out that VR can increase fact
as Laboratory,” adds virtual objects to the real world, it retention. “Teaching methods are focused
a unique Ameri- lets students train skills using physical on providing facts; however, having
Schools field trip devices. So instead of just reading books access to and consuming a lot of informa-
program, can now or listening to lectures, students and tion isn’t learning. Being informed isn’t
be reinstated as trainees can actually start practicing with the same as being educated.”
a Virtual Reality the help of headsets and goggles. This Nick adds that VR can help people
increases engagement and improves the who have difficulties comprehending
experience!
learning experience.” information.
“Too much information received in
The Grand Canyon, Catalina Island, and BioSphere 2, a short period of time can easily over-
were favorite destinations for AmeriSchools students whelm students. As a result, they become
on “Community as Laboratory” field trips. bored, disengaged, and usually not sure
why they are learning about a topic in the
first place.”
“Virtual reality can be used to enhance
student learning and engagement. VR
education can transform the way educa-
tional content is delivered; it works on the
premise of creating a virtual world—real
or imagined—and allows users not only
to see it but also interact with it. Being im-
mersed in what you’re learning motivates
you to fully understand it. It’ll require
less cognitive load to process the informa-
tion,” says Nick.
“When students read about something,
they often want to experience it. With VR,
they aren’t limited to word descriptions
or book illustrations; they can explore the
topic and see how things are put together.
18Thanks to the feeling of presence that multi-sensory learning trumps other “No matter how the
VR provides, students can learn about forms—even if we do that learning in VR. future of education
a subject by living it. It’s easy to forget This means the technology allows us to
evolves, new technol-
that VR experiences aren’t real—a body create an infinite variety of immersive,
actually believes it’s in a new place. This high-quality teaching environments. ogies won’t replace
feeling engages the mind in a way that is outstanding
remarkable.” Now what? teachers.”
“Virtual reality in education is on the Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Re-
horizon, and without a doubt, it’ll change ality, Robotics and Virtual Reality are just
the world as we know it. Twenty-first cen- some examples of technologies that could
tury classrooms will be technologically forever be part of the reimagining of what
advanced places of learning, with VR tech- education will be like in the future, and
nology significantly increasing students’ represent just a glimpse of the possibilities.
engagement and learning. VR experiences Innovative technologies in education
will inspire a whole new generation of are growing, and the capabilities,
young and bright students, ready to inno- they can ultimately provide to
vate and change the world. students are endless. As they continue to
At the same time, the next big thing in move forward, schooling could potentially
education no longer relies on technology, benefit from the opportunities provided by
but rather on a teacher’s decision to push these advancements. It’s important to keep
forward and adopt these technologies in mind, however, that no matter how the
inside the classroom. The global goal future of education evolves, new technolo-
should be to make knowledge available, gies won’t replace outstanding educators.
accessible, and affordable for everyone on As many will attest, a single teacher can
the planet.” change a student’s path in life. ❤
Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler’s
book, The Future is Faster Than You Think,
provides compelling content regarding Using Virtual Reality, exploring the entire world
converging technologies such as VR. outside our classrooms is now a reality.
The authors take us into the future, into
a history class in 2030. This week’s lesson:
Ancient Egypt with the pharaohs, the
queens, the tombs—the full Tut.
Sure, you’d love to see the pyramids
in person. But the cost of airfare? Hotel
rooms for the entire class? Taking two
weeks off from school for the trip? None
of these things are feasible. Yet, even if you
could go, you couldn’t go. Many of Egypt’s
tombs are closed for repairs, and definitely
off-limits to a group of teenagers. Not to
worry, VR solves these problems.
The book, “The Future is Faster
The classroom full of kids have HTC
Than You Think,”provides com-
Vive VR headsets. Because High Fidelity pelling content regarding converg-
is a social platform, meaning multiple ing technologies such as VR.
people can share the same virtual space
at the same time, the entire class was able
to explore that tomb together. In total, for Don’t miss PART THREE of
their fully immersive field trip to Egypt: this exciting series coming in
zero travel time, zero travel expense. the Spring 2021 Issue of
This was a rich learning experience for AmeriSchools Perspectives
the kids who took the trip. Research shows
19Financial Literacy for Kids By Ken Osborn and Joshua Osborn. A father and son Investment Advisor
duo based in Southern California. Ken has been in the industry for over thirty
years, and his son has been his mentee for the last three years. Ken instilled
the wisdom of sound financial management in his son from a young age,
helping him to develop smart monetary practices in his young adult years.
The two of them work side by side in the stock market, analyzing companies
I
to help suggest the proper entities for investment with their clients.
f you are like most parents in America, the
thought of helping your child grow finan- 1. Concept of ‘Earning’
cially is one of great importance. However, Give your children a weekly allow-
many adults are not sure when to start ance as pocket money. A fixed
teaching their children about money. I would say amount of money on a regular
the sooner the better! It is common knowledge basis will teach them to
that kids are better at learning and retaining manage the limited amount
information the younger they are. It is for this carefully. Ask them to do
reason that teaching a child the importance of chores in exchange, thereby
earning, saving, and spending is paramount in teaching the value of earning.
their developmental years. Lessons learned in as
early as kindergarten can be fundamental skills
that can be honed over a lifetime.
2. Concept of ‘Saving’
Another tried and true method of teaching Make an occasional trip to the bank with your
a child the value of money is to offer them an children and talk to them about what a
allowance. A beneficial twist, to this method, is bank does. Give them a savings jar or
to make a ‘chore checklist’ that must be accom- a piggy bank to practice saving. Offer
plished every week for them to redeem their them a small amount of money at the
allowance. This will help the child in the long end of each month. This could be an
introduction to the concept of investing and
run to recognize the basics of wages and how
the return one earns from investing.
work equals pay. At the end of the week, if they
have done their chores, reward your child with
a trip to their favorite store, allowing them to 3. Concept of ‘Spending’
do the shopping. If they spot a toy they cannot
quite afford, use that moment to teach them the Allow your children to spend a
percentage of their allowance.
importance of saving, and as they grow, increase
Encourage them to contribute
the amount you encourage them to save. Over
some money for the family treat;
the years, your child will quickly develop a keen
for example, ice cream or
sense for money management and develop a
chocolates after dinner. They
strong will in controlling their finances. Many
can even buy their own toys.
adults today struggle with impulse buying.
With beneficial money practices from a young
age, your child will be better equipped to curb
these impulses, setting them up for a more 4. Concept of ‘Sharing’
stable financial future.
There is no better time to start helping your Inspire your children to save a portion
of their pocket money and donate it
child prepare to handle their finances and master
to a charity. For example, they could
the basics of money management. With just a
use the money to buy a clothing
little effort, a little patience, and a lot of love, you
item or food for a person in need.
can ensure your child grows to recognize the
That way they will learn to be
importance of earning, saving, and spending. H considerate and empathetic.
Investment Advisory Services offered through Cornerstone Securities, LLC.Streetwise
Investments and Cornerstone Securities, LLC are separate and unrelated companies.
20AmeriSchools Perspectivas en español
Estimados padres de Ameri-
Schools,
Hay sabiduría antigua que nos recu-
erda que “tomamos nuestras decisiones
y nuestras decisiones luego nos hacen”.
Como padres, a los que se les ha con-
fiado la consiguiente responsabilidad,
podemos apreciar los recursos y las
organizaciones que pueden ayudarnos
a elegir sabiamente para nuestros hijos.
Con esto en mente, AmeriSchools se
enorgullece de, una vez más, participar
en la celebración de la Semana Nacio-
nal de elección escolar.
Opción Educativa: Nacional,
Estado & Local
AmeriSchools Academy, como una
escuela charter pionera en Arizona,
Organización Nacional de la Semana educación de sus hijos, mediante el
debe su existencia a una dedicación a
Elección Escolar, la organización sin ejercicio de su elección se establece en
la idea empoderadora de la elección es-
fines de lucro del mismo nombre que el libro como un proceso de siete pasos
colar. La Semana Nacional de Elección
patrocina el evento anual. (véase el gráfico que acompaña a este
Escolar, del 24 al 30 de enero de 2021,
En 2020, Campanella transcribió mensaje).
se celebrará a nivel nacional, así como
y puso a disposición las ideas subya- AmeriSchools se enorgullece de ex-
estatal y local. El gobernador Doug
centes al evento de una semana de tender la promoción de la Semana Na-
Ducey, en una reciente proclamación
duración, como una herramienta muy cional de Elección Escolar de los niveles
para gobernador, ha designado la Ar-
beneficiosa para los padres, en la forma nacional y estatal a las comunidades
izona School Choice Week para coin-
de su último libro: The School Choice locales a las que servimos. De acuerdo
cidir con el evento nacional.
Roadmap. con el mensaje de La hoja de ruta de
Arizona, uno de los primeros es-
Dentro de este libro Campanella la elección escolar y la Semana Na-
tados en establecer escuelas chárter,
presenta los resultados de su experien- cional de Elección Escolar, la filosofía
sigue siendo un líder en el movimiento
cia en la entrega educativa, la política educativa de AmeriSchools incorpora
de escuelas chárter. Como tal, nuestro
y la promoción. Pero esta experiencia un énfasis importante en escuchar y
estado ha sido un entusiasta promo-
abarca algo más que la investigación asociarse con nuestros padres, que es el
tor de esta celebración anual desde su
académica. De hecho, pasó gran parte tema del número actual de Perspectivas
creación en 2011. Desde entonces, el
de su tiempo profesional escuchando a de AmeriSchools.
líder de Arizona ha alentado a otros
padres y estudiantes. AmeriSchools: Un destino de elección
estados a unirse, de modo que en 2021
Una gran parte de este proceso de AmeriSchools continúa
los 50 estados y el Distrito de Columbia
escucha fue prestar atención a las ex- aprovechando la libertad de innovar
están planeando algún tipo de con-
periencias de los padres que habían habilitado por la elección escolar, ya
memoración de la Semana Nacional de
tenido la suerte de trasladar la inscrip- que proporcionamos la mejor experi-
Elección Escolar. Y como es común a la
ción de sus hijos de una escuela que no encia educativa posible para nuestros
educación, esto se implementará a nivel
trabajaba para su hijo a una que lo hizo. estudiantes y sus familias. Los miem-
local, escuela por escuela.
A lo largo de varios años comenzó a bros actuales y futuros de la “familia
La idea de la elección escolar documentar los puntos en común en educativa extendida” de AmeriSchools
Milton Friedman, economista ga- las experiencias de aquellos padres lo literalmente “tienen una opción”
nador del Premio Nobel, a menudo suficientemente afortunados como para cuando se trata de la educación de sus
se le atribuye la defensa de la idea de descubrir escuelas y programas educa- hijos. AmeriSchools sigue apreciando
la elección de la escuela a partir de la tivos que funcionaban para sus hijos. la elección que nuestros padres hacen
década de 1950. Las escuelas chárter, Estas eran escuelas donde los pa- encomendándonos la educación de sus
la encarnación natural de esta idea, dres no sólo se sentían cómodos con hijos, y a juzgar por sus comentarios,
se establecieron por primera vez en la los académicos de la escuela, sino que ese sentimiento de aprecio es mutuo.
década de 1990, incluyendo Ameri- tanto el estudiante como los padres
Schools en 1996. La Semana Nacional sentían un sentido de pertenencia
de Elección Escolar, iniciada en 2011, dentro de la comunidad mayor escue-
está dirigida por Andrew Campanella, la-familia. El proceso mediante el cual Dr. Reginald E. Barr,
fundador y actual Presidente de la estas familias mejoraron con éxito la CEO, AmeriSchools Academy
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