Midland ISD Adopts New Technology for Struggling Students

Midland ISD Adopts New Technology for Struggling Students

Midland Independent School District partners with educational software company Imagine Learning as part of an early intervention strategy that will help students master language skills and meet state standards.

Provo, UT (Vocus) October 14, 2010

In Midland, Texas, hundreds of kindergarten through second-grade students have come back from summer break to find a new learning tool in their classrooms. This year, Midland Independent School District has partnered with educational software company Imagine Learning to provide struggling students with access to Imagine Learning English, a language and literacy software program.

Midland administrators identified Imagine Learning English as an accessible and affordable way to provide young English learners and special education students with a highly individualized curriculum.

“Imagine Learning English was designed to benefit the individual student,” said Dianne de Mik, instructional designer for Imagine Learning. “We know that every student is unique and that students will make the greatest gains when their specific needs are addressed directly. Imagine Learning English has been crafted to provide that sort of personalized tutoring.”

Throughout the school year, students who qualify for additional support will spend a recommended twenty minutes a day using Imagine Learning English. The program is part of a response to intervention strategy that Midland administrators anticipate will give students the classroom support they need to build language and literacy skills and meet state standards, all without overburdening teachers or holding back other students.

“These students often have large gaps in their academic language and/or vocabulary. The instructional day does not provide for a direct teaching time to address these deficiencies,” said Nancy Isaacs, director of special education for Midland ISD. “Imagine Learning English can be used to help build these skills during the students’ independent learning time when the teacher is providing instruction to other students.”

Imagine Learning English offers unique technology like multisensory content, adaptive assessment tests, scaffolded support and customizable teacher reports. These features fit well with the district’s strategy to engage students while providing direct and individualized instruction.

“Technology captures the attention of our students and is a positive motivator for them. Technology can be used to provide intervention on an individualized basis in a classroom with many students with many individual academic levels,” said Isaacs.

About Imagine Learning
At Imagine Learning, we’re passionate about bringing language and literacy instruction to the students who need it most. That’s why we used state standards and scientifically based research to develop Imagine Learning English, an innovative software program that uses first-language support, continual assessment and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of four key student populations: English learners, struggling readers, students with disabilitiesand early childhood education students. Imagine Learning English gives students one-on-one instruction, continual assessment, and scaffolded support while keeping teachers abreast of student progress through real-time reports. Visit our website at http://imaginelearning. com to find out how we’re giving students, parents and teachers essential tools for language and literacy development.

###

Atlanta School of Massage Named as One of the Nation's Most Prestigious Massage Schools by USA Today

Atlanta School of Massage Named as One of the Nation's Most Prestigious Massage Schools by USA Today

Atlanta School of Massage is named by Mary Beth Braun, president of the American Massage Therapy Association, as one of the "nation's most prestigious massage schools" in the July 8-10 2005 edition of USA Today's USA Weekend magazine.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) July 27, 2005

Atlanta School of Massage is proud to have been named one of the "nation's most prestigious massage schools" in a recent article in USA Today's, USA Weekend magazine. The article highlights five important things that everyone should know about massage and explains how people in all walks of life are experiencing real benefits from massage therapy.

In the article, Mary Beth Braun, president of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), gives pointers on how to find a good massage therapist. She stresses the importance of verifying that your massage therapist has graduated from an accredited school, is a member of some professional organization and is licensed. She also recommends booking an appointment with a student at a reputable massage school, such as Atlanta School of Massage, because they offer excellent value for money.

Atlanta School of Massage fits the bill when looking for a massage therapy school, massage therapist, or clinic. The school offers an extensive curriculum, combining the most powerful massage techniques into one comprehensive program. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT) and prepares students to take the national certification examination for the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. The student clinic is open to the public and offers exceptional value on massage services.

About the Massage Therapy School (http://www. atlantaschoolofmassage. com/?campaign=jul05) Atlanta School of Massage:

The Atlanta School of Massage, a pioneer and international leader among massage therapy schools, is celebrating 25 successful years in the massage industry. In keeping with their pioneering tradition, they continue to grow their long history of accomplishments:

First Massage Therapy school to open in the state of Georgia First Massage Therapy school in Georgia to be Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT) Named a 2004 School of Distinction by the ACCSCT First Massage Therapy school in Georgia to be approved by the US Department of Education to offer Title IV funding First to partner with Emory University on research into the beneficial effects of neuromuscular therapy on patients with Parkinson's disease The first Massage Therapy school in Georgia to open a skin care division, Atlanta Institute of Aesthetics

Atlanta School of Massage is located at 2 Dunwoody Park, Atlanta Georgia 30338. For more information, call 1-888-276-6277 or visit atlantaschoolofmassage. com. For more information on our skin care division, Atlanta Institute of Aesthetics, visit www. atlantainstituteofaesthetics. com

# # #

Fresh Peace for the Middle East

Fresh Peace for the Middle East

Independent Senate candidate releases a peace plan for Iraq advocating the development of a democracy infrastructure using the Internet, voluntary biometric ID cards, distribution of 10 percent of the oil wealth to participants and creating jobs for Iraqis learning English.

Warren, VT (PRWEB) August 9, 2006

Steven Moyer, an independent candidate for the open U. S. Senate seat in Vermont, has released a proposal for peace, stability and democracy in Iraq. "The strategy we have been following has failed." Moyer said. "We need some out-of-the-box ideas to free us from the trap of a militaristic mentality."

Moyer has been a staunch opponent to the Iraq war from the beginning. "But we have a responsibility to the Iraqi people," said Moyer. "Colin Powell warned President Bush: 'You break it, you bought it.' We bought Iraq. Now we have to pay for it."

Moyer's plan is focused on building a "democracy infrastructure" using an Internet-based database which could be used to identify specific reconstruction needs at the community level. "We need a process for tracking progress towards reconstruction. We need to focus on creating jobs for Iraqis and improving conditions.”

Moyer envisions that any Iraqi would be able to use a community computer to enter tasks which need to be done, from installing a generator at the school, fixing a sewer system leak or repairing potholes in the roads. Each task would have to be evaluated by the Iraqi government and paid for by the United States.

"Eventually, Iraq will be able to pay its own bills. But right now it's our responsibility to re-construct Iraq. The people need to see that we are making their lives better every day.”

Moyer is also calling for an English education jobs program. The current plan calls for us to be in Iraq for ten years. English classes could be conducted remotely, with instructors in the U. S. and students in Iraq using distance learning technology. "Unemployment is at 60 percent. People need jobs and money. Give them jobs teaching and learning English.”

Moyer also suggests distributing 10 percent of the nation's oil wealth to Iraqis who volunteer to get a biometric ID card. This might amount to a dollar or two a day. Moyer suggests that the price of gasoline be raised to 90 cents a gallon from the current 44 cents to offset the revenue loss and discourage pilfering.

"You've got to provide people with their basic needs and an opportunity to do something constructive." said Moyer. "We've been too focused on security. The biometric ID cards will let people self-select themselves as good people. In return for giving the government their fingerprints they may get $30/month.”

The complete proposal entitled "Fresh Peace for the Middle East" can be watched at Google video or downloaded as an mp3 file at Moyer's Senate site. ( http://stevemoyer. us (http://stevemoyer. us))

For more info: Steven Moyer 202-370-6653

###

New Lesson Plans Help Teach Economic History of United States

New Lesson Plans Help Teach Economic History of United States

High school students combine key events and economic reasoning to solve historical mysteries.

New York, NY (PRWEB) June 29, 2006

The National Council on Economic Education (NCEE) announced today the release of the new Focus: Understanding Economics in U. S. History publication (http://store. ncee. net/focus-ushistory. html). With 39 supplemental lesson plans that complement any history textbook, high school teachers now have a new way to seamlessly integrate economics into U. S. history courses.

“Economics is not a stand-alone subject: it is a crucial component of the K-12 curriculum, including U. S. history,” said Robert Duvall, NCEE president and CEO. “These lesson plans allow teachers and students alike to analyze how economics has influenced our past, and how it will impact our future. After using these lessons, students will have a deeper appreciation of American history.”

Teachers use “mysteries” that challenge their students to explore economics in American history. In the role of detectives, students investigate key historic periods and analyze the economic forces that influenced those events. In order to enhance their thinking and reasoning skills, teachers introduce their students to the principles of Economic Reasoning, which gives them a logical framework for approaching problems.

Teachers have a number of resources at their fingertips, including comprehensive lesson plans, background instructional content, student readings, assessments (both multiple choice and essays), and reproducible visuals and activities.

There is also an introductory essay by Douglass C. North, a well-known historian and 1993 Nobel Prize winner in economics. The essay provides an overview of teaching economics in U. S. history courses, and acts as an instructional primer for high school teachers.

Each of the lessons is correlated to the Voluntary National Content Standards in Economics and cover concepts like goods and services, productivity, supply and demand, and opportunity cost. All lessons were developed by an expert in economic education, reviewed by a prominent economic historian, and tested in the classroom with high school students.

About Focus: Understanding Economics in U. S. History

To learn more about Focus: Understanding Economics in U. S. History or to place an order, visit http://store. ncee. net/focus-ushistory. html

About the National Council on Economic Education (NCEE)

The NCEE (http://www. ncee. net) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to improving economic and financial literacy. Both directly and through its unique nationwide network of state Councils and more than 200 university based Centers for Economic Education, NCEE’s programs reach more than 150,000 K-12 teachers and over 15 million students in more than 70,000 schools each year.

Contacts:

Troy White

212-730-1791

# # #

AlzheimerÂ’s Education Conference At Kravis Center to Feature Dr. Peter Rabin and Olga Brunner

AlzheimerÂ’s Education Conference At Kravis Center to Feature Dr. Peter Rabin and Olga Brunner

AlzheimerÂ’s Education Conference At Kravis Center to feature Dr. Peter Rabin and Olga Brunner

(PRWEB) May 11, 2005

Olga Brunner founder of A Good Daughter, Inc., based in Margate, Florida (www. agooddaughter. com), will present at the Kravis Center on May 19th & 20th. The 2005 Alzheimer’s Educational Conference will host only 50 companies to exhibit at this event, including A Good Daughter. Brunner notes, “Palm Beach is one of the most important areas for our services and we are proud to present at this vital event.”

The Kravis Conference keynote speaker is Dr. Peter Rabin, author of “The 36 Hour Day”, a well-known publication within Alzheimer’s circles. Brunner regards Dr. Rabin highly, “His book was initially given to me when I was in a support group as a caregiver to my mother. I highly recommend it to my clients who have taken care of family members with Alzheimer’s Disease”.

The AlzheimerÂ’s Education Conference will address options available to sons and daughters taking care of family members with the condition. Their organization (A Good Daughter) allows family caregivers and the professional care giving community to come together and explore ways to be a more productive member of their loved oneÂ’s care team.

For more information about the conference at the Kravis Center, or A Good Daughter email info@agooddaughter. com or call 800-963-3877.

###

ZIM-Pro: A vision to decentralized instant messaging

ZIM-Pro: A vision to decentralized instant messaging

Zudha Information Technology announces the release of Zudha Instant Messenger (ZIM-Pro) version 1.2, a next generation and secure peer-to-peer instant messaging solution designed specifically for small to medium enterprises and all IM users in general. ZIM-Pro works on Linux, Solaris and Windows operating systems and is freely downloadable at http://zimpro. zudha. com for evaluation

Bangalore, INDIA (PRWEB) November 27, 2003

An effective Instant Messenger enhances enterprise productivity and decision making by enabling fast, secure and real-time communications within an Enterprise.

Zudha's ZIM-Pro is based on Project JXTA http://www. jxta. org (http://www. jxta. org) an Open Peer-to-Peer Architecture enabling users to directly communicate with each other in a distributed network. With decentralized user authentication and message storing, ZIM-Pro provides a cost effective alternative for real-time communication, eliminating the need for maintaining expensive chat servers. ZIM-Pro is capable of working in an Intranet and/or an Internet environment using public or private ZIM-Pro Routers.

The prudent design and ease of use allows users to customize the look and feel by selecting predefined skins, text colors and fonts of their preference. It has additional features such as sharing files during chat session, auto updating of future releases using distributed mechanism which boosts bandwidth saving, automatic storing of chat session messages by date and time and enabling users to view previous messages.

The next version of ZIM-Pro provides wireless connectivity through Java enabled mobile phones to the ZIM Network which will enable mobile employees to connect to their colleagues at office. Audio and Video capabilities will also be added shortly.

ZIM-Basic an earlier release of ZIM is available for free as a Community Edition and soon to be open sourced.

The product is developed by Zudha Information Technology based at Bangalore, India. Zudha is involved in providing tailored software products and services across a broad range of business and user needs.

Zudha believes in customer satisfaction and safeguarding customer investments and therefore is committed to keep updates and upgrades for ZIM-Pro free of charge through out the life of product.

Realizing its social responsibilities, Zudha has considered to waiver license fee for ZIM-Pro for qualifying educational institutions and non-profit organizations under laid down terms agreeable by such institutions.

System requirements

Linux, Solaris, Windows 2000, XP

Processor with 700MHZ and above

128MB RAM and 15MB hard drive space

Fully functional evaluation copy is available at the product website http://zimpro. zudha. com (http://zimpro. zudha. com)

Pricing

2 Users License US$ 11.95

5 Users License US$ 24.95

10 Users License US$ 39.95

ZIM-Pro Router is available for free upon agreeing the terms of use.

For more information contact

Zudha Information Technology Pvt. Ltd,

# 227, 12th Cross,

Wilson Garden,

Bangalore - 560027

India

Fax : 91-80-2214112

Http://www. zudha. com (http://www. zudha. com)

Level the Playing Field with Collections Agencies for Fair Debt Payment

Level the Playing Field with Collections Agencies for Fair Debt Payment

What to do when a debt collector calls.

San Mateo, CA (PRWEB) August 2, 2006

Every year, thousands of consumers wrangle with collections agencies. Some debate debts that haven’t been accurately reported, while others struggle with guilt over past-due payments they are attempting to pay. For either group, Bills. com reports that consumers can take charge of the debt collections process.

Every year, the U. S. Better Business Bureaus (BBB) rank their worst 10 industries by number of consumer complaints received, and collection agencies appear with great regularity. For 2005, collection agencies rank No. 6 on the BBB’s list -- with more complaints than banks, phone companies, credit card issuers and auto repair businesses.

The New York Times recently reported the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received 66,627 complaints against third-party debt collectors during 2005. That number exceeds complaints against any other industry -- and it has increased by six times since 1999.

“The high level of complaints does have a basis,” noted Brad Stroh, chair of Bills. com. “Many collection agencies are notorious for using every tactic in the book to convince people to pay, from phone calls to workplaces and relatives, to threats of legal action, to ignoring repeated requests to be removed from call lists. The worst debt collectors might try to enforce debts that aren’t even real.”

Many consumers do not realize that these tactics often violate federal and/or state laws. Consumers can, however, level the playing field with collectors with knowledge and preparation.

“To combat this intimidating industry, you need to educate yourself. If collectors are calling, learn what to do, and what your choices and rights are,” Stroh said. “If you are in serious debt hardship, know you have options, even in the wake of bankruptcy reform laws enacted last year.”

Consumers can take steps including:

1. Learn the rules – Understand the legal limits of debt collection. The FTC, which enforces the 1977 Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), has an informative Web page at http://www. ftc. gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/fdc. htm (http://www. ftc. gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/fdc. htm). In short: Debt collectors can’t harass or threaten consumers, make false statements, invade debtors’ privacy, or lie.

2. Fight invalid claims – If a collector is demanding payment of a debt you don’t owe, or more than you owe, you can dispute the debt in writing. The formal terms are “debt verification” or “debt validation.” Within five days of first contacting you, the FDCPA requires debt collectors to notify you of your right to validate the debt. You must write to request verification within 30 days of when you are first informed of the debt. Sending your request by certified mail is wise.

3. Keep good records - Keep copies of all collections-related correspondence. Pay debts only after receiving written notice of the amount due. Keep records of all payments.

4. Choose communications routes – Debt collectors may not force you to respond immediately. If they catch you off-guard, ask them to call you back in an hour so you can plan. If they call at work or a relative’s home, tell them you are formally requesting they not call you at that location. You also can write to formally request they cease and desist from contacting you, although this does NOT eliminate any debt you owe. “Be forewarned, however, that this strategy may lead a collector to escalate collections by sending the debt to a law firm,” Stroh added.

5. Report violations - If you believe a debt collector is breaking the law, you can report the collections agency to the Federal Trade Commission and your state Attorney General’s office.

6. Get help - Sites such as Bills. com provide resources, education and tools to understand your financial situation. They also can put you in touch with providers to help if you are struggling with debt – without the hassles and pressure of debt collectors.

“Don’t lose hope or faith in yourself,” Stroh advised. “Even if you’ve fallen behind on bills, remember you are still a valuable person who deserves not to be harassed. And know that many people have paid their way out of debt. Any debt repayment takes time, and debt collectors must understand and respect that basic requirement of collections.”

Based in San Mateo, Calif., Bills. com is a free one-stop online portal where consumers can educate themselves about complex personal finance issues and save money by choosing the best-value products and services. Since 2002, Bills. com’s partner company, Freedom Financial Network, has provided consumer debt resolution services, serving more than 7,500 customers nationwide and managing more than $250 million in consumer debt. The company’s co-founders and CEOs, Andrew Housser and Brad Stroh, were recently named Northern California finalists in Ernst & Young’s 2006 Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

# # #