Earl K's Work

Switchboard is part of Treasury where we are asked many diverse questions. We share EGOS catalogs, and other written data, plus outstanding customer service. We take all necessary time to answer any questions.

On switchboard, the vast majority of questions are answered orally, we must know school services ecpertly and answer any questions patiently. We place ourselves in teh callers shoes all the time.

In addition, I pass out school info, in my parish congreation regularly as well as leave catalogues in the exectutive staff of other organizations.

Scott H's Class

The ESL department offers one hour of conversation from 11:00 to 12:00 to students who want an opportunity to practice speaking. The group meets four days a week to discuss a variety of issues and topics according to the needs of the students. It is also a time for students to share "needs and wants" with the group. Throughout these group meetings, students build trust with each other as well as gain confidence in their speaking abilities. Students volunteer to be the facilitator for the group from time to time. As a facilitator, a student chooses a topic for discussion and encourages each member of the group to contribute. Some topics have included; ways to improve English, presentations about each students' country, how to find a job, natural medicine, exotic foods, cultural differences, etc.

Sharon S's class

The Barber Shop brings students presently enrolled to shops where our barbers are working , they give out cards from Emily Griffith Opportunity School, and as that they will pass the information on to those who wish to become barbers, but also inform them about other programs in the school

Michael K's Floral Class

In the Floral Design Program , the students visit all types of the floral business, also P R ing to all these places, helping to get information about the school and placement for internships.

Judy C's work

1. The first day of class I have each student share with the class: hobbies, pets, children, where they have lived, goals for the class, area of town they live so they could carpool, other jobs- specially in the health field. Explain that I want them to pair up with one other student so if one is absent they will collect handouts and take notes to give them on their return. I read the Goose-poem how one flies ahead and helps the others- if one drops out one goes to check on them. We have graduation so they can bring family and friends and see each others children. They exchange phone numbers to keep in touch..

2. I have them make a collage of things that make them happy or dreams for the future and they have to show and explain these to the class. I use a piece of construction paper so then some put these in the front of their notebooks to look at throughout the program. I also got the idea from Nick to have them share one happy-good thing that happened since we last met- sets a positive tone for the class.

Chris F's work

For social networking in my classroom, I have students entering all year long, as my class in open entry/open exit. I make sure to introduce the new student to everyone. I also try to introduce students to each other who are at appoximately the same place in my course. Towards the end of the course, I try to encourage students to hook up with study buddies to prepare for the certification test they have to take. I invite former graduates to come and speak with students and answer questions. I arrange for speakers to come in and speak with the students. Two weeks ago, many of my students and I went to see the Anatomy in Motion exhibit together. At least once a year, I arrange for alumni and current students to meet for breakfast at a Country Buffet. It is an opportunity for students to meet with grads and ask questions about jobs and tests, etc., in addition to getting to know one another. Even though my class is an online class, my students are required to attend at least once a week for 2 hours. During that time, I encourage conversation about anything medical in the news (like - how about that woman who just had octoplets and it turns out she already had SIX kids at home, is unmarried and lives with her parents!!!!!!); how to stay disciplined when working online at home, fitting in schoolwork around jobs, kids, life; setting up home offices to work at home, etc.

What are we already doing?

During our first meeting we realized while discussing social networking that many of the people present were very passionate about our student populations and do a lot of “social network activities” in the course of trying to provide the best educational experience for our students. Highlights include:

· Getting together in a circle on first day of class and exchanging personal information such as phone numbers, babysitter information and carpooling.

· The Opportunity Extra by Sally Bertoli.

· The Floral Department goes on field trips to visit former students and other job sites.

We also had some ideas we all had to improve social networking around the school.

· Adopt a Bulletin Board Program: The bulletin board space at EGOS is often empty or not updated regularly. Bulletin boards should be used by different departments. The information should generate conversation, be interesting, provide information.

· Create Student Bulletin Board in student break room. Students should have their own bulletin board where they can post items that don’t need approval or date stamp etc.

· Tell everyone about the Free Box located on the south side of the building, on the first floor under the stairwell. Students and teachers can bring in their stuff and take stuff, too. This is already happening on an “informal” basis.

· Get more participation for Opportunity Extra. Currently organized by Sally, submissions from teachers, students and staff increase participation and membership in the school. Anyone who wants to add something can submit to Sally at any time.