The Principalship - Week 1

Well, I finished my first week as Principal of Omega Alpha Academy in Douglas, Arizona - what a wonderful experience so far. The teachers, staff and administration of this school remind me why I am in the field of education - it's about the students. There is an extremely high level of this priority at Omega, and it's an honor to be here.

Though I won't be sharing my experiences, per se - I will, undoubtedly, bring up topics on this blog that relate to what I'm seeing in the schools - not just Omega's, but in the other schools and districts that I'll be working with.

As we start a new school year - please let me know what you would like to see on this blog, or even something that you would like to hear on the radio program. I love hearing from you, and really find your suggestions helpful.

Welcome back to school parents, teachers and students!

Thanks for reading,

Alisa

Alisa's Education Talk - the Radio Program - moves to Mondays

Effective today!!!!!

Join me for Alisa's Education Talk on KJLL AM 1330 (Tucson) Mondays from 4:00-5:00. You can hear it live on the web at www.tucsonsjolt.com, or the podcasts (see the link on this page - though, I've been having problems uploading the program, and am working on it diligently, there are still over one years worth of programs to be heard!).

This weeks show will be a hoot. I'm interviewing Joe Gannascoli....you may know him as Vito from the HBO television show, The Sopranos. He is the new national spokesman for Bright Steps Forward

I'll also be interviewing Ms. Debbi Goforth, founder of www.studentsatrisk.com, and author of "Scars of Love, Tears of Hope." She will take us on 'an extraordinary journey into the world of at-risk teenagers and a method of bringing hope and promise into their lives that is so successful that adults everywhere are embracing it.'

If you miss the show today - no worries - I will get it on the podcast as soon as possible.

Thanks for all your support - and, thanks for reading!

Alisa

New Adventures for Alisa

Hello faithful readers;

Thanks to all of you who have inquired on how my summer is going - swell, thanks!

As most of you know, recently Principal Tutoring and Consulting Services, the company I founded five years ago, has joined forces with another quality service provider, forming a new company called 'A Road 2 Learning.'

As excited as I am about the future of the new company, I received an offer today that I just can't refuse....

Omega Alpha Academy (www.oaadouglas.org) has offered me a position as their K-5 principal, and I've accepted, starting immediately (so much work to do, so little time). Not only is this position one that I enjoy, it is an opportunity for me to return to the schools, and have direct contact with students, teachers, and parents - something I've missed very much as Principal Tutoring grew to a size where that type of connection wasn't possible.

Omega Alpha is a Performing Plus (AZ LEARNS) school, who has also met Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP, in accordance to federal guidelines). This is a substantial achievement considering that 65% of its students are English Language Learners! The leadership of the school is focused on students - every decision and every action should ask...."Is this what's best for the students."

As you can tell, I'm SO excited about this opportunity, and feel like I'm 'coming home!'

Now don't you worry, my loyal readers - I will still maintain this blog, my private consulting services, the radio program and other activities that allow me to work even more closely with parents and educators. Your support has been amazing, and I appreciate your commitment to children and their education.

I will keep you posted on my new position, and continue to provide up to date and pertinent information that, I hope, will help enhance your life with children. In the meantime, let me know how you're doing, and let me know what topics you would like to see us discuss on this blog and on the radio.

Take care, and thanks for reading!

Alisa

Happy 4th of July!

Hi everyone!

Well, 'tis the season for teachers/educators to take a little 'vacation,' and I'm no different (hence my slowed activity this month). Have no fear - I'll be back!

In the meantime, my best wishes to all of you for a wonderful and safe 4th of July!

Thanks for reading,

Alisa