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August 31, 2009

The most valuable way for me to utilize the materials funding is via professional development, for which the budget is extremely limited. Actually, this funding would be divided into 2-3+ catagories.

The first, professional development, is time provided to inform educators about the importance of physical and mental rest, which will provide obvious emotional relief. In laying this ground work, understanding would be given on as the body sleeps the brain 'plays catch up' as it continues to process all it has taken in since the body last awoke. This institute would be referenced as a link to my entries to-date on the body and brain resting.

The second, equipment for demonstration, would be to purchase a portable CD player which includes natural sounds to assist the listener in relaxing their whole body, especially their mind; as well as purchasing 'Mozart for Children' as a suggestion of music to be played during an independent reading lesson for example, to help focus and settle the students (Pre-K to 12th). Reaching a state of tranquillity might not be appropriate for a professional development, although certainly demonstrating techniques that may be implemented for 15 minutes of prep time or 1/2 hour in your closed office would serve as tension relief and meaningful time to re-group. Additionally, this demonstration encourages the educator to relax at home, especially at bed time, for a more peaceful and balanced sleep; while at the same time suggesting that the evening news be veiwed in place of the nightly broadcast, or at least not the last activity you experience before going to bed and to sleep.

The third, providing (non-composition book) journal samples, to encourage educators to write for reflection that which they are realizing as a result of being quiet in the midst of their day and sleeping more restfully during their nights. Of course, it is important to write how this may be a challenge as well; and how they are endeavoring to oversoem the challenges. This journals are for their personal use, however, in subsequent professional development sessions they may want to share some of their experiences in time allotted for this. Note: educators give journals to their students, yet may not take advantage of utilizing them personally.

The fourth, purchase rest and sleep DVDs, for use in these sessions to provide greater understanding from professionals in this field of study. This tools would be utilized in time scheduled for these sessions only, with the 2-3 'free' professional development sessions allowed, dedicated for this purpose.

Based on the assessment of space, CD/Sound Player, CDs, Journals, and DVDs, the base cost of this professional development is $400.00 per session.

Thank you for providing this institute to explore these areas of interest and need. Thank you for the funds to purchase supports to extend what we have explored, learned, and are willing to share with others.

Dr. Geneva E. Tolliferreo
Director of Education
IPAAM
Philadelphia, PA