Tuesday, May 16, 2023

FATHER KNOWS BEST: GEORGE WASHINGTON'S RULES OF CIVILITY

 

FATHER KNOWS BEST: GEORGE WASHINGTON'S RULES OF CIVILITY

Are you tired of being a regular Joe or Jane in today's society? Do you want to stand out and be remembered for your manners and etiquette? Well, look no further than the one and only George Washington, the first president of the United States and a master of civility.

Yes, you heard that right. George Washington was not only a brilliant leader and a brave soldier, but he was also a gentleman who followed a set of 110 rules that he called "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation." And let me tell you, some of these rules are so outdated and hilarious that they will make you wonder how Washington ever managed to follow them.

But fear not, my fellow modern citizens. We can still learn a thing or two from good ol' George. Let's take a look at some of his rules and see how we can apply them to our modern society.

Rule 1: Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present.

This rule is still important today. We should always be respectful to the people we meet, even if we don't know them very well. But let's take it a step further and show them some love. Give them a high-five, a fist bump, or even a dab. Make them feel welcome and appreciated in a way that speaks to our modern culture.

Rule 2: When you Speak to one, turn your Eyes on him, as well as your Face.

In today's world of constant distractions, this rule is harder to follow. It's tempting to check our phones or look around when we are talking to someone. But let's try to resist that urge and give them our full attention. Let's look them in the eye and show them that we care about what they are saying. And if we do need to check our phone, let's be honest and say, "Sorry, I just got a notification. Let me check this real quick and then I'm all yours."

Rule 3: Be not forward, but friendly and courteous; the first to salute, hear and answer, & be not pensive when it's a time to converse.

This rule encourages us to be friendly and polite. Let's take it up a notch and be the life of the party. Let's be the first to start a dance party, the first to tell a joke, and the first to offer a round of shots. Let's show people that we are fun and outgoing and not afraid to let loose.

Rule 4: In the Company of others, put not your Hands to any Part of your Body, not usually discovered.

This rule is about body language. Let's try to be aware of our body language and avoid any gestures that might make us look nervous or uncomfortable. But let's also remember that body language can be a powerful tool. Let's use it to our advantage. Let's strike a pose, do a little dance, or even a dab to show people that we are confident and in charge.

Rule 5: Be no Talker, but a good Hearer; and rather ask Questions, than make assertions.

This rule encourages us to be good listeners. Let's take it to the next level and be great listeners. Let's ask questions, show interest, and really try to understand what the other person is saying. And if we do have something to say, let's say it with a meme or a GIF that perfectly captures our thoughts.

Rule 6: Speak not in yawning, but put your handkerchief or hand before your face and turn aside.

Let's be real, nobody wants to see us yawn. But if we do feel a yawn coming on, let's do it in style. Let's put on a fake mustache or a pair of sunglasses and yawn like a boss. And if we see someone else yawning, let's join in and make it a group activity.

Rule 7: When you cough, sneeze, sigh, or laugh, do it not loud, but privately; and speak not in your yawning, but put your handkerchief or hand before your face and turn aside.

This rule is similar to the previous one. Let's try to be courteous and considerate of others when we are experiencing bodily functions. But let's also remember that laughter is contagious. Let's laugh loud and proud, and spread some happiness in the world.

Rule 8: When you eat, be not greedy, neither lick your Fingers, nor talk with your Mouth full; cut your Meat with a Knife, and not with your Fingers.

This rule is a reminder to be polite and considerate when we are eating. Let's try to avoid making a mess, and let's not talk with our mouths full. But let's also remember that food is meant to be enjoyed. Let's savor every bite, and let's not be afraid to lick our fingers or even use our hands if the situation calls for it. And if we do make a mess, let's clean it up with a meme or a funny comment.

Rule 9: Be neat and cleanly in your Dress; Apparel; and Furniture; but not foppish.

Let's try to look our best, whether it's in our dress, our appearance, or even our furniture. But let's also remember that it's not just about how we look, it's about how we feel. Let's be comfortable in our own skin, and let's not be afraid to show off our unique style. And if someone else is rocking a bold outfit or a funky piece of furniture, let's give them a shoutout and some love.

In conclusion, George Washington may have lived in a different time, but his rules of civility still hold some value in our modern society. Let's take his advice and be respectful, courteous, and considerate of others. But let's also have some fun and show off our unique personalities. Who knows, maybe one day we'll be known as the George Washingtons of our time.

The Rules of Civility · George Washington's Mount Vernon https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/rules-of-civility/


110 rules of Civility & Decent Behavior | Classical ConversationsClassical Conversations https://classicalconversations.com/blog/110-rules-of-civility-decent-behavior/


DIANE RAVITCH: SAVE PUBLIC EDUCATION, LET IT BE


DIANE RAVITCH: SAVE PUBLIC EDUCATION, LET IT BE

Sung to the tune of the great Beatles classic, Let It Be


When I find myself in times of trouble

Diane Ravitch comes to me

Speaking words of wisdom

Save public ed


And in my hour of darkness

She is standing right in front of me

Speaking words of wisdom

Save public ed


Save public ed, save public ed

Save public ed, save public ed

Whisper words of wisdom

Save public ed


And when the corporate reformers

Living in their world of greed

There will be an answer

Save public ed


For though they may be powerful

There is still a chance that they will see

There will be an answer

Save public ed


Save public ed, save public ed

Save public ed, save public ed

There will be an answer

Save public ed


Save public ed, save public ed

Save public ed, save public ed

Whisper words of wisdom

Save public ed


And when the night is cloudy

There is still a light that shines on me

Shinin' until tomorrow

Save public ed


I wake up to the sound of music

Diane Ravitch comes to me

Speaking words of wisdom

Save public ed


And save public ed, save public ed

Save public ed, save public ed

Whisper words of wisdom

Save public ed


And save public ed, save public ed

Save public ed, save public ed

Whisper words of wisdom

Save public ed


WHO KNEW: COMMON CORE IS A MAGA CORE VALUE

 

WHO KNEW: COMMON CORE IS A MAGA CORE VALUE

Education is the key to success, but what if the key is being handed over to the wrong hands? That seems to be the case with Hillsdale College and American Classical Education (ACE), two institutions that are promoting MAGA policies and ending public schools. Who knew that Common Core is a MAGA core value?

Hillsdale College, a private liberal arts college in Michigan, is known for its conservative political views. In fact, its president, Larry Arnn, is a close advisor to former President Donald Trump. Arnn has been a vocal critic of public education, claiming that it is "failing" and "indoctrinating" students with "left-wing ideology." Well, we can't have that, can we? We need to make sure our children are indoctrinated with the right-wing ideology instead.

But that's not all. ACE, a charter school group affiliated with Hillsdale College, has also been accused of promoting right-wing policies and ideologies. In 2019, it was revealed that ACE had received funding from the Koch brothers, a wealthy conservative family known for their support of school choice and charter schools. Because who needs public education when you can have private schools that promote your own agenda?

And if that's not enough to make you raise an eyebrow, ACE schools have also been using a curriculum that includes lessons on the "Great Replacement Theory," a white supremacist conspiracy theory that claims white people are being replaced by non-white people. I mean, why teach actual facts and evidence-based theories when you can teach conspiracy theories instead?

All of these ties to right-wing groups and ideologies have raised concerns about the future of public education. Critics worry that these groups are trying to undermine public education and replace it with a system of private schools that promote their own agenda. But hey, at least they're transparent about their lack of transparency.

The rise of Hillsdale College and ACE is part of a larger trend of conservative groups working to undermine public education. These groups are motivated by a desire to promote their own agenda and reduce the role of government in education. Because who needs a government that promotes education for all when you can have a government that only promotes education for those who can afford it?

But it's not just the ideological agenda that's concerning. The lack of transparency from both Hillsdale College and ACE is equally alarming. ACE has refused to release information about its finances and curriculum, making it difficult to assess the impact of ACE schools on students and public education as a whole. Because who needs accountability when you can just trust that they're doing what's best for your child?

It's time to take a step back and ask ourselves: what kind of education system do we want for our children? Do we want a system that promotes a narrow ideological agenda and lacks transparency? Or do we want a system that provides a quality education for all students, regardless of their background or ability to pay? Because let's face it, the only thing worse than an uneducated populace is an uneducated populace with an agenda.

As the saying goes, "the pen is mightier than the sword." So let's use our pens (or keyboards) to advocate for a better education system, one that puts the needs of students and society first. Let's not hand over the key to education to those who are more interested in promoting their own agenda than in providing a quality education for all. Because at the end of the day, the only thing that should matter in education is the education itself, not the political agenda behind it.

Hillsdale applications hint at links between charter school and Common Core – Tennessee Lookout https://tennesseelookout.com/2023/05/16/hillsdale-applications-hint-at-links-between-charter-school-and-common-core/

YO DOG, AI GONNA HELP ME ACE MY EXAMS FO SHIZZLE

 

YO DOG, AI GONNA HELP ME ACE MY EXAMS FO SHIZZLE 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking over the world, and the classroom is no exception. Students are excited about the potential of AI to help them learn, but they also have some hilarious reactions to it.

One student said, "I can't wait to have an AI best friend. It can do my homework, answer my questions, and even write my essays. I'll finally have time to binge-watch Netflix!" Another student said, "I'm not worried about AI taking over my job as a student. It will just make my job easier. I can focus on procrastinating, and AI can focus on doing my work for me."

Despite the humorous reactions, students believe that AI has the potential to revolutionize education. A recent survey found that 80% of students believe that AI will have a positive impact on education. They are particularly interested in using AI for personalized learning, real-time feedback, and access to information. They also believe that AI can help them develop critical thinking skills and creativity.

Of course, there are some challenges to using AI in the classroom. One challenge is that AI is still under development, and there is a risk that it could be used in a way that is harmful to students. Another challenge is that AI can be expensive, and not all schools can afford to implement it. But students are optimistic about the potential of AI to improve education.

So, what does this mean for teachers? It means that we need to start thinking about how we can use AI to enhance learning. We need to be open to new ideas and new ways of teaching. We need to be willing to experiment and to learn from our mistakes.

But most importantly, we need to remember that AI is not a threat to teachers. It is a tool that can help us do our jobs better. It can help us reach more students and help them learn more effectively. And who knows, maybe one day we'll have an AI teacher that can handle all the grading and paperwork while we sip margaritas on the beach. A teacher can dream, right?

In conclusion, students are excited about the potential of AI to revolutionize education. They have some hilarious reactions to it, but they also recognize the challenges and potential risks. As teachers, we need to embrace AI and use it to make education better for everyone. And who knows, maybe one day we'll have an AI principal that can handle all the discipline while we sneak off to the teacher's lounge for some much-needed gossip. The possibilities are endless!

'Please do not assume the worst of us': students know AI is here to stay and want unis to teach them how to use it https://theconversation.com/please-do-not-assume-the-worst-of-us-students-know-ai-is-here-to-stay-and-want-unis-to-teach-them-how-to-use-it-203426

ChatGPT in the classroom: Here's what teachers and students are saying https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2023/03/01/what-teachers-students-saying-ai-chatgpt-use-classrooms/11340040002/


TEXAS VOUCHER BILL: DEATH TO TEXAS PUBLIC EDUCATION


 TEXAS VOUCHER BILL:  DEATH TO TEXAS PUBLIC EDUCATION

Attention all Texans! Hold onto your cowboy hats because the Texas Legislature is considering a bill that will rock the education system to its core. That's right, folks, we're talking about the infamous voucher bill. And let me tell you, if this bill passes, it will be a disaster for Texas public education.

For those of you who don't know, vouchers would allow parents to use public funds to send their children to private schools. Sounds great, right? Wrong. This would divert money away from public schools, which would lead to cuts in programs and services. And let's face it, we all know that public schools are already struggling to meet the needs of all students. So why on earth would we want to make it even harder for them?

But wait, there's more! Vouchers would also create a two-tiered system of education. This means that those who can afford to send their children to private schools would get a better education than those who cannot. And let's be real, who wants to live in a state where only the rich can get a good education?

So what can we do to stop this voucher bill from becoming law? Well, for starters, we can contact our state legislators and let them know that we oppose this bill. We can also spread the word about the dangers of vouchers and encourage our friends and family to do the same. And finally, we can vote for candidates who are committed to protecting public education.

The future of Texas public education is at stake. Let's make sure we do everything we can to protect it.

Here are some additional arguments against the voucher bill:

  • Vouchers would weaken public schools by taking away funding.
  • Vouchers would create a two-tiered system of education, with those who can afford to send their children to private schools getting a better education than those who cannot.
  • Vouchers would lead to religious schools receiving public funds, which would violate the separation of church and state.
  • Vouchers would not improve academic achievement.
  • Vouchers would be a waste of taxpayer money.

The Texas Legislature should reject this voucher bill and invest in public education instead.

But wait, there's more!

Did you know that vouchers are actually a pretty funny idea? I mean, let's think about it for a second. We're talking about taking money away from public schools, which are already struggling, and giving it to private schools, which are often religious and exclusive. It's like we're saying, "Hey, public schools aren't good enough for our kids. We'd rather send them to schools that will indoctrinate them with our own beliefs."

It's pretty ridiculous, if you ask me. But that's the thing about vouchers. They're not just a serious issue. They're also kind of funny. And maybe that's why they're so dangerous. Because when we start to laugh at something, we start to take it less seriously. And when we take something less seriously, we're more likely to let it happen.

So please, don't laugh at the voucher bill. Laugh at the absurdity of it, sure. But don't laugh it off. This is a serious issue that could have a real impact on the future of Texas public education.

Let's all do our part to stop this bill from becoming law.

Texas House committee considers pared-down school voucher bill despite governor's veto threat https://www.tpr.org/education/2023-05-15/texas-house-committee-considers-pared-down-school-voucher-bill-despite-governors-veto-threat

Texas prepares for showdown over school choice bill: Teacher unions 'Fighting to the death' to keep 'control' https://www.foxnews.com/media/texas-prepares-showdown-school-choice-bill-teacher-unions-fighting-death-keep-control #FoxNews