In order for organizations at my school to fundraiser it needs to be approved at the September school board meeting, so tonight myself and other FBLA (Future Business Leader of America) adviser asked the board's permission to do a fundraiser.
This is the first time we have had to ask permission. Prior to this year the school board has supported financial my students advancements to national FBLA level competition, but with dwindling budgets this is coming to an end (but amazingly sport kids don't have to pay - another topic). My co-adivser Cindy did the leg work and filled out the paperwork for this to be approved and tonight we just shared with the board what we would like to do.
It is always good to be visible with the board so they know what the department is doing to help students succeed. It will be more work for us this year to keep track of the fundraising packets from our students but it should cause less work in the spring for going to our National conference.
Showing posts with label FBLA co-curricular. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FBLA co-curricular. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
FBLA Texting Competition
For Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) we plan activities for during the school day as well as after school. Our September fun activity was to have a texting competition and ice cream social. Our club treasurer was in charge of creating promotional materials as well as creating the phrases for the competition. We had the phrases entered into a power point presentation and clicked through the presentation for each level of competition
there were not fees for this event and it was a double elimination tournament. Students really enjoyed entering in the phrases and just being together. It was a busy schedule night for students at school so I would have hoped for more attendance, but the kids there really enjoyed the activities.
there were not fees for this event and it was a double elimination tournament. Students really enjoyed entering in the phrases and just being together. It was a busy schedule night for students at school so I would have hoped for more attendance, but the kids there really enjoyed the activities.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Freshmen Orientation
Today was the day that all the incoming new students at Seymour get to obtain their schedules, pay their fees, get their picture taken. Also perfect opportunity for new members for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). I had been working with my state officer in preparing a speech to give to students and parents about the importance of being involved in activities while in high school. We specifically do not tell them to join FBLA but what they can get out of being involved, this way every club in school is not trying to give a speech for them to join.
I went to school two times today because there was orientation at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. We had a display board to promote FBLA and handouts to encourage people to join. We had 4 to 5 officers there to help answer questions and encourage students to join. I did not have to do much but help the state officer practice her speech with a microphone and just facilitate the FBLA booth. My husband was out of town so I brought my two young boys with and that always means for interesting times. My oldest who has helped out with activities was walking up to parents and students handing out packets and telling them to join FBLA (as you can tell he is not shy), the younger boy was just content to run and play in the hallways.
It was about 5 hours of at school helping to get student involved in FBLA which is good exposure for the club. Hopefully it will pay off at our first meeting.
I went to school two times today because there was orientation at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. We had a display board to promote FBLA and handouts to encourage people to join. We had 4 to 5 officers there to help answer questions and encourage students to join. I did not have to do much but help the state officer practice her speech with a microphone and just facilitate the FBLA booth. My husband was out of town so I brought my two young boys with and that always means for interesting times. My oldest who has helped out with activities was walking up to parents and students handing out packets and telling them to join FBLA (as you can tell he is not shy), the younger boy was just content to run and play in the hallways.
It was about 5 hours of at school helping to get student involved in FBLA which is good exposure for the club. Hopefully it will pay off at our first meeting.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Freshmen Orientation Speech
The entire officer team for Seymour FBLA will be there to help but our state officer is giving the speech in her uniform to make more of a presence. I had not heard the speech in its entirety so on my way to and from Milwaukee today I called and listen to it over the phone. I gave her some edit revisions and then set a time for later to have a Skype meeting to see her give the speech. Again we tweaked the phrases and highlighted important details. This use of technology is great for students to see business applications not just the social part of the tool.
Monday will be a big day for FBLA getting to meet and great the incoming Freshmen. I hope we get some students excited about it.
Monday, August 15, 2011
FBLA State Planning Committee - Attaining Sponsorship
Being an Adviser to Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is a part of my career that is a constant. I have had the pleasure of working with 4 wonderful students as they took charge of their future and became Wisconsin State Officers, now I am working on my leadership for the state of Wisconsin.
I was asked this spring to work on the state planning committee for Wisconsin FBLA. Basically working with the committee we pull together the conference for over 2,000 students (and their always happy and deadline following advisers). I knew a couple of people on the committee and I talked it over with my husband on whether I should take on this responsibility (he tells me all the time I work too much and too late). I really felt that this would help me to be a better adviser and give more opportunities to the students at Seymour. So I said yes.
So far I have traveled to LaCrosse to get a tour of the facilities and hash out with fellow members who is doing what. Because someone new was on the committee that is always a good time to figure out what should be done where and with whom. Not having a lot of background on who previously did what I said "tell me what you want me to do, and I will do it!" I have been to several of these conferences to know and comprehend all the background work that needs to be done, but now I have the task of pulling pieces of it together with a great team.
I had a meeting with the state adviser on Thursday to go over my responsibilities and see her vision of where the organization can grow to. We went over in detail each assigned duties, some seem relativity easy (contacting police department and inform them of our conference and schedule) and other daunting (securing sponsorship for events and prizes for awards). This last task was the one that received the most of our time because it heavily relied upon for the continued growth of the organization. But where does one start? I can not focus my attention on smaller businesses, because they need to support the local chapters. I need big businesses that hopefully still have money/resources to give to educational programs like FBLA. The cold letter/phone call is so much hard to garner support. I have been thinking through a flier to help showcase what FBLA can do, but I know that lots of businesses put money and resources into these items only for them to find the direct route to the recycling bin.
So what are your thoughts on how to solicit business? What businesses to contact? Where do I get the list of large corporation in Wisconsin/Nation?
I did work 8 hours this day on this and reading my classroom.
I was asked this spring to work on the state planning committee for Wisconsin FBLA. Basically working with the committee we pull together the conference for over 2,000 students (and their always happy and deadline following advisers). I knew a couple of people on the committee and I talked it over with my husband on whether I should take on this responsibility (he tells me all the time I work too much and too late). I really felt that this would help me to be a better adviser and give more opportunities to the students at Seymour. So I said yes.
So far I have traveled to LaCrosse to get a tour of the facilities and hash out with fellow members who is doing what. Because someone new was on the committee that is always a good time to figure out what should be done where and with whom. Not having a lot of background on who previously did what I said "tell me what you want me to do, and I will do it!" I have been to several of these conferences to know and comprehend all the background work that needs to be done, but now I have the task of pulling pieces of it together with a great team.
I had a meeting with the state adviser on Thursday to go over my responsibilities and see her vision of where the organization can grow to. We went over in detail each assigned duties, some seem relativity easy (contacting police department and inform them of our conference and schedule) and other daunting (securing sponsorship for events and prizes for awards). This last task was the one that received the most of our time because it heavily relied upon for the continued growth of the organization. But where does one start? I can not focus my attention on smaller businesses, because they need to support the local chapters. I need big businesses that hopefully still have money/resources to give to educational programs like FBLA. The cold letter/phone call is so much hard to garner support. I have been thinking through a flier to help showcase what FBLA can do, but I know that lots of businesses put money and resources into these items only for them to find the direct route to the recycling bin.
So what are your thoughts on how to solicit business? What businesses to contact? Where do I get the list of large corporation in Wisconsin/Nation?
I did work 8 hours this day on this and reading my classroom.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
FBLA Seymour Officer Make a Calendar & More Google Apps
It is so wonderful to work with students and see them excited for what they want to do. Today was the day where Seymour officer plan their year. I had prior today worked with Taylor (our president and current state officer) on ideas and thoughts for the year. This was easy to do because we have spent over 2 weeks together this summer as well as the constant emails and text messages about projects. Using gmail accounts I am hoping will make it easier to communicate, but I have to get the entire officer team use to login in and checking email (it is too slow and cumbersome, I will probably text them to check email).
We started the day talking about ideas and thoughts for the day and goals for the chapter. We did a lot of talking at Local Officer Training in the Dells but three officers could not make it, so this was to be the time for the entire team to pull it together. Unfortunately two officers did not show (I know they were out of the country early this summer but they had said they would be back by August 10, which is why we picked this date). Anyway we had to work, so ides and projects were just assigned to them. I took the ideas and dates and put them into the shared google calendar that I created. Again I am hoping this will help them to realize time commitments.
Here is a screen shot of just one of our months that we planned. We still don't have concession dates in the calendar because . . . . well I am not going to talk about it. It makes my blood boil. Anyway here is a screen shot.
Such is the day and life of an adviser of FBLA I do really enjoy working with the students but you can see how my calendar is pretty busy and that does not include work assignments and of course family.
The day went very well, after I was done finishing the calendar for everyone the work for Freshman Orientation was completed. We have a presentation to all incoming Freshman on the importance of being involved in extra-curricular in high school. We don't just focus on FBLA, but all activities and sports and what it can do to help.
Also planned was permission slips for trips to Madison and Milwaukee. The homecoming float design is done and I will have pictures after the parade (it should be fun). We are having committees to work on all of this, so we have to get officers ready to have club members help with the projects.
I was at school from 8 to 4. I did have a lengthy converstation with Andy our Tech Guru about Google apps and what he learned in a Webinar he did today, because I knew it was over my head. He said he would do the serve side work, BIG SMILE. He did give me some research on cost and size issues with a depolyment the size of the high school. So I will be having more blog post on that topic. I estimated that I would like to have it ready to roll out to the entire building at the start of 2nd Semester, but deploying and testing with students and staff during 2nd quarter. I hope that is not too far off, but I also want to plan some training in there with my new Technology Coaching hours.
After work at school I came home and finished two photobooks I wanted to have done for FBLA. I would say I have had 3 hours of work to create these albums for FBLA and tonight I can say they are ordered. I will then have them for Freshman Orientation on August 22. Here is a link to the blog post with one of the albums.
11 hours of work today.
We started the day talking about ideas and thoughts for the day and goals for the chapter. We did a lot of talking at Local Officer Training in the Dells but three officers could not make it, so this was to be the time for the entire team to pull it together. Unfortunately two officers did not show (I know they were out of the country early this summer but they had said they would be back by August 10, which is why we picked this date). Anyway we had to work, so ides and projects were just assigned to them. I took the ideas and dates and put them into the shared google calendar that I created. Again I am hoping this will help them to realize time commitments.
Here is a screen shot of just one of our months that we planned. We still don't have concession dates in the calendar because . . . . well I am not going to talk about it. It makes my blood boil. Anyway here is a screen shot.
Such is the day and life of an adviser of FBLA I do really enjoy working with the students but you can see how my calendar is pretty busy and that does not include work assignments and of course family.
The day went very well, after I was done finishing the calendar for everyone the work for Freshman Orientation was completed. We have a presentation to all incoming Freshman on the importance of being involved in extra-curricular in high school. We don't just focus on FBLA, but all activities and sports and what it can do to help.
Also planned was permission slips for trips to Madison and Milwaukee. The homecoming float design is done and I will have pictures after the parade (it should be fun). We are having committees to work on all of this, so we have to get officers ready to have club members help with the projects.
I was at school from 8 to 4. I did have a lengthy converstation with Andy our Tech Guru about Google apps and what he learned in a Webinar he did today, because I knew it was over my head. He said he would do the serve side work, BIG SMILE. He did give me some research on cost and size issues with a depolyment the size of the high school. So I will be having more blog post on that topic. I estimated that I would like to have it ready to roll out to the entire building at the start of 2nd Semester, but deploying and testing with students and staff during 2nd quarter. I hope that is not too far off, but I also want to plan some training in there with my new Technology Coaching hours.
After work at school I came home and finished two photobooks I wanted to have done for FBLA. I would say I have had 3 hours of work to create these albums for FBLA and tonight I can say they are ordered. I will then have them for Freshman Orientation on August 22. Here is a link to the blog post with one of the albums.
11 hours of work today.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Organizing Classroom
So I went to school to get my room ready because of summer cleaning and new items being brought in.
The day started with logging into the computer and then doing updates on all the software that has updates for the summer. I have been using Google Chrome more and I did download that browser and I worked on getting it setup and personalized to increase my productivity.
I was also able to go through and create gmail accounts for the Seymour FBLA officer team and a created a shared calendar so that the officers will be organized and prepared for the meeting we will be having this week.I am continually thinking of ways to make the students more in charge of the organization but that means I need to be even further ahead. I am getting there, especially because I have such great other FBLA advisers that share ideas (Jan I, Michelle M, Cindy O, & Jen W to just name a few of the awesome advisers that I some day hope to be more like). I did take the html embed code for the shareable calendar and embed that on the Seymour High School's FBLA webpage. I admit I don't update it often because I don't know how often it is referenced, but I hope this will help.
I of course did send a lot of emails, when don't I. I was trying to coordinate a meeting with my administration for the upcoming school year. Which makes me think of organizing the concession stand calendar and dealing with individuals that are not as passionate as myself for the endeavor. I am trying to remain calm!
I have yet to double check to see if my student computers are set up correctly. I usually just check a few to be sure it is all there. Nothing like planning a lesson and then discovering the software doesn't work and is not loaded. Here is the dilemma if I login I have admin rights and it works but students logging with with fewer privileges it sometimes doesn't work. I will have to come up with a work around for that.
The day was productive, but never productive enough. It was nice to ride my bike to school (plus Gordon rode his bike to day care for the day and loved it). I worked 6 hours and could have work a ton more.
I did go pick my my personal PC from the repair shop (botched unpartition of the C drive came up with a bad boot file for Windows) but when I went to set it up I discovered my LCD monitor was not working. So of course I took it apart. Here is what it looks like
The day started with logging into the computer and then doing updates on all the software that has updates for the summer. I have been using Google Chrome more and I did download that browser and I worked on getting it setup and personalized to increase my productivity.
I was also able to go through and create gmail accounts for the Seymour FBLA officer team and a created a shared calendar so that the officers will be organized and prepared for the meeting we will be having this week.I am continually thinking of ways to make the students more in charge of the organization but that means I need to be even further ahead. I am getting there, especially because I have such great other FBLA advisers that share ideas (Jan I, Michelle M, Cindy O, & Jen W to just name a few of the awesome advisers that I some day hope to be more like). I did take the html embed code for the shareable calendar and embed that on the Seymour High School's FBLA webpage. I admit I don't update it often because I don't know how often it is referenced, but I hope this will help.
I of course did send a lot of emails, when don't I. I was trying to coordinate a meeting with my administration for the upcoming school year. Which makes me think of organizing the concession stand calendar and dealing with individuals that are not as passionate as myself for the endeavor. I am trying to remain calm!
I have yet to double check to see if my student computers are set up correctly. I usually just check a few to be sure it is all there. Nothing like planning a lesson and then discovering the software doesn't work and is not loaded. Here is the dilemma if I login I have admin rights and it works but students logging with with fewer privileges it sometimes doesn't work. I will have to come up with a work around for that.
The day was productive, but never productive enough. It was nice to ride my bike to school (plus Gordon rode his bike to day care for the day and loved it). I worked 6 hours and could have work a ton more.
I did go pick my my personal PC from the repair shop (botched unpartition of the C drive came up with a bad boot file for Windows) but when I went to set it up I discovered my LCD monitor was not working. So of course I took it apart. Here is what it looks like
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Local Officer Training Day 2
Up to start the day at 6 a.m. after going to sleep at 1 a.m. Boy do students love to be in a hotel room away from students. We did have a productive night. Our president had a great agenda put together for the day and we got through most of it (the rest we will conquer later).
Today started with a breakfast buffet provided with the registration (it was yummy lots of fresh fruit). Then into the opening session. We were there for the session and watched students interact and then it was off to a meeting with just the business teachers.
Our DPI Consultant Jen Wegner is a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic supporter of education. She brought to our meeting some great resources. Our meeting started by talking about the current condition of business departments in the state due to the decrease in funding and that a majority of our courses are not required for graduation. That lead into Jen's first handout which was pulled together by another content area and was modified for Business & Information Technology (B&IT), Programs in Peril. One of the biggest steps is to be Pro-Active, develop your professional support networks, be involved in district planning, and understand student motivation and interest. There are 15 points on this document and as a non required teacher it really makes you think about your job and role in the entire education setting.
Then we covered the calendar for the upcoming year. There were already lots of professional learning opportunities this July but still even more to come this school year. Wisconsin Business Education Association (WBEA) and DPI are teaming to offering spring updates. They will be offered in 6 different locations around the state of Wisconsin and I made sure I got the date on my calendar to attend the one in Green Bay. 2011-2012 B&IT Calendar
Since the state of Wisconsin is in such peril for funding in for education every dollar is scrutinized and we discussed the use of the Career Technical Education (CTE) website which offers facts and data on the importance of all CTE (Ag, FACE, Tech Ed, and Business) Here is a great video with highlighting the importance of all CTE
Next we discussed the changing role of accounting in high school. Do we teach accounting as it is in college or do we give an exposure to the area and then let them learn more at their high educational institutions. Have a career research piece is important so students know all of the areas that they can do with accounting. I am going to add more pieces to my course this year. I have also made connections at Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) with having transcripted and articulated credit. But the rules and regulations are constantly changing and it is hard to keep up with their changing rules.
We then covered dates and important changes for Wisconsin Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Have a state officer and working on the state conference planning committee I was already aware of many of these changes but still thinking about how to implement and have my local chapter have a successful year.
We then came to the sharing time. OK, I admit I forgot to bring anything. I will blame it on being at the lake for the 2 weeks prior to attending. Michelle McGlynn and Jan Imhoff provided some great resources on classroom activities and Paul from Pulaski gave some handouts on running a school store. Other great discussion was had about activities. I always love hearing ideas and getting motivated for the school year.
The afternoon was left for us to work on projects. I set up all of our officers with a gmail account and next I will be creating a calendar to share with the accounts so they know dates and responsibilities.
We left the Dells around 3:30 and drove home around 6. So 12 hours on this great day of work. The drive home students were energized and discussed ideas and projects for the year. Watch out FBLA already has their homecoming float idea.
Today started with a breakfast buffet provided with the registration (it was yummy lots of fresh fruit). Then into the opening session. We were there for the session and watched students interact and then it was off to a meeting with just the business teachers.
Our DPI Consultant Jen Wegner is a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic supporter of education. She brought to our meeting some great resources. Our meeting started by talking about the current condition of business departments in the state due to the decrease in funding and that a majority of our courses are not required for graduation. That lead into Jen's first handout which was pulled together by another content area and was modified for Business & Information Technology (B&IT), Programs in Peril. One of the biggest steps is to be Pro-Active, develop your professional support networks, be involved in district planning, and understand student motivation and interest. There are 15 points on this document and as a non required teacher it really makes you think about your job and role in the entire education setting.
Then we covered the calendar for the upcoming year. There were already lots of professional learning opportunities this July but still even more to come this school year. Wisconsin Business Education Association (WBEA) and DPI are teaming to offering spring updates. They will be offered in 6 different locations around the state of Wisconsin and I made sure I got the date on my calendar to attend the one in Green Bay. 2011-2012 B&IT Calendar
Since the state of Wisconsin is in such peril for funding in for education every dollar is scrutinized and we discussed the use of the Career Technical Education (CTE) website which offers facts and data on the importance of all CTE (Ag, FACE, Tech Ed, and Business) Here is a great video with highlighting the importance of all CTE
Next we discussed the changing role of accounting in high school. Do we teach accounting as it is in college or do we give an exposure to the area and then let them learn more at their high educational institutions. Have a career research piece is important so students know all of the areas that they can do with accounting. I am going to add more pieces to my course this year. I have also made connections at Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) with having transcripted and articulated credit. But the rules and regulations are constantly changing and it is hard to keep up with their changing rules.
We then covered dates and important changes for Wisconsin Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Have a state officer and working on the state conference planning committee I was already aware of many of these changes but still thinking about how to implement and have my local chapter have a successful year.
We then came to the sharing time. OK, I admit I forgot to bring anything. I will blame it on being at the lake for the 2 weeks prior to attending. Michelle McGlynn and Jan Imhoff provided some great resources on classroom activities and Paul from Pulaski gave some handouts on running a school store. Other great discussion was had about activities. I always love hearing ideas and getting motivated for the school year.
The afternoon was left for us to work on projects. I set up all of our officers with a gmail account and next I will be creating a calendar to share with the accounts so they know dates and responsibilities.
We left the Dells around 3:30 and drove home around 6. So 12 hours on this great day of work. The drive home students were energized and discussed ideas and projects for the year. Watch out FBLA already has their homecoming float idea.
Local Officer Training Day 1
Having a state officer is a great opportunity for our school, it is also a time commitment. A conference is being hosted to train Local Officers. I had to make sure that the reservation for the hotel was completed as well as registration done. This took about 45 minutes (including coordinating student travel and time frames).
On the first day of the conference I meet students at school at 10 a.m. and we got equipment and supplies from the business department. We then had a 2.5 hour drive using the school vehicle to arrive at Wisconsin Dells. Curfew for the night is Midnight.
During the day students learned about completing a program of work (planning for the upcoming year). Setting goals, presentations skills and getting our local chapter officers ready to go for the year.
Prior to student arriving I worked on the computer getting caught up on work. Arriving at school at 8 a.m. curfew at midnight.
Hours logged 16 hours.
On the first day of the conference I meet students at school at 10 a.m. and we got equipment and supplies from the business department. We then had a 2.5 hour drive using the school vehicle to arrive at Wisconsin Dells. Curfew for the night is Midnight.
During the day students learned about completing a program of work (planning for the upcoming year). Setting goals, presentations skills and getting our local chapter officers ready to go for the year.
Prior to student arriving I worked on the computer getting caught up on work. Arriving at school at 8 a.m. curfew at midnight.
Hours logged 16 hours.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
NLC Wrap Up
The National Leadership conference is over and it is so great that we had someone from Seymour on stage taking 4th place! What a great reward for their hard work.
Wrapping up for the conference. I had to go into school to verify payment for tours from all participants were received (what great kids, they were all done). This took about 45 minutes (because of the paperwork that needs to be done to document everything)
Also needed to be sure that all the equipment was returned from the presentations. Laptops, projectors, speakers, clickers, etc. So far I am only missing 1 projector. I will be texting the student to get that taken care of. This follow up took about 30 minutes.
Writing of the press release so that students get recognized in the community for their hard work. This took 15 minutes.
The Brat Fry that was held as a fund raiser still had numerous items that had be returned or put back to their proper spot. I had removed them from my vehicle and placed them in my classroom, but it was a mess. Luckly I had a student stop by and help me out. What took me 1.5 hours was cut in half because of the help! THANK YOU!!!
So this wrap up took 3 hours.
Wrapping up for the conference. I had to go into school to verify payment for tours from all participants were received (what great kids, they were all done). This took about 45 minutes (because of the paperwork that needs to be done to document everything)
Also needed to be sure that all the equipment was returned from the presentations. Laptops, projectors, speakers, clickers, etc. So far I am only missing 1 projector. I will be texting the student to get that taken care of. This follow up took about 30 minutes.
Writing of the press release so that students get recognized in the community for their hard work. This took 15 minutes.
The Brat Fry that was held as a fund raiser still had numerous items that had be returned or put back to their proper spot. I had removed them from my vehicle and placed them in my classroom, but it was a mess. Luckly I had a student stop by and help me out. What took me 1.5 hours was cut in half because of the help! THANK YOU!!!
So this wrap up took 3 hours.
Friday, July 1, 2011
NLC - Day 6
This day is much more relaxing. The hard work is done it is now just wait until awards ceremony to find out places. We start the day with a NorthCentral meeting where Seymour gets to vote on the new NorthCentral VicePresident. The meeting starts at 9:15 a.m. and goes for and hour. Following that it is DisneyQuest. The entire Seymour delegation is going to play some games. This activity will be about 4 hours and we pre-purchased the tickets and transportation
Upon getting back from there a quick bit for an early dinner and it is awards time. This is where we find out how we did compared to the Nation. The music is pumping kids are excited and all dressed up. The awards program is broadcast live and parents back in Wisconsin watch to see if their child makes the stage.
All events are done in alphabetic order so that helps the students to know when to get excited and to notify parents on when to watch the live broadcast.
Seymour makes the state and places 4th in the Nation for E-Business. So proud of their hard work and they get a $200 cash award for their efforts!
The awards program last around 2.5 hours and then we go back to the hotel. The last night and kids hit the pool and the dance being hosted by the conference. Midnight and it is curfew and bed checks.
Upon getting back from there a quick bit for an early dinner and it is awards time. This is where we find out how we did compared to the Nation. The music is pumping kids are excited and all dressed up. The awards program is broadcast live and parents back in Wisconsin watch to see if their child makes the stage.
All events are done in alphabetic order so that helps the students to know when to get excited and to notify parents on when to watch the live broadcast.
Seymour makes the state and places 4th in the Nation for E-Business. So proud of their hard work and they get a $200 cash award for their efforts!
 |
| Seymour is 4th! YEAH! |
16 hour day again.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
NLC - Day 5
The day starts early with one student taking at test at 7:45 a.m. Yup in bed after 1:30 a.m. and up bright and early the next day. I sure hope I get to sleep when I get home, cause during this conference I run short on bed rest.
Then the day is planned around final presentation for E-Business. Not much to change for presentation but just confidence and poise. I go and watch other final presentations for this event and it is good because it cause me to think differently for next year's students. My student does let me watch her presentation and I am glad because I like to see the effort student put in. Following her presentation I go and watch other finals to get ideas to bring back to Seymour and students for next year's Nationals.
The afternoon today is reserved for some down time and then a Chapter dinner. I picked out Joe's Crab Shack as a location and following that it is some Mini-golf. We take a taxi instead of he i-trolley that is available based on other adviser's statements about wait time and other struggles. It is so good to have other advisers that are so willing to help on these trips!
Following our activity kids to go the pool for the bonfire and then it is curfew at midnight. Thankfully I get to go to bed right around that same time to. I need the sleep. So day 5 of conference 16 hour day.
Then the day is planned around final presentation for E-Business. Not much to change for presentation but just confidence and poise. I go and watch other final presentations for this event and it is good because it cause me to think differently for next year's students. My student does let me watch her presentation and I am glad because I like to see the effort student put in. Following her presentation I go and watch other finals to get ideas to bring back to Seymour and students for next year's Nationals.
The afternoon today is reserved for some down time and then a Chapter dinner. I picked out Joe's Crab Shack as a location and following that it is some Mini-golf. We take a taxi instead of he i-trolley that is available based on other adviser's statements about wait time and other struggles. It is so good to have other advisers that are so willing to help on these trips!
Following our activity kids to go the pool for the bonfire and then it is curfew at midnight. Thankfully I get to go to bed right around that same time to. I need the sleep. So day 5 of conference 16 hour day.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
NLC - Day 4
Ok, today is a day of juggling schedules. Upon arriving at the conference I texted students that were giving presentations the times and locations of their presentations. Today all three are presenting. I did not talk about this in my previous post (well it was getting long), but I also sit down with each group/person presenting and go over what to do. This is also a chance for me to give them really hard questions that judges might give them. I like to do this so they feel very prepared to knock the socks of the judges. So on Day 2 of the conference I watched/listened to two of my three presentation for Nationals. Boy have they been working hard on their presentations. I don't ask them to change any content but vocals, pausing and confidence is the only thing to work on now.
On top of getting students ready I am also helping to administer a presentation. I was helping to facilitate the event Business Financial Plan. I enjoy doing this task because it gets me more aware of different events I have not had student participate in. The only down side is that I am stuck in one location and my students do not get my undivided attention prior to their presentations.
So up and out of the room by 8 a.m. at the convention and working right away. I am working the event until noon and then a quick lunch and then a walk around the exhibit hall where the campaign booths are located. Upon completion of that, I coordinate with presenting students to go over any last minute questions and then it is wait until it is over. I had two presentations that felt very confident and one group struggled with a technology issue and felt that knocked them out of the running. We will keep our fingers crossed.
In the afternoon we have the NorthCentral meeting. Which is a region of FBLA states that compete in some chapter/state events and network based on location. There is also some campaign speeches given here for vice president. Over all the meeting last about an hour, but Seymour does get recognized for being a Gold Seal Chapter! Way to Go!
After this meeting is it wait until final are posted. So we went to an Arabian Nights Dinner Theater show. It was a nice show and a good opportunity for the entire group to be together in a fun atmosphere. Then we get back to the hotel and wait, wait, wait. They get back to their hotel rooms prior to the midnight curfew and thanks to the addition of social networking we can just hit refresh and wait for the posts.
Midnight passes and we are still waiting for one presentation to post the final round. So far E-business is the only presentation to make it to finals. We were up until 1:30 waiting for posts and so it was, Seymour has one presentation going on Thursday. The other students who didn't make finals now plan and strategize to watch other event finals to get ready for NEXT year (I love planning ahead!)
So up at at the conference by 8 a.m. and done working with students at 1:30 a.m. 17.5 hour day.
Wheww! I am getting tired
On top of getting students ready I am also helping to administer a presentation. I was helping to facilitate the event Business Financial Plan. I enjoy doing this task because it gets me more aware of different events I have not had student participate in. The only down side is that I am stuck in one location and my students do not get my undivided attention prior to their presentations.
So up and out of the room by 8 a.m. at the convention and working right away. I am working the event until noon and then a quick lunch and then a walk around the exhibit hall where the campaign booths are located. Upon completion of that, I coordinate with presenting students to go over any last minute questions and then it is wait until it is over. I had two presentations that felt very confident and one group struggled with a technology issue and felt that knocked them out of the running. We will keep our fingers crossed.
In the afternoon we have the NorthCentral meeting. Which is a region of FBLA states that compete in some chapter/state events and network based on location. There is also some campaign speeches given here for vice president. Over all the meeting last about an hour, but Seymour does get recognized for being a Gold Seal Chapter! Way to Go!
After this meeting is it wait until final are posted. So we went to an Arabian Nights Dinner Theater show. It was a nice show and a good opportunity for the entire group to be together in a fun atmosphere. Then we get back to the hotel and wait, wait, wait. They get back to their hotel rooms prior to the midnight curfew and thanks to the addition of social networking we can just hit refresh and wait for the posts.
Midnight passes and we are still waiting for one presentation to post the final round. So far E-business is the only presentation to make it to finals. We were up until 1:30 waiting for posts and so it was, Seymour has one presentation going on Thursday. The other students who didn't make finals now plan and strategize to watch other event finals to get ready for NEXT year (I love planning ahead!)
So up at at the conference by 8 a.m. and done working with students at 1:30 a.m. 17.5 hour day.
Wheww! I am getting tired
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
NLC - Day 3
This morning starts of just as the same as Monday (Day 2 of trip). One student in Leadership Training, two others going with parents for a morning trip, and I am off to DisneyWorld (Animal Kingdom) with the rest.
Meet in the lobby by 8:20 a.m. and we have eaten breakfast already. Hop in a taxi and drive to the park. Much easier to do this on day two, already knowing something of what to expect. We have less time in the park today as we have two meetings to attend to start the official conference. We arrive and met with our other student and Mom at the park and off we went on our Safari ride. What great advice the Mom gave us on doing that ride first, as the animals are out more in the earlier part of day before the heat gets to much. The rest of day at the park we went to shows and rides. I will say be sure to schedule in your day there the Lion King show. The performers do an excellent job and it was amazing.
The return from Animal kingdom was different as my two students went with the other student who was staying on Disney property to help them navigate back to our hotel for the conference. So only three back on the taxi (increases the cost per person slightly).
Back at the hotel I am finally able to get to conference registration and pick up all required materials and then I can go to the mandatory adviser meeting. This hour long meeting they discuss procedures and changes that have been made to the convention program as well as safety tips and reminders about the facilities. This is also a good time to network with other advisers from across the country.
I am constantly coordinating with my state officer via text on times/locations to meet to be sure she is fully prepared for her responsibilities at the conference. It is so wonderful to work with students who take on the role of officer, they are so responsible and it makes me proud to be a teacher!
Then I coordinate the rest of my students to get them in their business attire and then it is off to the state meeting. I arrive early to help facilitate any part of the meeting, but our state adviser and state officers really did a great job of running the show. This meeting gets all participants from Wisconsin coordinated on what to expect and what to do for Wisconsin. Cheers are reviewed, upcoming training's are discussed and students get excited for the upcoming events. Seymour's state officer had to give a couple of speeches that we had worked on and brought with prior to flying out for Florida and she did a great job!
After the state meeting some down time and then it is off to the opening session. The opening session at this conference is what really gets students pumped up. There is music, pictures and of course the trading of the pins. Students purchase for $1 a Wisconsin pin and then go and trade with other states. This encourages meeting new people and networking. There is a keynote speaker as well as campaign speeches given for National Officers. This year Wisconsin was lucky enough to have a candidate running for National office, so the entire state was yelling and supporting our candidate.
This opening session meeting lasts just over 2 hours and students are done sitting still by that time. It is difficult to keep them (ok, even myself, off the electronic devices during the session).
Students then had time to hangout and meet people until curfew. I have at several time state to students the expectations of being in the room before midnight for curfew. Many students went down to the pool for the bonfire and enjoyed meeting new people.
So this day is from 8:20 to Midnight. Yup 16 hours again.
Meet in the lobby by 8:20 a.m. and we have eaten breakfast already. Hop in a taxi and drive to the park. Much easier to do this on day two, already knowing something of what to expect. We have less time in the park today as we have two meetings to attend to start the official conference. We arrive and met with our other student and Mom at the park and off we went on our Safari ride. What great advice the Mom gave us on doing that ride first, as the animals are out more in the earlier part of day before the heat gets to much. The rest of day at the park we went to shows and rides. I will say be sure to schedule in your day there the Lion King show. The performers do an excellent job and it was amazing.
The return from Animal kingdom was different as my two students went with the other student who was staying on Disney property to help them navigate back to our hotel for the conference. So only three back on the taxi (increases the cost per person slightly).
Back at the hotel I am finally able to get to conference registration and pick up all required materials and then I can go to the mandatory adviser meeting. This hour long meeting they discuss procedures and changes that have been made to the convention program as well as safety tips and reminders about the facilities. This is also a good time to network with other advisers from across the country.
I am constantly coordinating with my state officer via text on times/locations to meet to be sure she is fully prepared for her responsibilities at the conference. It is so wonderful to work with students who take on the role of officer, they are so responsible and it makes me proud to be a teacher!
Then I coordinate the rest of my students to get them in their business attire and then it is off to the state meeting. I arrive early to help facilitate any part of the meeting, but our state adviser and state officers really did a great job of running the show. This meeting gets all participants from Wisconsin coordinated on what to expect and what to do for Wisconsin. Cheers are reviewed, upcoming training's are discussed and students get excited for the upcoming events. Seymour's state officer had to give a couple of speeches that we had worked on and brought with prior to flying out for Florida and she did a great job!
 |
| Opening session with trading pins on name badge. |
This opening session meeting lasts just over 2 hours and students are done sitting still by that time. It is difficult to keep them (ok, even myself, off the electronic devices during the session).
Students then had time to hangout and meet people until curfew. I have at several time state to students the expectations of being in the room before midnight for curfew. Many students went down to the pool for the bonfire and enjoyed meeting new people.
So this day is from 8:20 to Midnight. Yup 16 hours again.
Monday, June 27, 2011
NLC - Day 2
All went well we were in the hotel. I had one student who was spending the day in leadership training at the convention center with all the other Wisconsin State Officers, two students traveling with parents to the beach (I had arranged permission slips to make sure that I knew everyone knew it was ok for them to travel without me for the day) and that left me with three students for a day of adventure at DisneyWorld.
I know that some people may read this and say ok you are at DisneyWorld how is that work. Well because I am the adviser on the trip I am really just doing what the students want to do and I hold back my opinion on rides and locations. Students worked hard on earning their trip to Nationals, so I just make sure they are safe and following reasonable expectations.
The day starts with figuring out transportation from the hotel to Disney. I had two students with me at the hotel and I was meeting another at Disney with her Mom. I also had my six year old and my mother. So a taxi for five was the most economical. First taxi ride for the students and they were excited to go. A delay on getting into Magic Kingdom due to a Tram shut down, but 30 minutes later we were in and looking for our meeting spot with my other student.
It was a great day. We went on rides and my students Mom was really a Disney expert. She knew how to use the Disney fastpass feature to make the most of our time there. We walked a ton. We left the park after 11 p.m. So up at 7 a.m. in the taxi by 8:30 a.m. and return by midnight. The other students and I communicated during the day on where they were and who they were with. A curfew check at midnight and the day is through. A wonderful day of advising students for 16 straight hours.
I know that some people may read this and say ok you are at DisneyWorld how is that work. Well because I am the adviser on the trip I am really just doing what the students want to do and I hold back my opinion on rides and locations. Students worked hard on earning their trip to Nationals, so I just make sure they are safe and following reasonable expectations.
The day starts with figuring out transportation from the hotel to Disney. I had two students with me at the hotel and I was meeting another at Disney with her Mom. I also had my six year old and my mother. So a taxi for five was the most economical. First taxi ride for the students and they were excited to go. A delay on getting into Magic Kingdom due to a Tram shut down, but 30 minutes later we were in and looking for our meeting spot with my other student.It was a great day. We went on rides and my students Mom was really a Disney expert. She knew how to use the Disney fastpass feature to make the most of our time there. We walked a ton. We left the park after 11 p.m. So up at 7 a.m. in the taxi by 8:30 a.m. and return by midnight. The other students and I communicated during the day on where they were and who they were with. A curfew check at midnight and the day is through. A wonderful day of advising students for 16 straight hours.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
NLC -Day 1
So we are flying out today for Nationals. I am taking 6 students to Orlando so they can compete against the rest of the Nation. They are ready to show off their business talents. I have been arranging transportation, equipment, housing, registration since April, and now we are meeting and traveling.
The work day is starting by meeting at the Appleton airport at 3 p.m. Since the airport is close all students had to arrange their own transportation to and from the airport. We all made it on time. Prior to the trip I sent the students a text with their flight confirmation number and asked them to register online and pay for check luggage (if they were taking some). They all were able to take care of that prior to meeting at the airport. This made check-in much easier.
Our flight left Appleton around 4:30, we had a connecting flight in Detroit. Thank goodness no problems with the connection and we arrived in Orlando at 10:15 p.m. (eastern time). Once we got our luggage (again no problems there either :) ) we arrange for round trip transportation to/from the hotel. I held onto the receipts so when we travel back I don't have to worry about someone losing it and having to purchase another ticket.
We arrived at our Hotel around 11:45 p.m. and got checked into our hotel room. Let me tell you that when you travel with students and have to check into a hotel, there are always problems with one person being responsible for 4 rooms. So far the Hilton has been doing a great job. I did make sure that I brought along another copy of our state tax exempt status, try to save our students some money.
Once checked in finally got to bed around 1 a.m. because we had not eaten any dinner because of timing of flights. So ordered a pizza and shared with the students and then rest time.
Day 1 worked 9 hours (not counting the packing prior to the trip).
The work day is starting by meeting at the Appleton airport at 3 p.m. Since the airport is close all students had to arrange their own transportation to and from the airport. We all made it on time. Prior to the trip I sent the students a text with their flight confirmation number and asked them to register online and pay for check luggage (if they were taking some). They all were able to take care of that prior to meeting at the airport. This made check-in much easier.
Our flight left Appleton around 4:30, we had a connecting flight in Detroit. Thank goodness no problems with the connection and we arrived in Orlando at 10:15 p.m. (eastern time). Once we got our luggage (again no problems there either :) ) we arrange for round trip transportation to/from the hotel. I held onto the receipts so when we travel back I don't have to worry about someone losing it and having to purchase another ticket.
We arrived at our Hotel around 11:45 p.m. and got checked into our hotel room. Let me tell you that when you travel with students and have to check into a hotel, there are always problems with one person being responsible for 4 rooms. So far the Hilton has been doing a great job. I did make sure that I brought along another copy of our state tax exempt status, try to save our students some money.
Once checked in finally got to bed around 1 a.m. because we had not eaten any dinner because of timing of flights. So ordered a pizza and shared with the students and then rest time.
Day 1 worked 9 hours (not counting the packing prior to the trip).
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Gearing Up for Trip
On Sunday I leave with some wondeful students to attend the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Orlando. Traveling with students is such an eye opening experience. Students often times have not traveled without their parents or even out of the state before. Trying to please a group of individuals who have different tastes in food and entertainment can be trying on anyone nerves, but the rewards and memories students have is what makes it worth while.
As an overview of my upcoming trip I arranged airline and hotel reservations for my 6 students, as well as making arrangements to share a hotel room with students to defray costs. All of this work was done months ago, but the arrangements for entertainment are always in flux. This year due to the size of my group (this is the largest group I have taken - I am no Portage FBLA Chapter) I wanted to arrange all of it ahead time so everyone was sure of the agenda and admissions were paid for prior to leaving (so no unexpected costs).
I have been worried about transportation costs to and from the airport. We are not renting a car so working with a shuttle service or taxi. The taxi is one flat fee no matter how many individuals are traveling, but then students have to figure out the shared cost of travel and plus I can't have students in a taxi without me. These are all arrangements and thoughts I go through prior to leaving.
I have also already confirmed that students don't need any medications, but I also want to be sure I have extra's of stuff they may need since we are in Orlando 6 nights.
The past couple of days I was traveling with my family to celebrate our Tenth Anniversary, but still on vacation I answered several text messages about the upcoming trip and several emails about school work. I would estimate over that last 3 days I have spend at least 1.5 hours with emails/texts confirming data for the trip.
I also started packing today so does that count for work? I am going to guess not, but still it is me prepping for taking students on the trip.
Here is my trip information:
Fly out Sunday, meeting at airport at 3 p.m. (I will count that as the start of work time)
Fly back on Saturday arriving at home airport at 4 p.m.(I will count that as the end of the trip).
I will try to do some updates during the trip, but I know it will be super busy crazy, but still fun
As an overview of my upcoming trip I arranged airline and hotel reservations for my 6 students, as well as making arrangements to share a hotel room with students to defray costs. All of this work was done months ago, but the arrangements for entertainment are always in flux. This year due to the size of my group (this is the largest group I have taken - I am no Portage FBLA Chapter) I wanted to arrange all of it ahead time so everyone was sure of the agenda and admissions were paid for prior to leaving (so no unexpected costs).
I have been worried about transportation costs to and from the airport. We are not renting a car so working with a shuttle service or taxi. The taxi is one flat fee no matter how many individuals are traveling, but then students have to figure out the shared cost of travel and plus I can't have students in a taxi without me. These are all arrangements and thoughts I go through prior to leaving.
I have also already confirmed that students don't need any medications, but I also want to be sure I have extra's of stuff they may need since we are in Orlando 6 nights.
The past couple of days I was traveling with my family to celebrate our Tenth Anniversary, but still on vacation I answered several text messages about the upcoming trip and several emails about school work. I would estimate over that last 3 days I have spend at least 1.5 hours with emails/texts confirming data for the trip.I also started packing today so does that count for work? I am going to guess not, but still it is me prepping for taking students on the trip.
Here is my trip information:
Fly out Sunday, meeting at airport at 3 p.m. (I will count that as the start of work time)
Fly back on Saturday arriving at home airport at 4 p.m.(I will count that as the end of the trip).
I will try to do some updates during the trip, but I know it will be super busy crazy, but still fun
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Nationals Trip - Orlando
I have written about having a state officer for Wisconsin FBLA for this upcoming school year, but I also have five other students who have qualified for the National Leadership Conference in Orlando, FL on June 28-July 1.
So I have been arranging transportation, housing, entertainment, and competitive event schedules since the state leadership conference in the middle of April. Several meetings were held before school got out, so I will not count those hours but since school has been out. I have help do fundraising (see older posts) as well as coordinate equipment pick-up for events as well as confirm travel arrangements. So since school has been out for over a week there has been 2 hours of work put into this upcoming trip.
A trip to Orlando, FL sounds like a wonderful vacation! I would agree and I will be doing some fun activities while I am there but I will still be working the entire time and will need to supervise the students on an out-of-state field trip. I will do some separate blog posts about this trip.
So today 2 hours of planning to get ready to go on the trip. Flying out on June 26!
So I have been arranging transportation, housing, entertainment, and competitive event schedules since the state leadership conference in the middle of April. Several meetings were held before school got out, so I will not count those hours but since school has been out. I have help do fundraising (see older posts) as well as coordinate equipment pick-up for events as well as confirm travel arrangements. So since school has been out for over a week there has been 2 hours of work put into this upcoming trip.
A trip to Orlando, FL sounds like a wonderful vacation! I would agree and I will be doing some fun activities while I am there but I will still be working the entire time and will need to supervise the students on an out-of-state field trip. I will do some separate blog posts about this trip.
So today 2 hours of planning to get ready to go on the trip. Flying out on June 26!
Post Brat Fry Wrap Up - Clean up
I wrote before that I had to leave the brat fry early on Saturday because of family commitment, but I also had to leave my vehicle for it to be loaded with all the items borrowed. So now all of this needs to be returned.
The FFA let us borrow their tent. Which was so helpful. Thank you, FFA! I love working with Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO's). Also nesco's, napkins, and carts etc now needs to be unloaded. Because my husband is really busy too, I got a babysitter to watch my youngest son while I got a haircut and unloaded the van. I know you are saying why get a babysitter, well all the items were in my mother-in-law's handicap accessible van, which does not have any spots for children's car seats, so I could not bring my boys with to help me.
This unloading took 1 hour of time. But all I really did was just dump it into my classroom to be organized later.
I still need to put items back into the concession stand and fill the propane tanks from the grill. I need to take care of that prior to my wedding anniversary and the National Leadership Conference for FBLA.
The FFA let us borrow their tent. Which was so helpful. Thank you, FFA! I love working with Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO's). Also nesco's, napkins, and carts etc now needs to be unloaded. Because my husband is really busy too, I got a babysitter to watch my youngest son while I got a haircut and unloaded the van. I know you are saying why get a babysitter, well all the items were in my mother-in-law's handicap accessible van, which does not have any spots for children's car seats, so I could not bring my boys with to help me.
This unloading took 1 hour of time. But all I really did was just dump it into my classroom to be organized later.
I still need to put items back into the concession stand and fill the propane tanks from the grill. I need to take care of that prior to my wedding anniversary and the National Leadership Conference for FBLA.
School Board Presenation
The school board has to approve all out of state field trips and my upcoming trip to Orlando is on the agenda. So I have arranged for all students going to Orlando with me to attend the school board as well as the three presentations to be given at the meeting. This helps to support my department because the board sees a tie between what is being done in the classroom to what students can use in real life.
The meeting that we attend only takes about an hour. We don't stay for the entire portion but the board knows what they are supporting and gets to see students excel in their area.
1 hour
The meeting that we attend only takes about an hour. We don't stay for the entire portion but the board knows what they are supporting and gets to see students excel in their area.
1 hour
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