Teachers Making a Difference Issue 15 October 2023 Halloween Edition

A Colorful Remembrance: Dia de los Muertos Through the Lens of Tradition

Teachers taking Cell Phones from the Kids during Class! Agree or Disagree?

How to Create a Positive Atmosphere for Teacher

Observations:MLE

by Dr Cathy Coker

My Haunted City

Teachers these next three months academically should be the most exciting and fun filled months for you and your students. By using the resources around, you can develop some great STEM activities to keep your kids pleasantly entertained. It might even get them to read more on their own and that is spooky just thinking about it. Create some STEM activities to dispute haunted places in your own city.

I live in San Antonio, Texas where the Battle of the Alamo occurred. I have heard that the Alamo is very haunted. Have your students imagine the cries of the soldiers that can be heard at night. I do not know for sure because I am a scary cat and I will not go to those places, but I bet your students will, with parental permission and guidance.

research itself. Who knows it could also turn out to be a book that needs to get published?

They can do their own investigations to prove or dispute their predictions. This is very little effort on your part to make them do a research paper and they will learn and grow from it as well.

Research is my forte and I will have my students engage in some Halloween haunting stories to examine. Our city is the hub where many battles have been fought around us. Texas is rich in culture that we share from many immigrants that moved to Texas because the land was free or cheap these immigrants brought their own stories with them.

What haunted places does your city have? Teachers do not do all the work yourself have your students help you. Let them do their own research. Use My Haunted City and see what spooky things you can find.

Good luck this month with your haunted research.

This is a great opportunity to have them gain information on their topic of a haunting interest. It is haunting enough to know that they will flock to these places just to see if they are haunted. Who does not like a good, haunting anyway?

Their hypothesis will serve as their propose to prove if the tales that they have heard are true or not true. As a result of their research, they will arrive to some conclusion, a theory, or understanding that will be useful or applicable beyond the

Rivette Pena

Designers:

Rivette Pena

Stephane Bowker

Contributing Photographers and Stock Libraries:

Adobe Stock

Unsplash

Andy Dominguez

Advertisements: Dr. Cathy Coker

Marketing: Alicia Grace

Thank you to Stephane Bowker at Working Dog Resources for providing tailored training for the layout of Teachers Making a Difference.

Five Keys to Successful Tutoring with Vowel Clustering: Part 1

How to Create a Positive Atmosphere for Teacher

Observations:MLE

Halloween in the Classroom

Howl-arious Halloween Hijinks in the Teacher’s Lair

Student Highlight

Kaelyn Marie Hernandez

Curanderismo

Algae: The Future of Protein for Mankind

Five Keys to Successful Tutoring with Vowel Clustering: Part 1

by Elaine Clanton Harpine, Ph. D

Tutoring doesn’t end with summer. As school resumes, many of the children entering the classroom are still struggling to learn to read. Tutoring can be the key to helping a child or teen have a successful year. I present the following suggestions:

1. Focus on the student:  Before you can help a student improve, you must understand what the student needs to learn in order to improve.  You must learn as much as possible about the student you are working with.  What does this student need to be successful in the classroom?  What has caused this student to fail to learn and why?  The “why” is very important.  Then, establish tutoring goals based on the student’s needs.  I taught a 15-year-old, who had failed for 9 years, to read. I was successful because I first tried to understand exactly what the student did and did not know about letter sounds.  Then, I used vowel clustering and taught the student to read.  What works with one student, may not work with another student.  You must individualize your instruction to fit the needs of each student.

be selecting a curriculum that will adjust to the student.  I worked with a young student one year who had been held back in kindergarten. Unfortunately, the student was unable to memorize the required number of words to be promoted to first grade.  With vowel clustering, there is no memorization.  By the end of the year, the student was reading above his age level.  In the tutoring book pictured, I give several examples showing how I adapted vowel clustering to meet the needs of each individual student.

2. Select a teaching curriculum that fits the student’s specific needs.  Select your tutoring curriculum carefully.  I have used vowel clustering for the past 24 years in my work with all ages.  I have worked in both inner city and rural locations.   I have worked with students diagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD, Aspergers, autism, and an array of cognitive processing problems.  Vowel clustering allows me to adjust my tutoring lessons to the specific needs of each student.  This is very important.  Oftentimes, we expect students to adjust to the curriculum.  Instead, we should

For more information on how to adapt vowel clustering to meet the needs of individual students, see: https://www.groupcentered.com/ reading-blog/a-hands-on-project-helps-create-apositive-learning-environment-to-help-studentscorrect-learning-losses-part-5-of-a-series

3. Create a positive learning environment even if you are tutoring online.  A positive learning environment is more than just pretty pictures or motivating quotes.  A positive learning environment is how you teach.  A positive learning environment includes the words you speak, how you talk with your student.  Notice, I did not say how you talk “to” your student.  There is a difference.  Many students do not know how to communicate and interact with others, especially with a tutor.  Communication means trying to understand how and why a person feels as they do.  Intrinsic motivation is better than extrinsic.  Intrinsic is driven by an internal desire to learn.  You want to tap into this internal desire to learn, to improve, to start over.  Offering a candy bar is extrinsic.  It may seem to work at first, but it soon fades, and you are left with failure.  “Do it or else” demands do not work either.  Strive for intrinsic motivators.  I use hands-on learning techniques.

Part 2, continued next month.

If you have questions or need help, please contact me at clantonharpine@hotmail.com

Have a great school year.

Dr. Elaine Clanton Harpine, Ph. D.

For more on using intrinsic motivators, read: Chapter 3, Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic in Group Interventions in Schools: Promoting Mental Health for At-Risk Children and Youth. I even include a hands-on project that works with tutoring.

For more information on intrinsic hands-on motivators (pattern included), see: https://www. groupcentered.com/reading-blog/tutoring-hint7-intrinsic-motivation-is-better-than-extrinsicrewards

A Colorful Remembrance: Dia de los Muertos Through the Lens of Tradition

by E.L. Mendes

Growing up in a traditional Hispanic home, Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, was more than just a holiday; it was a cherished tradition that celebrated life, honored the departed, and filled our home with warmth, love, and vibrant colors. This ancient Mexican holiday, rooted in indigenous beliefs, has always held a special place in my heart, as it offered a unique opportunity to connect with my cultural heritage while paying tribute to loved ones who had passed away.

Origins and Significance:

Dia de los Muertos traces its origins back to the Aztec civilization and has evolved over the centuries to become the colorful and meaningful celebration we know today. At its core, it is a fusion of indigenous beliefs and Catholicism, as it coincides with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, respectively.

The central belief behind Dia de los Muertos is that on these days, the spirits of the deceased return to the world of the living to reunite with their loved ones. Far from being a somber occasion, it is a joyful and vibrant festival that reflects a profound respect for death as an integral part of the human experience.

Altars of Remembrance:

One of the most iconic aspects of Dia de los Muertos is the construction of altars, known as “ofrendas,” in homes and cemeteries. These ofrendas are intricate and meticulously designed, adorned with marigold flowers, candles, incense, sugar skulls, and the favorite foods and possessions of the departed. Each of these elements carries deep symbolism.

• Marigold Flowers: Marigolds are believed to guide the spirits of the deceased back to the world of the living with their vibrant colors and strong scent.

• Candles and Incense: These items serve

as beacons to light the way for the spirits, as well as to purify the atmosphere.

• Sugar Skulls: Calaveras, or sugar skulls, are intricately decorated and inscribed with the names of the deceased. They are a symbol of the sweetness and fragility of life.

death and is often placed on the ofrenda as an offering.

• Atole: This warm and comforting drink made from masa, milk, and spices is served to guests during Dia de los Muertos celebrations. It is a symbol of hospitality and nourishment for both the living and the deceased.

• Favorite Foods and Possessions: Placing the favorite foods, drinks, and belongings of the departed on the altar is a way of offering them comfort and sustenance on their journey back.

Family and Community:

Celebratory Feasts: Food plays a central role in Dia de los Muertos celebrations. Traditional dishes, such as tamales, mole, pan de muerto (bread of the dead), and atole (a warm, thick drink), are prepared with great care and served to family and friends who gather to commemorate their loved ones.

Dia de los Muertos is a deeply communal celebration. Families come together to clean and decorate graves, share stories about their departed loved ones, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It’s a time for reflection, healing, and connecting with one’s roots.

• Tamales: These delicious packets of masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheeses, or vegetables are often wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. They symbolize the unity of the living and the dead.

• Mole: Mole is a rich, complex sauce made from a blend of chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. It is typically served over chicken or turkey and represents the diverse and flavorful aspects of life.

• Pan de Muerto: This sweet, round bread is decorated with bone-shaped pieces and sugar. It is a symbol of the circle of life and

Growing up in a traditional Hispanic home, Dia de los Muertos taught me the importance of honoring the past while celebrating the present. It instilled in me a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of life and death and the richness of our cultural heritage. As I continue to celebrate this beautiful tradition, I am reminded that, in the end, it is love, remembrance, and the bonds we forge with one another that truly transcend the boundaries of life and death, making

Dia De los Muertos

ancestors

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Family

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Remember

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Calacas

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altar

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catrina

papel picado

candle

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ofrenda

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How to Create a Positive Atmosphere for Teacher Observations:MLE

By Gwen Lavert

As a Literacy leader/teacher trainer, I love training and watching leaders and teachers grow. Observing leaders and teachers is a big part of helping them to meet the needs of staff and students. I have a PhD in Leadership, but I learned Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) through the Feuerstein Group in Paris, France from 2004-2007. The Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) allows me to provide a special quality of interaction between me and the leader/teacher. Mediated learning experiences (MLE, Feuerstein et al. 1979) are considered as the proximal factor that explains cognitive modifiability. Cognitive modifiability is defined as the individuals’ propensity to learn from new experiences and learning opportunities and to change one’s own cognitive structures Dr. Reuven Feuerstein’s MLE theory is in some aspects similar to Vygotsky’s (1978) concepts of the zone of proximal development and internalization and the concept of scaffolding. Without scaffolding, many times, teachers struggle with teaching and working with students.

For the process of MLE to be successful, at least four important qualities must be present in the interaction:

Intentionality. The mediator concentrates on understanding and helping the learner to understand how he or she is using his or her brain. The parameters of MLE can be summarized as follows:

Universal Parameters:

1) Intentionality/Reciprocity

2) Transcendence

3) Mediation of Meaning

Situational or Reinforcing Parameters:

1) Mediation of a feeling of competence

2) Mediation of regulation and control of behavior

3) Mediation of sharing behavior

4) Mediation of individuation and psychological differentiation

5) Mediation of goal seeking, goal setting, goal achieving, and goal monitoring behavior

6) Mediation of challenge—the search for novelty and complexity

7) Mediation of the awareness of the human being as a changing entity

8) Mediation of the search for optimistic alternatives

9) Mediation of the feeling of belonging

The chart provides a full description of the four steps of MLE

I have been told from Leaders and Teachers that through this experience, they learn more about themselves; therefore, they can reach their staff and students. It is really life changing!

Component Description Why

Intentionality

Relaying intent of teaching goal. Tell them the target and the reason for the MLE.

(vocabulary)

Teaches and creates awareness.

“Today, we are going to work on special names.”

Meaning Focusing attention on why this goal is important. Help focus attention to important features of the task and ignore unimportant features.

Promotes understanding of why task is important.

“Special names are important because they help us tell other people what things are and help us to communicate clearly.”

Transcendence Bridging of concepts and events beyond the current context; introducing abstract ideas. Examples include questions like, “What would happen if...?” and “Have you ever...?”

Supports hypothetical thinking and carryover.

“Special names he

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Teachers taking Cell Phones from the Kids during Class! Agree or Disagree?

by Pauel Ruez, M.Ed.

“Taking it away” is only one piece to a complex patchwork quilt where the misuse of the phone is a symptom of a societal problem where we now have people of all ages doing whatever they want without consideration to how it impacts others. It should be no surprise when kids model that behavior.

For this challenge and opportunity - Start Here:

1. Write down what has worked for you in the past.

2. Identify district, school, and department policies.

3. See what is working ‘successfully’ for other teachers.

4. Reference Fred Jones Tools for Teaching. https://www.fredjones.com/

5. This is gold - listen while driving to school Parts 1 & 2 Marshall Rosenberg, Phd. A Heart to Heart Talk https://bit.ly/NVC4Educators

6. And… https://bit.ly/Welcome-to-A-NewTMAD see pg 16.

These and or other PROVEN systems need to be embraced from the top down. If your leadership has not made this (and it’s not just the phones) a serious priority, then it needs to happen at the site, department, or at least the teacher level. Identify and do what works.

Some teachers and administrators tell me that they do not have time for “such things” or as one HR director told me, “We don’t have a fit for that

here.” But in the next discussion, the honest ones tell me how time consuming it is to have to keep re-addressing these issues.

Start the year (or whenever you deploy this) with having the students create a Mission Statement and help them get clear on what they are in class for and what an effective learning environment needs to look like. (Ask me for my sample curriculum) Then have them identify 1.) the positive things they have working in their favor. 2.) Next, list the “speed bumps” to achieving these positives.

These young people do know what is happening and they know what is getting in their way: Phones, bullying, little sleep, drugs or alcohol, home violence, etc. This includes the electronics. 3.) Have them list what might be done (The Remedy) to deal with the “speed bumps.” Using TBD for some is fair because all answers may not be immediately clear. Help them circle back and collaboratively replace the TBD’s with real possibilities.

Include in these discussions how to use the cell technology for academic purposes. Most students are very well versed at using Google to find things. Have them find examples of using cells academically. This begins their “buy-in” process. They can also ask friends at other schools who might be using cells appropriately in class. Use an interactive Google doc and have them post findings and sources.

This is an organic process that scaffolds as the situations in the year unfold. For example, how many warnings before the phone is taken?

What earns a reward (more data time at home and something at school) for using the phone appropriately?

Build this into the Student / Parent Learning Agreement. (Ask for my sample)

I know an airline captain who takes a very authoritarian approach to problem solving. In his usual matter-of-fact way, he told me… “Just take their cells away.” This take command MO works with flying an airliner, but facilitating the cooperative involvement of the passengers is (thankfully) not required for successfully flying a plane. But it is required for flying these airplanes we call our classrooms.

Parents find it useful to contract for minimum cell service and let students earn extra data time. Red Pocket and a few other services offer low-cost plans. I pay $99 / year and it works.

I’m just scratching the surface here. You are smart enough to turn this into a very valuable learning opportunity where students gain practical knowledge about creating and using a Mission Statement to set and achieve goals. This is an essential Workplace Goal Setting Skill to be used by both students and parents.

Get creative and be inclusive and fair. Share what works and fix what does not work.

Let me know what works.

An article to look at https://www.newsbreak.com/ news/3169348526443-im-a-high-school-teacherand-my-school-just-banned-cellphones-in-theclassroom-even-the-students-are-happy-aboutit?noAds=1&_f=app_share&s=i3

Paul Ruez, M.Ed.

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Photo Credit: Airline Captain Glenn Steckling

Paul Ruez, M.Ed. RuezArt@gmail.com 442-287-3746

Halloween in the Classroom

by Rivette Pena

Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for teachers to engage their students in creative and educational activities. Here are some tips for teachers to make the most of Halloween in the classroom:

Encourage creative costumes: Allow students to wear costumes to school on Halloween, within any dress code restrictions. You can even have a costume parade or contest to make it more fun.

Incorporate Halloween-themed lessons: Modify your curriculum to include Halloween-themed lessons and activities. For example, you can teach history through the origins of Halloween, math through pumpkin counting and measurement, or literature through spooky stories.

Here are some free ones on Teachers Pay Teachers.

Host a Halloween party: Organize a classroom Halloween party with themed snacks, games, and activities. Consider having a “monster mash” dance or a pumpkin decorating contest.

Decorate the classroom: Create a festive atmosphere by decorating your classroom with Halloween-themed decorations. This can help set the mood and get students excited about the holiday.

Incorporate STEM activities: Use Halloween as an opportunity to engage students in hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities. For example, you can have them design and build haunted houses or create simple machines to perform Halloween-themed tasks.

Here are 31 Days of Halloween STEM Activities and Projects by Steam Powered Family.

Literary activities: Read Halloween-themed books or short stories to your students and engage them in discussions about plot, character development, and symbolism. You can also have them write their own spooky stories or poems.

Community service: Encourage your students to give back to the community by organizing a Halloween-themed charity drive or participating in community clean-up activities after Halloween celebrations.

Art and craft projects: Plan Halloween-themed art and craft projects, such as making paper jacko’-lanterns, creating spooky masks, or decorating sugar cookies with Halloween designs.

Incorporate technology: Use technology to enhance your Halloween lessons. You can show educational Halloween-themed videos or use interactive apps or websites related to the holiday.

Cultural diversity: Emphasize the diversity of Halloween celebrations by exploring different cultural traditions related to the holiday. This can help students develop a broader understanding of the world.

Halloween history lesson: Teach your students about the history and cultural significance of Halloween. Discuss its origins, traditions, and how it is celebrated around the world.

Inclusive celebrations: Ensure that your Halloween celebrations are inclusive of all students, regardless of their cultural or religious backgrounds. Be mindful of potential sensitivities and provide alternative activities for those who do not celebrate Halloween.

Safety lessons: Use Halloween as an opportunity to teach students about safety. Discuss the importance of staying visible while trick-ortreating, checking candy before eating it, and other Halloween safety tips.

Reflection and discussion: After Halloween, have a class discussion about what students enjoyed most and what they learned during the holidaythemed activities. This can help reinforce the educational aspects of the celebration.

Remember to maintain a balance between fun and learning, and always consider the age and preferences of your students when planning Halloween activities in the classroom.

Howl-arious

Halloween Hijinks in tHe teacHer’s lair

On Halloween night, with the moon shining bright, Teachers donned costumes with all their might. In the staff room, they giggled and cackled with glee, Plotting some mischief for all to see.

Ms. Smith, the math whiz, was a wizard so wise, She turned all her textbooks to pumpkin pies. Mr. Johnson, the history buff, oh so sly, Claimed he’d discovered a time-traveling tie.

Principal Brown, in a ghostly disguise, Frightened the janitor with spectral cries. And in the cafeteria, what a wild sight, Lunch ladies danced with werewolves in the night.

The students were puzzled, they scratched their heads, As zombies taught calculus with the living dead. In the end, it was clear, on this spooky scene, Even teachers need Halloween fun in between!

So remember, on this night of eerie delight, Teachers transform into ghouls and take flight. But come the next day, they’ll be back in their rule, With lessons to teach and homework to dole.

Breaking the Silence: Challenging

Male Inexpressibility and Embracing Emotional Well-being

by Santosh Kumar

Introduction:

Society has long perpetuated the notion that men should be strong, stoic, and emotionally restrained. This expectation of male inexpressibility has had profound implications for men’s mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. However, the tide is shifting, and conversations surrounding men’s emotional health are gaining momentum. In this article, we will explore the concept of male inexpressibility, its origins, its impact on individuals and society, and the importance of embracing emotional well-being.

Impact on Individuals and Relationships:

The pressure to conform to expectations of male inexpressibility takes a toll on individuals and their relationships. Men may struggle to recognize, understand, and express their emotions effectively, leading to a sense of emotional isolation. This emotional disconnection can strain intimate relationships, as partners may feel shut out or unable to fully connect with their male counterparts. Moreover, the suppression of emotions can contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and increased stress levels.

The Origins of Male Inexpressibility:

The roots of male inexpressibility can be traced back to traditional gender roles that have been deeply ingrained in society. Men have historically been assigned the role of the provider, protector, and decision-maker, which has perpetuated the belief that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. This societal conditioning often leads men to internalize their emotions, fearing judgment or rejection for deviating from societal norms.

Breaking the Silence:

Recognizing and challenging the societal norms that perpetuate male inexpressibility is crucial for promoting emotional well-being among men. The following approaches can help break the silence:

1. Encouraging Emotional Literacy: Promoting emotional intelligence and providing education on emotional well-being can

empower men to recognize, understand, and express their emotions more effectively. This can be achieved through workshops, support groups, and educational programs that encourage open dialogue.

2. Challenging Stereotypes: Shifting societal perceptions of masculinity requires challenging stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be a man. Men should be encouraged to embrace a broader range of emotions without fear of judgment or ridicule.

down the stigma associated with seeking professional help can empower men to prioritize their emotional well-being.

Embracing Emotional Well-being:

Emotional well-being is vital for leading a fulfilling and balanced life. Embracing emotional expression can lead to healthier relationships, improved mental health, and enhanced overall well-being. Men who are comfortable expressing their emotions can experience increased selfawareness, improved communication skills, and stronger social connections.

3. Fostering Safe Spaces: Creating safe and non-judgmental spaces where men can express their emotions without stigma is crucial. Support groups, counseling services, and online communities can provide platforms for men to share their experiences and seek support from others who can relate.

Conclusion:

4. Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Increasing awareness about mental health issues specific to men and encouraging help-seeking behavior is essential. Breaking

The concept of male inexpressibility has limited men’s emotional freedom for far too long. By challenging traditional gender norms, promoting emotional literacy, and fostering safe spaces for expression, society can break the silence and empower men to embrace their emotions fully. It is time to recognize that emotional well-being knows no gender and that by supporting men’s emotional health, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society for all...

Brown Bagging It

3 Ingredient No

Bake Lemon Cookies

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup (164 g) white chocolate chips

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice + 2 tsp lemon zest from one large lemon

• 1/2 cup (34 g) unsweetened finely shredded coconut)

Directions

1. Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper.

2. Add chocolate chips to a large microwave-safe mixing bowl. Heat chocolate in 15-30 second intervals, stirring in between with a spatula until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. You can also melt the chocolate on the stove using the double boiler method.

3. Add in lemon juice and whisk until lemon juice is fully incorporated and mixture becomes uniform in color and smooth. Adding the lemon juice will initially break up the chocolate but if you continue to whisk, the mixture will become uniform again.

4. Stir in the zest and coconut until they are evenly mixed in. The batter should thicken when you add in the coconut. It will resemble something like a very thick batter and a wet cookie dough. The batter should be thick enough that if you scoop it out with a cookie scoop it will mainly hold its form and won’t spread much.

5. Use a 1 tbsp cookie scoop to scoop up cookie batter and place onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing cookies 2 inches apart. Use the back of a spoon to flatten cookies into a thick round disk (about 1/4 inch thick), smoothing edges and top as needed. Cookies will not change shape so shape them as you would like your final cookies to be.

6. If desired, garnish top of cookies with additional zest. I recommend doing this because it adds more lemon flavor and makes the surface of the cookies look nicer. Place cookies into fridge to set. This can take about one hour. When cookies are set they should feel firm and you should be able to peel the cookies off of the parchment paper. Cookies can be eaten straight out of the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for a softer inside. Store uneaten cookies in the fridge.

7. Enjoy!

Credit: Kirbie’s Cravins

Hispanic Cultural Awareness

What is Curanderismo?

by Dr. Cathy Coker

Curanderismo, is the art of Mexican Folk Healing which comes from the word curar, meaning to heal. Curanderismo is a cultural healing that is practiced by many in the Mexican community like me. I am one of those that still practice curanderismo today. A curandero is either female or male, but they are addressed as follows: a masculine holistic healer is called curandero and a curandera is a female healer.

I grew up incorporating herbs and some form of spiritual healing to gain relief of what ails me. Coming from a strong Hispanic culture prayers and spiritual rituals was our go to for healing anything.

There are many ways to receive our healings from the curandero. It’s their special techniques that makes them special and unique. People that seek their wisdom to cure them of their infirmities know exactly what they need from a curandero/a.

Curanderismo blends religious beliefs, faith, and prayer with the use of herbs, cleansings, and other traditional methods of healing. It is how the curandero/a applies their traditional techniques passed on from former generations that the physical, spiritual, psychological, and social needs of their people are met. No one individual curandero has a cure all for ailments just like our physicians today. Certain prescriptions must be written to fit the ailment. In our culture certain curanderos have their own special individualized healing gifts.

Vicks vapor rub and lemon juice was our go to ointments at my house. If we had stomachaches or colds, we used Vicks on our chest and feet. My mother bathed us in this smelly ointment. Occasionally I open the Vicks bottle to sniff it and reminisce my childhood experiences with this rub. It does make me feel better mentally I suppose because it lifts my spirits up and I can go about my business to complete my daily chores with ease.

Growing up in the westside of San Antonio, Texas

I saw more women curanderas than I did men. I never saw a real doctor that I can remember as a child. We did not need one to heal of scraps or tummy aches. My mom had herbs, prayers, and sugar to heal our aching wounds.

One day my mother was clearing out the dead branches of our fig tree in the patio and found a tarantula. It was dead but I did not know that. My older brother thought it would be funny to spring it upon me to scare me and of course it did. Not because it was a huge hairy spider but because it fell inside my loose-fitting dress that I was wearing on that hot summer day.

I screamed and cried so much that day that the only thing my mother could do was give me some sugar to cure and clam me up from the emotional fright, (susto), I experienced.

Curanderos usually gave out Holy Water to people to remove all the evil spirits from their homes, cars, and places of employment. That usually worked for a while at our home. I quickly found out that bad habits were hard to break with just one cleansing. My mother thought that I was possessed at times because of my bad attitude. She tried to scare the devil out of me, but it did not work. I am still as stubborn as I was in my younger days.

If I were scared or frightened, I would get what the curanderas call a limpiada. A limpiada is a cleansing where the curandera used an egg, with a branch of sweet-smelling herb (hierba buena), that she would dip in holy water and swish on me while she prayed out loud to get Satan out of me. The wetter I left the curandera’s house the better I felt. Mind over matter. Hehehe!!!

Looking back now it was not what the curandera or curandero did that really cured me it was my own belief system in knowing or hoping that they were really working with God that I had faith in what they were doing that cured me of whatever ailed me.

I have had so many eggs broken over, under, and on me growing up that I feel sorry for not having used those eggs for a better purpose I suppose like breakfast. We grew up being quite poor, hence our visits to curanderos than the doctor’s office was what we did regularly. The cuarnderos did not charge as much. Curanderos/as usually asked for a monetary donation and that was what my mom could afford.

I truly believe that whatever they prayed and used on me worked because I believed it would. My faith in healing is still very strong and steadfast that as an adult I rarely see the physician. I rely on my own intuition and most of the time I get over what is making me feel yucky. I do rely on my folk healing and their remedies today. I can usually conjure up a tea or a rub to heal whatever is ailing me.

To this date I still carry a little bottle of holy water to bless my classroom so that I can have a productive day with my students. For now, it looks like it is working.

Algae: The Future of Protein for Mankind

by Santosh Kumar

Introduction

In an ever-changing world where the demand for sustainable and nutritious food sources is growing, algae have emerged as a promising solution to meet these challenges. Algae, a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms, have been quietly evolving into a nutritional powerhouse, offering a sustainable and protein-rich alternative to traditional protein sources. As the world grapples with issues like climate change and food security, algae represent a beacon of hope for the future of protein for mankind.

dry weight, making it one of the most proteindense foods available. It is also rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Spirulina’s sustainable cultivation in ponds and its ability to thrive in brackish water or saltwater environments make it an excellent choice for future protein production.

The Algae Renaissance

Algae have been an essential part of aquatic ecosystems for millions of years, but their potential as a source of protein has only recently gained significant attention. Algae’s rapid growth, high protein content, and low environmental footprint make them an ideal candidate to address the world’s growing protein needs sustainably.

1. Spirulina: Nature’s Green Superfood

One of the most well-known and widely consumed algae for its protein content is Spirulina. This blue-green algae boasts an impressive protein content of up to 70% by

2. Chlorella: The Detoxifying Protein

Chlorella is another green algae that is gaining recognition for its protein-rich profile. With a protein content of around 50%, Chlorella is a fantastic source of plant-based protein. What sets Chlorella apart is its unique ability to aid in detoxification by binding to heavy metals and other toxins in the body. This dual benefit of protein and detoxification potential positions Chlorella as a crucial player in the future of sustainable protein sources.

3. Nori and Dulse: Seaweed Protein

Seaweed, particularly varieties like Nori and Dulse, is not only a delicious addition to sushi but also a protein-rich food source. While seaweed’s protein content may not be as high as Spirulina or Chlorella, it still provides a valuable source of plant-based protein. Additionally, seaweed is a source of essential nutrients like iodine and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a well-rounded food choice.

The Sustainable Future of Algae

As the world’s population continues to grow, finding sustainable sources of protein becomes increasingly critical. Algae represent a sustainable solution to this global challenge. They require minimal land, freshwater, and pesticides, making them an environmentally friendly choice. Algae cultivation can even be integrated into wastewater treatment facilities, further highlighting their potential to address multiple issues simultaneously.

4. Kelp: The Ocean’s Protein Powerhouse

Kelp, a type of brown algae, is another algae variety that holds great promise for the future of protein. It grows rapidly in marine environments and can be cultivated with minimal environmental impact. Kelp’s protein content, while not as high as Spirulina, is still respectable, and it is also a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Its versatility in culinary applications makes it an attractive choice for incorporating into various dishes.

5. Ulva: The Green Sea Lettuce

Ulva, commonly known as sea lettuce, is a green algae that offers a unique source of protein. It’s known for its mild, slightly salty flavor and can be used in salads, soups, or even as a seasoning. While its protein content may not be as high as some other algae species, its potential as a nutritious and sustainable food source should not be overlooked.

Furthermore, algae are a source of protein that does not rely on deforestation or overfishing, both of which have devastating consequences for biodiversity and the planet’s health. As the world moves towards a more plant-based diet to combat climate change and reduce the strain on global resources, algae offer a compelling option to ensure protein availability without compromising sustainability.

Conclusion

Algae, once overlooked, are now recognized as a critical player in the future of protein for mankind. Their impressive protein content, sustainability, and potential to address global challenges make them a valuable food source. Spirulina, Chlorella, seaweed, kelp, and Ulva are just a few examples of the diverse algae species that hold promise for our future health and the health of our planet. As we continue to explore innovative and sustainable food sources, algae stand out as a beacon of hope for a healthier and more sustainable future.

Stay Elevated

by Bobbie Mills,Ed.D

Principals, you know that running a school is a balancing act. Although there are many managerial tasks that demand your attention, one of the most important tasks you have as a principal is serving as the instructional leader to your staff and students.

handle managerial tasks so that you will be able to focus on instruction and be visible in classrooms.

Reflect at the end of each day. Review tasks you completed and write down the percentage of instructional tasks you completed versus the managerial tasks.

Finally, repeat steps 1-4.

Want more tips on how to have more of a focus on instruction? Visit my website at getelevatedvision. com and sign up for a consultation call with me today.

Stay Elevated!

Managerial tasks are important, but if you are not careful, you can find yourself swept up into a vortex of completing an excessive amount of managerial tasks rather than actually focusing on instruction and what is happening inside of the classrooms.

I know every principal wants to give their undivided attention to everything that is thrown his or her way, but the reality is that you cannot do everything and be an effective and efficient instructional leader.

Here are 5 easy tips to help you balance your time so that you can focus on being an effective and efficient instructional leader as opposed to simply being a manager.

Use a calendar to schedule your day and categorize instructional tasksversus managerial tasks.

Set achievable goals for the day.

Empower, train, and delegate other staff to

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