Entiéndase por arrendatario, para los efectos de esta ley, al individuo

Inclusion for “Exceptional Learners”

Presenting Student Author: Danielle Poole Faculty Mentor: James Schul

This article analyzes the nature of inclusion for exceptional learners in public schools. A total of seven professionals were interviewed who all have a variety of experiences in the public-school system of different Midwest school districts. The findings indicate that the interpretation of the term “exceptional learners” varies based off the backgrounds and experiences of the reader. The inclusion of these exceptional learners also greatly varies based off the administration and school districts the professionals work or live. The analysis also indicates that inclusion offers a variety of benefits but an inclusive classroom may not be the best fit for every learner. Implications of this study include the need to advocate for exceptional learners, inclusion, and working to create

environments that work best for each student as an individual.

Teacher Education Professional Attire

Presenting Student Author: Derek Dravis

Other Student Authors: Models: Greer Kosidowski, Sarah Pongratz, Ashley Krohnberg, Brooke Raske, Breanna Raske, Jordan Bruestle, Matthew Wagner, Jacob Hebeisen, Greer Kosidowski

Faculty Mentors: Joan Sax-Bendix and Mary Anderson

As an aspiring teacher the quandary of what to wear in the schools in this day and age is different than even five to ten years ago. The current informal dress code is relaxed attire where the teacher candidates reflect the dress of the students they will be teaching. This informal attire impacts classroom management. Thus, the mission

became: to create and publish a professional attire presentation with the collaboration of students and professors. Dr. Anderson wrote a poem reflecting her perspective on professional dress as a retired school principal. A group of students were invited to work with Dr. Anderson and Dr. Sax-Bendix to publish a WSU Teacher Education

Professional Attire presentation. This presentation has been discussed during previous years informally with the general guidelines adhered to by all in the EEEC Department students during field experiences in the schools. To take this project to the next level, a group of students collaborated to dress in acceptable and unacceptable outfits based on agreed upon criteria. Pictures were taken by another student. The photographer was another student in the program. He took all pictures and is assisting in the visual presentation/power point that will be further published as an audio powerpoint that can be used in department classes and shared within the College of Education as well. The final presentation has been used in EDUC classes to guide conversation regarding professional dress at field experience placements. The use of the presentation in classes this semester has resulted in positive comments from partnering teachers and principals about the professional attitudes and appearance of the students that allows their teacher skills to shine. In fact, when participating in an event with other area

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university teacher education students the Winona State University received accolades from school staff regarding their professional appearance.

What is the Nature of Safety and Security in Public Schools?

Presenting Student Author: Kallie Nelson Faculty Mentor: James Schul

This research investigates the nature of safety and security within the American public school system, with an emphasis upon how those within the school setting are impacted by security measures taken by their school district. Data for this study consist of

interviews of parents, teachers, administrators, and school board members on how they feel their schools handle safety and security and how their school staff is trained for emergency situations within the school system. The findings and implications of this study are provided in the presentation.

The Effects of Social Media on Student Learning

Presenting Student Author: Ellen Palmen Faculty Mentor: James Schul

This paper discusses the effects of the use of social media on students’ learning. The intention of the research is to discern if technology use, such as social media is a benefit or a deficit to students learning. This paper includes research that has been done on students using social media in the classroom. It also includes a series of interview responses from individuals relating to the education background both directly and indirectly. The interviewees consist of teachers, school officials and parents. Surveying the results of the responses in both journal articles and interviews, the

findings are unequivocal. Some research recommended that if social media becomes a distraction for students, that it be used in the classroom by the teacher as a vehicle to communicate with students inside and outside of the classroom. Other research claimed that social media is a distraction for students and will affect students’ learning to

different degrees depending on the ability level of the student. From the interviews conducted in this paper, there were also discrepancies. Some respondents believe social media to be harmful to students’ learning and that it is a distraction from learning. Others claimed that if used properly and with appropriately set parameters it could be beneficial to students’ learning. Based on the findings from research and interviews from individuals directly involved in education or indirectly involved through their own children it can be asserted that social media should be used as a cautionary tool by teachers and monitored by parents. If used appropriately and moderately, for some, technology can be valuable. Nevertheless, for those who do not use it in a suitable manner, social media can be damaging and inhibit learning.

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What is the relationship between students who drop out and their environment?

Presenting Student Author: Sarah Pongratz Faculty Mentor: James Schul

This research examines the school dropout rate, including the impact of low academic achievement and social implications upon those who dropout. Interviews from school professionals and parents highlight the correlation these individuals may see between low academic achievement and social experiences with the dropout rate. In addition to discussing the implications of dropout rates, the research discusses potential solutions to the problem, including ways school professionals may improve the learning

environment. The findings indicate that an engaging and motivating environment will improve the outcome for high risk students to stay on track for graduation. Withdrawal from academic engagement as well as lack of involvement in the school setting are both indicators of school dropout. The research suggests that moving away from a ‘one size fits all’ mentality into a personalized education system will have a positive impact on student success. Excellent schools foster the developmentally responsive environment that high-risk students need in order to continue a trajectory toward excellence.