Mr. Cleland's BLOG

How Can I Demonstrate That Education Is a Priority?

2009-10-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

-Support the teacher as well as the student
-Attendance
-Go to the Library
-Parents going to work on time to set an example
-Show that finishing school is a reward that leads to greater opportunities
-Lead by example
-Follow through with what teachers ask you to do at home
-Check their homework

How Can I Help My Child to Succeed?

2009-10-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

-Always speak positively and respectfully
-Model things before doing
-Stay in touch with teachers
-Celebrate successes - dinner out, outfit from store
-Demonstrate life-long learning
-Participate with them in school and out
-Expose them to culture

I "Buy Into" the Telesis Philosophy!

2009-10-19T10:34:00.000-07:00

I choose to teach at Telesis because I agree with its private school philosophy, which includes small class-sizes, allowing for more-highly individualized instruction, and an emphasis on "progress" (in addition to grades). Telesis's participation in the Character First Program, and the creative approach and cheerful collaboration of Telesis teachers, support personnel, administrators, and students makes Telesis a true Professinal Learning Community.

"The Telesis Triangle"

2009-09-10T09:56:00.000-07:00

At the top of the triangle is the STUDENT. He or she is supported by both the TEACHER and the PARENT at the base of the triangle, who work in partnership to help the student succeed. It is imperative that teachers be prepared every day, present meaningful lessons via the curriculum and aligned with state standards, and treat students with respect. It is imperative that parents ensure the student's regular attendance at school, and reinforce both school-appropriate behavior and consistent classroom performance. It is the student's responsibility to show up at school every day, treat others as he or she would like to be treated, and put forth his or her best effort every day!

Welcome to Jr. Academy & Academy English and J.A. World Geography!

2008-10-15T17:43:00.000-07:00

Lessons are designed to pique the interest of students (while meeting AZ State Standards) and encourage them to become self-motivated learners. Points are accumulated for classwork, homework, quizzes, tests, compositions (including essays in Criterion), projects, and participation. This year my English classes are working in the "MySkillsTutor" and "Criterion Online Writing Evaluation" programs, both of which are great motivators which allow kids to work at their own pace, with no limitations. All students receive points daily for class participation and are encouraged to exhibit good Character First Traits while participating in the Telesis Professional Learning Community and cooperating/collaborating with peers and teachers in an on-going basis. I buy into this system and it works!

Make-up Work:

2008-10-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

Daily assignments are posted in the classroom. It is the student's responsibility, upon returning from an absence, to get all missed assignments and turn them in promptly. A students has as many days as he or she was absent to turn in missed assignments. In the event of an extended absence, a request for missed work may be made by emailing Mr. Cleland at mcleland@telesis-academy.org. Arrangements to pick up necessary handouts, etc. may also be made via email.

HOW do I improve my schoolwork?

2008-09-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

Here's HOW:

H - Honesty. Ask yourself: Am I putting forth my best effort? Am I prepared for tests and projects?

O - Open-mindedness. Ask yourself: Do I have a good attitude? Am I judging the value of the class/subject matter fairly?

W - Willingness. Ask yourself: Am I willing to work hard? Am I trying my hardest to get along with others?