A song a day

Hi

This is a cute blog. Mary Stewart is trying to write a song a day. She is up to number 286. Although not directly related to education I can see some possible applications, like maybe a class projects trying to write a song per day (or per week). Or perhaps simply challenging students to come up with their own blog ideas.


http://cupcakerecord-asongaday.blogspot.com/

If you think a high school education is not important, read this CNN article about how factories in the U.S. can't seem to get enough "qualified" workers.

"The problem, the companies say, is a mismatch between the kind of skilled workers needed and the ranks of the unemployed."

"Now they are looking to hire people who can operate sophisticated computerized machinery, follow complex blueprints and demonstrate higher math proficiency than was previously required of the typical assembly line worker."

http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/07/06/frum.skills.mismatch/index.html?hpt=C2

Similarly in Alberta, large numbers of jobs on the rigs, attract young people away from the classroom. However as large oil companies become more automated, those who lack an education will likely find themselves unemployed.

It never hurts to have a high school diploma but it may hurt to drop out early. Its worth the effort.

Later start to the school day good for teens

For those interested in improving high school results ... perhaps its time to try something completely different.

http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2010/07/06/teen-school-start.html

Young people improve communities

The contributions that young people make to our society often go unrewarded. Children contribute many hours of volunteer hours through 4H, church and other organizations. Young people make a huge impact on the quality of a community. A girl from Bonnyville was one of 8 recipients recipients of Queen Elizabeth II Citizenship Medals, awarded on Monday at Government House by Lt.-Gov. Donald Ethell.

"Alexandra Wagner, Bonnyville -- part of her school's Young Adopters program, she raised money for projects for children in developing countries;"

Read more: http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Young+Albertans+make+difference/3239984/story.html#ixzz0sum2ZrAa

These are but a few examples of Albertan youth making a difference. I am sure everyone can think of many more local examples as well.