A Day Alone

Evie has been off with friends, playing in the mud most of the day. Scott is about to go get her, we are going to make one of our favorite dinners (Chinese steamed buns) and then watch a movie (The World's Fastest Indian).

I have made two skirts from old t-shirts that Evie has outgrown:



I have to thank Amy and her "Bend-The-Rules Sewing™" for giving me the courage. It was WAY fun!

Then I decided to make a Montessori test-tube division set. Evie is struggling with the manipulation of BIG division problems (they come up with money and building things). I used the chop saw and the drill press ALL BY MYSELF! (Scott was very impressed!)




For more info on how to use said materials, click here.

Then I checked the mail and got the Sept. issue of the WPA newsletter. In it I found the following interesting information:

Johns Hopkins University's Center for the Organization of Schools surveyed employers to see "What Employers Want." Turns out they want:

94% dependability
82% proper attitudes
74% ability to get along well with others
65% ability to read
56.5% basic arithmetic
22% ability to read complex materials
10.8% ability to handle complex math

Isn't it interesting that inter/intrapersonal skills rank above academic skills, and fewer than 30% of employers are looking for advanced academic skills.

John Taylor Gatto list the following "Twenty Qualities of an Educated Person." (It is important to note that Gatto says and education can be found anywhere, even in school!)

1. A broadly knowledgeable mind
2. Self confidence
3. A life purpose
4. A touch of class
5. Good leadership skills
6. The ability to work with a team
7. Patience
8. Good public speaking skills
9. Good writing skills
10. Resourcefulness
11. A desire for responsibility
12. Honesty
13. A public spirit
14. The ability to work well alone
15. An eye for details
16. The ability to focus at will
17. Perseverance
18. The ability to handle pressure
19. Curiosity
20. An attractive personal style

Lots to think about. What are you family's goals for education?