tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88314938318486612632011-10-14T12:53:40.658-05:00Traveling down the road of life...learning and sharing with others globallyvanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.comBlogger921100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-11704168221356671832011-10-14T12:53:00.000-05:002011-10-14T12:53:40.694-05:00

To our students and teachers…. How technology will help you…. Computers and mobile devices are making their way into every nook and cranny of the world. When you grow up and pursue jobs, employers will look at your tech skills and talents. Just as a good books have a way of hooking readers on page one, a good tech tool has a way of hooking one’s interest, too! If an educational activity

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-9037514229260099932011-08-21T11:46:00.001-05:002011-08-21T11:46:33.192-05:00

Iowa State Fair 2011, a set on Flickr.The year of the butter cow, sculpture designing, bag tossing, wine stomping, corn eating, music rocking, flower growing, fireworks shooting, animal raising, people watching, weather enjoying, gourmet fair food eating, attendance building, money spending, and having fun!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-87772914874317015342011-07-18T13:00:00.001-05:002011-07-18T13:00:01.523-05:00

OxidationOriginally uploaded by Carol VanHookAh yes, so true.... "You English words? I know you: You are light as dreams, Tough as oak, Precious as gold, As poppies and corn, Or an old cloak: Sweet as our birds To the ear, As the burnet rose In the heat Of Midsummer" — Edward Thomas Goodreads Quote

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-35123515826567605462011-07-15T12:34:00.001-05:002011-07-15T12:36:21.906-05:00

A Four-Mile Power Walk Keeping up with the latest and greatest changes in Animoto. Also, I will enjoy watching this in the Winter months and maybe get inspired to take a photo walk on the sidewalks of my hometown in Iowa!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-4566440641446792122011-04-10T12:23:00.008-05:002011-04-10T12:49:30.984-05:00

Just another example of using multiple resources on the Internet to make learning exciting, dynamic and meaningful. Lifelong learners won't be able to stop reading. Tools used: Google News, Google Search, Joliprint, Tagxedo, Blogger / Blogspot, more Google Searching, and a Website Validation Wizard produced by Illinois Educational Grant Project. Take a look: Here is the original article at the

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-1106579979786556822011-04-08T17:51:00.000-05:002011-04-08T17:51:47.429-05:00

Article about Libraries in the Future Click on any word in this cloud and find read more on the Internet.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-80987456763414564752011-04-08T17:13:00.003-05:002011-04-08T17:22:44.125-05:00

This is a compilation of 85 adults and young adults when asked their favorite Seuss book. And yours?

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-34610754911270898552011-03-06T18:56:00.000-06:002011-03-06T18:56:48.074-06:00

http://www.tagxedo.com/art/f9462f2a8df9457c>Check Up on Web2.0

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-16620248069494411812011-03-06T16:25:00.001-06:002011-03-06T16:25:21.355-06:00

Loving Some Green Eggs and HamOriginally uploaded by vanhookcIn five days, I will be presenting Web2.0 tools to a group of educators. I have had a good time putting this project together. It is amazing when a person prepares to present, what a person can learn! Combination use of many web2.0 tools...(1) Answer Garden posed the question "What is your favorite Dr. Seuss book?" (2) The resulting

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-4274801737748060302011-02-28T17:19:00.001-06:002011-02-28T17:21:39.905-06:00

This is a very nice definition of Web2.0. There are other videos at this Channel for teachers and students.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-44961701619481924132011-01-24T18:26:00.007-06:002011-01-24T19:50:10.333-06:00

It has been a busy school year and a good one for Book Club members! But there is more to come. First of all, thank you to all the Book Club workers that came out to run the concession stand in January. We had a great crowd and earned the final amount to provide a scholarship to a graduating senior. Congratulations, the Book Club will have awarded $2500 in scholarships over a four-year period, as

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-84531198244035040082010-11-24T21:25:00.001-06:002010-11-24T21:25:50.015-06:00

Granny's dumplingsOriginally uploaded by vanhookcHappy Thanksgiving!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-63273310667469138382010-04-28T23:09:00.001-05:002010-04-28T23:09:04.385-05:00

Apr. 27 - EnergyOriginally uploaded by vanhookc

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-7023495102363027912010-04-03T12:15:00.001-05:002010-04-03T12:15:31.932-05:00

A Fashionable Cellpone!Originally uploaded by vanhookc

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-56053693522137755512010-02-28T14:03:00.005-06:002010-02-28T14:26:28.629-06:00

This is a cool tool on the Internet. First, I made the video and uploaded to youtube. Through a link to youtube, I have been able to annotate the video with helpful notes and links in a tool called VideoANT from the University of Minnesota.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-6726477048851978632009-11-30T21:56:00.001-06:002009-11-30T21:56:59.739-06:00

Nov. 30 - A Day in a WheelchairOriginally uploaded by vanhookcA teacher in our school has adopted “A Day in a Wheelchair” and is providing a couple of wheelchairs per day for staff and later, students, to “break from comfortable routine, the courage to act, the courage to be an agent of change, and a leader in our community….”I had the privilege today. And I share my experiences. But first, I

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-69195497762390914332009-11-15T12:07:00.001-06:002009-11-15T12:07:20.235-06:00

study world culutreOriginally uploaded by vanhookcInternational Education Week Celebration of World Culutes...coming soon...to a high school library....Monday, Nov. 16, 2009...students wrote these collective thoughts as ticket to come...will hear exchange students speak...special guests from across Central Iowa coming...International Feast of Foods for all...should be fun???Source:

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-5206689135672037952009-10-13T11:00:00.001-05:002009-10-13T11:00:08.462-05:00

Oct. 12, 2009 - Tools of the PresenterOriginally uploaded by vanhookcWE are live with IOwa Educators! These fine teachers are learning how to take our students into the 21st Century and be lifelong learners.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-41102275092919487172009-09-24T09:44:00.001-05:002009-09-24T09:44:59.022-05:00

Sept. 21, 2009 - Strength in LettersOriginally uploaded by vanhookcI am working with a fine group of teachers learning about using online tools in the classroom. Thank you for your attention.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-44706585875339664032009-09-20T14:05:00.001-05:002009-09-20T14:05:22.665-05:00

OriginsOriginally uploaded by vanhookcOriginsWhere I am Fromby C. VanHookI am from stately old pecans treessupporting wheel barrow tree housesI am from the afternoon jingleof the ice cream man strolling down the laneI am from amusement parks and hula dancing in the streets with cousins at Grandma and Pa’sMy bank account is filled with memories of shiny white bush-coins that made me rich in play I

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-18845808370684292952009-09-20T08:46:00.001-05:002009-09-20T08:46:49.959-05:00

Connecting in EducationOriginally uploaded by vanhookcI wonder how education has changed. Our elders were happy learners in their day and time. The stories passed down through the ages tell us so.The baby boomers had it pretty good in the classroom, too! Class reunions reveal some pretty happy, successful, educated learners!Today's classroom has rapidly turned global and digital. 21st

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-89111979647571164232009-09-13T17:30:00.002-05:002009-09-13T17:32:24.869-05:00

A New School Offers Welcome GroundsOriginally uploaded by vanhookcWhat a rewarding feeling to have such a fine group of students support their cause. Indeed these kids geek the library and book club! Take a few games, a little meeting time as a group, pizza and pop, and some music and karaoke for a high school Book Club to have a blast. The most important piece of this puzzle? Answer:

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-30299600419727865622009-09-11T19:11:00.002-05:002009-09-11T19:17:06.602-05:00

Sept. 9, 2009 - Ribbon Cutting CeremonyOriginally uploaded by vanhookcOn the 12th day of the new school year, in our brand new high school, the Library opened its Around the Corner Cafe. We had a late start for students so teachers could have inservice, but many students eagerly came an hour early. These students lined up at the cafe to be apart of this grand opening. Quickly, we decided to have

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-25144053878264083352009-07-16T23:10:00.001-05:002009-07-16T23:10:41.613-05:00

Bright, Shiny, and Rusty!Originally uploaded by vanhookcPolk Co. 4-Hers are very creative. Loved this display! What a great use of an old rusty wheel! I am so glad to see 4-H has strong support in Iowa and hope it does as well in all states of the USA.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-45784893826604729342009-07-13T23:17:00.003-05:002009-07-16T13:53:07.648-05:00

Books panoramaSource: flickr- highlight and annotateLove this picture. I borrowed it from a flickr member, as it has Creative Commons permission!This post is to share with you great book suggestions from my PLN contacts. What a powerful list, and the contributors shared within a 12 hour period. Obviously, from the looks of this list, these are powerful readers. Thank you for sharing:New Amsterdam

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-87729307331245516402009-07-13T17:40:00.004-05:002009-07-14T08:47:55.671-05:00

Originally uploaded by vanhookcThanks, friends in my PLN! You have shared many great blog suggestions on just about every topic!For a little humor –Wondermark, Unshelved, Shelf CheckFor a glimpse of images—Less OrdinaryFor life style tips – Life Hack, UncluttererFor fun – Cake WrecksFor quotes – QuoteflectionsGlobal following -- Spring of Hope (http://springofhopeuganda.blogspot.com/2009/07/

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-61501800749185575362009-07-13T11:20:00.002-05:002009-07-13T11:28:29.833-05:00

Hometown SpectacularOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis entry will share the spectacular suggestions by a few of my contacts in my PLN! Thank you!What a great list of educational resources. I see there are so many educators reading materials this summer in preparation to better serve our youth!Hope you find some resources here that will be of interest:The ElementWhy Don't Students Like

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-40172079885953766312009-07-05T23:11:00.001-05:002009-07-05T23:11:21.276-05:00

Creative ThinkingOriginally uploaded by vanhookcBe confident! Individualism rocks!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-62404280646428070872009-06-24T23:15:00.001-05:002009-06-24T23:15:17.894-05:00

Kayaking in Bradenton!Originally uploaded by vanhookcTry something new! You'll be glad you did! I was nervous to try this but had an absolutely wonderful time!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-60302844559655996982009-06-18T14:03:00.001-05:002009-06-18T14:03:14.674-05:00

Day 166 -- Happy on Vacation!Originally uploaded by vanhookcEnjoying Florida, Carol's parents, our son Rob and family, new friends, and the good times that Florida has to offer!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-84255812155582220372009-05-26T21:57:00.001-05:002009-05-26T21:57:08.456-05:00

Brick WallsOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis is an incredible story. Randy Pausch had such an incredible view on life. His words of wisdom will live forever!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-59631289607582380702009-05-23T23:25:00.001-05:002009-05-23T23:25:48.689-05:00

Sailing on to New AdventuresOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis puzzle marks the last one done that will be completed in the old SE Polk High School Library. During my six years as Teacher Librarian in this old high school, I have enjoyed watching students and staff share a passion for doing puzzles.Rarely has a piece been lost (ironically, someone tampered with this one but the true puzzle

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-75973810042171300472009-05-12T22:01:00.001-05:002009-05-12T22:01:24.846-05:00

Day 132 -- Makes a Mom and Dad ProudOriginally uploaded by vanhookcCongratulations to the two of you. How ironic that our youngest are both stepping out into new adventures on the exact same day!Sarah, you are to be commended as you achieve a Masters of Social Work tomorrow from Iowa. You have blossomed during this Master's Program. We see an earth shaking gal here that brings so much sunshine to

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-55625948677448286812009-05-05T22:22:00.005-05:002009-05-06T15:44:44.470-05:00

Day 123 -- Be an IndividualOriginally uploaded by vanhookcTogether these make a beautiful bed of tulips, but do you see the individuality of each?So is life. We each have an important role to play in the big scheme of things on earth!And so...I wondered what the Internet has to say about being an individual. Believe or not, there is a wiki how-to-do manual with an article on How to Be an

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-85135762080965537112009-04-18T10:33:00.004-05:002009-05-06T15:47:46.260-05:00

Day 103 -- Go for It, Cowboy Sweetheart!Originally uploaded by congratulations Congratulations, Sarah! You have a voice and a half!And look...you hit the Youtube scene! You may be an Iowan girl, but you are also a little Tennessee hillbilly!http://www.youtube.com/vanhook01

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-25137215569996701902009-04-18T09:20:00.001-05:002009-04-18T09:20:19.056-05:00

Day 105 -- Rippling in the WindOriginally uploaded by vanhookcIt's refreshing to watch Ol' Glory rippling in the wind in the springtime! There's a sound of determination in its mission!Have you ever thought about how often these flags fray and need replacing due to the wind? Watch those flags and keep them in tip-top shape. It shows a sign of respect!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-52449621251309762592009-04-04T21:30:00.001-05:002009-04-04T21:30:40.514-05:00

Strength in Making Connections!Originally uploaded by vanhookcWorking together as a team gets the job done so much more efficiently!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-74586525797035896252009-03-30T21:45:00.001-05:002009-03-30T21:45:48.121-05:00

Is that a hat?Originally uploaded by vanhookc"We especially need imagination in science. It is not all mathematics, nor all logic, but it is somewhat beauty and poetry." -Maria MontessoriThis is how creative thinking works. When one looks at things freely and imaginatively, no telling what can be created. So seeing a brown hat, in many shades of brown, with a grey band makes a fun thought. Or

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-58242870173258429092009-03-26T21:57:00.003-05:002009-03-26T22:00:38.142-05:00

84 / 365 -- Beauty in the Eyes of the BeholderOriginally uploaded by vanhookcDriving parallel to I-80 along a bumpy gravel road, this caught my attention. What odd beauty - an intertwined mixture of barb wire, stumps, and prairie grass.The camera allows a person to look beyond facts, definitions, and what is real. Yes, in reality, this is an old stump, rusty wires, mixed with last year's growth

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-13857384625831384142009-03-22T15:13:00.003-05:002009-03-22T15:19:15.374-05:00

48 StarsOriginally uploaded by vanhookcHere's my set of suggested guidelines to being a communitarian on the Web. The world flattened with the onset of Internet authoring tools. A new global spirit has emerged. So, when you author to the web follow these guidelines:1. Evaluate the website you plan to contribute content. Validate its authenticity and determine its purpose. Is it to educate,

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-10202670056258719502009-03-08T16:42:00.001-05:002009-03-08T16:42:46.363-05:00

Reflections of TimeOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThe golden moments in the stream of life rush past us, and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone. ~ George Eliot Take time to reflect on those rich golden moments you have experienced in the past few days. Have you felt like the angels have been watching over you?The time changed today!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-51427816346842023382009-03-03T16:42:00.001-06:002009-03-03T16:42:13.103-06:00

This week is Read Across America Week. The teens in the high school book club are reading to the grade school children. At the same time, we are inviting the teachers and students to do an online global book with us. We are excited to see what global tales we get back from students.Tales Of Global TravelView more presentations from vanhookc. (tags: collaborative sharing classroom)

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-78996659835463105882009-02-28T11:13:00.003-06:002009-02-28T11:18:48.428-06:00

Hope February 2009 has been good for you. Here is a glimpse into these days in my life.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-47863525411508877212009-02-19T21:11:00.002-06:002009-02-24T14:23:01.954-06:00

Hear the train a coming?Originally uploaded by vanhookcI'd like to hop on a train with my camera and travel across America, snapping some shots along the way!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-71502985905697613882009-02-17T14:42:00.003-06:002009-02-17T14:45:28.254-06:00

For sure, this nest was home to little birds last year, but just spotting it for the first time makes me feel that spring is in the air! It's funny how these little things are right there before our very eyes. The camera has allowed me to see the little buds on this tree, as well. We are ready at this time of winter for a rebirth in our surroundings. Yet, daily, we should awaken with that same

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-32516315722952744422009-02-14T12:41:00.001-06:002009-02-14T12:41:34.979-06:00

44/365 -- 4 way GO (2 hands + 2 shovels)Originally uploaded by vanhookcThis is just the cutest thing I have seen this winter. The little boy has so much energy and excitement over a job to do. Wait, aren't these sidewalks already cleared? He doesn't care. He's just busy and has a job to do! And that's wonderful. He's out there enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, getting a little exercise pushing

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-22355005947533605242009-02-14T10:31:00.001-06:002009-02-14T10:31:11.297-06:00

ValentinesOriginally uploaded by vanhookcHappy Valentines Day, family and friends!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-78950335559309767502009-02-08T13:19:00.004-06:002009-02-08T13:26:19.456-06:00

This will warm your hearts!Southeast Polk & Des Moines Independent Schools, Mrs. Duden and Mr. Strozewski (staff), what a wonderful event! The kindness was overwhelming in this gymnasium!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-90309117528255204802009-02-08T11:55:00.004-06:002009-02-08T11:59:40.632-06:00

In any task you wish to tackle in life, create a blueprint, timeline, or set of goals. You'll save time and reach higher levels of success in the long run.This beautiful design was created twice! Once on a paper scale and then glued on the real thing! Quite a successful project, heh?A+++ work!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-30326871334059949712009-02-01T15:38:00.001-06:002009-02-01T15:38:01.569-06:00

Good Goals for LifeOriginally uploaded by vanhookcSmile, dream, laugh...good goals to practice in February, well, every day!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-25216951742733571862009-02-01T11:41:00.004-06:002009-02-01T11:45:24.899-06:00

Reflections on Jan. '09 A CNN journalist reported January as a brutal month, speaking in terms of economy as well as weather, global issues, etc. Of course, we had a historical inauguration that offers great hope. Here, too, is my reflection on the good things that happened in 20099! No, real brutality here. Even with the chilly temps, there was beauty to behold!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-13368493014289961372009-01-24T09:53:00.003-06:002009-01-24T09:58:34.411-06:00

A Look at the 21st Century TeenOriginally uploaded by vanhookcHey, teens!We've come a long ways! Just think what your kids are going to think about your archival means of communication, entertainment, etc. as depicted in this pic...the iTouch and the fancy cellphones. What's to come in the future?This TV screen, you might imagine, possibly could look like a sci-fi movie if it were being viewed

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-50267569109740401782009-01-20T20:25:00.002-06:002009-01-20T20:27:50.575-06:00

20/365 -- A Day in History for these TeensOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThese students are watching history unfold before their very eyes, via CNN over the Internet! Off in the background is a cable TV showing the inauguration for more viewers. And beyond the edges of this picture is the computer lab, with another live streaming of the inauguration. The library was packed and lively!What a joy

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-15400166336024834762009-01-17T11:57:00.004-06:002009-01-17T12:08:22.974-06:00

Pic*Lits is a fun web2.0 tool that gets you thinking about important words!And so, I look forward to sharing it with our students!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-53933557678478410402009-01-06T21:46:00.012-06:002009-01-08T06:36:33.718-06:00

Butterflies EverywhereOriginally uploaded by vanhookc I have been tagged by Grace Kat (gkat) to be a part of meme that is going around cyberspace at the moment.The idea is to get to know each other better. When tagged,* link to those who tagged you,* post 7 things you have never told your PLN and* tag another 7 people.What might you like to know about me? Hmm...1. I have taught 7 years of

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-33985260560265866062009-01-06T19:47:00.003-06:002009-01-06T19:47:25.211-06:00

6/365 Jan 6, 2009: A New Dawn at Our SchoolOriginally uploaded by vanhookcEvery day has much to offer. However, today is extra special. This picture depicts a new dawn, a first day back for our high school students, a new semester. Our students will have many new classes as they begin this second semester. There will be new friends, new teachers, and new routes to take to new classrooms and new

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-33193383257667535412009-01-03T16:18:00.001-06:002009-01-03T16:18:14.948-06:00

FYIOriginally uploaded by vanhookcTroy, this is for you...The students were very antsy the last week of school before Christmas Break. The library was packed with students. This should be a good thing but they were not necessarily there for all the right reasons. The library, you see, has lots of computers...and computers connect to the Internet...and to the games.So, I was a little perturbed

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-56798331701754723442009-01-01T21:56:00.001-06:002009-01-01T21:56:18.525-06:00

My, How Time Flies!Originally uploaded by vanhookcHappy New Year!My New Year's Resolutions:healthier livingclean the clutterlearn my cameralove, world peace, and harmony We had a wonderful time ushering in the New Year with family and friends! January 1 has been a bit lazy at our house, but we did eat our black-eyed peas for good luck! Sarah and Jordon each ate 1-4 peas on their plates!!!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-68557509952283939232008-12-28T11:00:00.006-06:002008-12-28T11:19:10.359-06:00

Love, Peace, Harmony, and FruitcakeOriginally uploaded by vanhookcI asked one of my sons, "And what do you want for Christmas?"His reply, "Love, Peace, Harmony, and Fruitcake." Humm, that's a great list to give and will take thought. Perhpaps, the easiest on the list is the fruitcake.And so, on Christmas Eve, I sent my youngest and the Dad on a mission to find the fruitcake. "Don't come home till

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-13632235844472453642008-12-19T14:44:00.001-06:002008-12-19T14:44:44.507-06:00

Guarding the PrinterOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis fellow is in charge! There will be no wasting of paper and ink in this house with him around. As we move to an Web2.0 society, perhaps we can all think about conserving more, writing and saving to the Web instead of wasting so much paper, ink and resources!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-69990896209997625622008-12-10T20:30:00.003-06:002009-05-06T15:50:45.512-05:00

Teens share from the heart!Originally uploaded by vanhookcSE Polk Book Club enjoys giving new books to the Seasons of Sharing Project, sponsored by Central Place. This is an effort to provide gifts to others in our community. The teens raise the money to buy books by working concession stands. It is rewarding that we can handle these books, bringing back memories of our own childhoods. We

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-23683426233563081362008-12-09T22:59:00.001-06:002008-12-09T22:59:34.702-06:00

SEPHS-12.5.08Originally uploaded by vanhookc December 8, 2008--It has been a yearly tradition for six years that the SE Polk Senior High School joins together with another school in Iowa over the ICN to have a simulation creation of a bill. This year the mission was to make a bill for a school dress code! The simulation's governor did indeed pass the bill! He commented that the students were

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-35058580985128898162008-11-25T21:47:00.005-06:002009-05-06T15:51:56.517-05:00

A Piece of the Berlin Wall at the Hoover MuseumOriginally uploaded by vanhookcA warm, sunny November day only two days before Thanksgiving -- well now, that's something to be thankful for. Southeast Polk students headed out, on this day, to the Hoover Museum and Library and to Kalona, Iowa, on a luxurious charter bus! And what was accomplished?This bus load of students, staff, and parents

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-48407722248614778932008-11-22T09:53:00.003-06:002008-11-23T12:01:18.765-06:00

Brown pebblesOriginally uploaded by rogergordonLearning rocks in the K12 school library!The library is a solid rock foundation to a strong school and the students are its most valuable support system!The library rocks to overcome ignorance in literacy and prejudices!The library rocks! It's a cool place to just hang out with your friends and share some great thoughts in an environment filled with

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-37759112050010121852008-11-20T15:42:00.012-06:002008-11-23T12:08:36.281-06:00

Source: Flickr, Originally uploaded by Mc MorrBe on time! The bus needs to roll out before rest of student body rolls in!Got your camera ready? You might want to bring it along! Thanks McMorr for the Creative Commons use of this picture in Flickr.On Tuesday, 47 SEP students and staff will depajavascript:void(0)rt by charter bus for West Branch and Kalona, Iowa! This trip is long-time in the

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-41654779896633365532008-11-16T11:59:00.002-06:002008-11-16T12:01:09.019-06:00

Promise of Clear Skies AheadOriginally uploaded by vanhookcCouldn't pull the car over quickly enough to snap this photo!The sky was playing wonderful color games at sunset! I loved driving westward and watching the picture change by the minute!This picture suggests that even though skies may be cloudy, brighter days are ahead!And, yes, the sun is shining today. What new discoveries, adventures,

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-91336692516847891152008-11-15T21:17:00.002-06:002008-11-15T21:20:35.023-06:00

Football Success 2008Originally uploaded by vanhookcAt the climax of every football season, this is what awaits as I drive around the corner to the rear of the school. I'm going to miss seeing this as we move down the street into the new school building next Fall.This symbolizes so much. It represents a whole year of training, a lot of sweat and hard work in the summer as the season begins, great

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-56827728499903420482008-11-13T19:17:00.002-06:002008-11-13T19:35:20.648-06:00

What fun! I love the power of letters and words! Of course so...I work in a school library. I, also, love photography! Combine the two and this is what you get... Try this yourself! It is a lot of fun. And of course, you might like to start an A to Z photo shoot! Drop your letters in the box!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-57908425527018955542008-11-12T21:57:00.001-06:002008-11-12T21:57:06.224-06:00

LoveOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis is a kind, compassionate symbol for a very caring school community. Hoping that each student and staff feels the love being shared at school. Each person has great worth to the health, happiness, and well-being of this great school. Through sadness, know that there are brighter days ahead.Each individual in this school is important! May God bless all...

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-4919765751564845052008-11-11T19:00:00.004-06:002008-11-11T19:14:25.531-06:00

Words of Wisdom in EducationOriginally uploaded by vanhookcDo you see the key to educational success here? It's there; literally in shape as well as in words!Here are our SE Polk summary notes from the National School Board Association Tech + Learning Conference visualized in Wordle! What fun to wait for the churning of the computer until POP... the Wordle results!How in the world this came

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-39052340067662573282008-11-09T15:14:00.006-06:002008-11-10T17:03:54.763-06:00

SAM of SeattleOriginally uploaded by vanhookcRecently, I participated with a team of educators from our district in a national conference. Six members of the Southeast Polk Community School District attended the National School Board Association's Tech + Learning Conference, Oct. 28-30, 2008.And my thoughts?The major focus of the conference was: The future is now! We must open doors for our

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-30233786378067861592008-10-01T05:57:00.003-05:002008-10-01T05:58:06.065-05:00

Homecoming SE Polk styleOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis certainly took a lot of that 'ole fluffy white necessary stuff! And what an artistic flow of paper. Two weeks later, the campus is still littered with bits and pieces.In a funny kind of way, school spirit is pictured here. The project happened way past the bedtime of most humans or past mine. It took some strong arms to throw these

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-91028192104386688362008-09-28T12:55:00.003-05:002008-09-28T12:59:48.535-05:00

Plurking is pretty awesome! You can ask a question or share your thoughts. Quickly, you have some feedback with folks around the world!Testing out a comic strip generator, I did this quick comic on plurk.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-14356719247716761952008-09-27T13:06:00.001-05:002008-09-27T13:06:47.460-05:00

Wanted: You to Visit Your LibraryOriginally uploaded by vanhookcWho'd of thought! Back in 1994, as a nice collaborative effort, I pulled out a puzzle of Lewis and Clark and placed it in the high school library! I was doing my part in a collaborative teaching project for a group of students researching Lewis and Clark. They loved it!To my surprise, many other students and teachers took a few

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-3387524285413383692008-09-25T22:01:00.001-05:002008-09-25T22:01:29.881-05:00

Reading is the Cat's MeowOriginally uploaded by vanhookcWhen I sit down to read on the couch, I usually fall asleep! But it is a favorite time for me. I have a cat that tries to sit on the pages and a dog that snuggles in his spot right beside me!Where do you like to read?

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-81866436948020314452008-09-24T20:04:00.005-05:002008-09-25T21:44:09.783-05:00

Cozy libraryOriginally uploaded by vanhookcCould you lend a helping hand in keeping our library nice for all?In reading and responding to a blog over at: http://lisnews.org/libraries_crisis_trying_move_times_national_tragedy#comment-35641, I have the following thoughts:I am a high school teacher librarian for six years and have transformed a traditionally quiet library into a popular social /

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-70853431547489206312008-09-07T11:51:00.001-05:002008-09-07T11:51:18.051-05:00

Photo Play : Take on EducationOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThe sun is trying to break through as I drive up the hill to our high school campus. What are the challenges that await today? Learning will happen, I know, in big ways and small ways.May I do my best at making a positive impact on the lives of these teens. I may never know the difference I have made in the lives of others. Just a smile

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-65646909844970734582008-09-01T11:15:00.002-05:002008-09-01T11:17:51.208-05:00

Wow, I found wordle!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-47906798499334379522008-08-29T20:18:00.003-05:002008-08-30T23:37:35.139-05:00

Let me snap your pictureOriginally uploaded by vanhookcIt's the end of week #2 of school! It's Friday! I have co-taught today with a lovely teacher. We have just completed six classes on research skills. Phew...we're exhausted. The kids are ready to move on to thoughts of football and a three-day weekend vacation! As we wrap these lessons up, I seek the big cozy chair at the front of the library.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-53409789008849523532008-08-22T17:53:00.001-05:002008-08-22T17:53:27.666-05:00

A great team of State Fair workersOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThis was an impressive site. On the last day of the fair, it is my guess that these teens had their last supper together. These kids surely had a big part in making the Iowa State Fair 2008 a successful fair. The official website says, "Based on attendance estimates, the 2008 Iowa State Fair boasts the largest crowds in the Fair’s

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-21450132285601942812008-08-17T12:00:00.001-05:002008-08-17T12:00:38.584-05:00

Iowa's Shawn Johnson 'n ButterOriginally uploaded by vanhookcWishing you luck on these upcoming competitions! We'll be cheering for you all the way, back home, here in Iowa!Sunday night, Aug. 17, 6-11 p.m.: Floor exercise finals. Shawn is the defending world champion.Tuesday night, Aug. 19, 7-11 p.m.: Balance beam finals. Shawn is one of the favorites.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-39869348959309998202008-08-16T20:51:00.001-05:002008-08-16T20:51:15.025-05:00

The Butterfly HouseOriginally uploaded by vanhookcThese butterflies are primarily raised in Costa Rica, The Philippines and Africa by small family farms just for zoos, fairs, and butterfly houses. Using the rainforest in this fashion provides a sustainable living for the indigenous people of the area. The butterflies are imported as chrysalides and hatch within the Butterfly Birthing Center, as

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-37990221165911625142008-08-15T20:24:00.001-05:002008-08-15T20:24:06.742-05:00

DSC02499Originally uploaded by vanhookcDay Seven was beautiful as have been all the days, except a couple have had some rainy spells. This picture shows a treasure chest of pure happiness at the end of this rainbow.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-73708714156960605752008-08-12T22:28:00.001-05:002008-08-12T22:28:56.186-05:00

Iowa Supports Their Own!Originally uploaded by vanhookcLook at this crowd. There is not an empty seat! See you on the grandstand soon, Jason Brown! It was a great concert. Your band is wonderful, too! You make Iowa very proud of you!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-87944024258429201872008-08-10T14:10:00.001-05:002008-08-10T14:10:24.177-05:00

Best of Show in Onions! Originally uploaded by vanhookcI am absolutely impressed with the quality of agriculture in Iowa. There is ample opportunity for practically anyone, of all ages, to win an award, if they work with plants and animals and related areas.Did you know...How many ribbons are handed out during the Fair?Approximately 45,000 ribbons, rosettes and banners are awarded annually to

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-40981716263977366282008-08-09T11:17:00.001-05:002008-08-09T11:20:50.546-05:00

Altoona Offers Fun & FriendlinessOriginally uploaded by vanhookcIt's great to see my friends volunteering to the make the Iowa State Fair the great event that it is! It makes me proud to be an Altoona resident!That sure is some fine artwork, Polly!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-1748560349950346392008-08-07T00:11:00.001-05:002008-08-07T00:11:37.865-05:00

U gotta love it!Originally uploaded by vanhookcThe Iowa State Fair has so much to offer in the way of opportunity, education, entertainment, celebration, and community spirit! It is a highlight of my year!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-65690708922184043662008-08-05T23:01:00.001-05:002008-08-05T23:01:37.060-05:00

A beautyOriginally uploaded by vanhookcWonder what year? Wonder the brand? Wonder the stories this tractor has to tell? I will just bet someone at the IA State Fair knows.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-66292922655981278542008-08-04T22:35:00.001-05:002008-08-04T22:35:11.810-05:00

A celebration of countiesOriginally uploaded by vanhookcA lot of folks are getting ready to make the journey to Des Moines to come to the State Fair. The grounds are looking beautiful and these flags went up today. Young and old alike will be making these counties very proud of their accomplishments at this year's fair!

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-48580175940459378632008-08-03T21:04:00.001-05:002008-08-03T21:04:28.340-05:00

This RAM's watching eweOriginally uploaded by vanhookcIt's funny how you never seem to notice things until you look through the camera lens. This guy's probably been overseeing the IA State Fair since 1015 when the Sheep Barn was constructed.He is in the shade and that's a good thing because the temp today registered 95 degrees. The workers getting ready for fair time in four days had to think it

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-69781768775302091372008-08-03T15:28:00.001-05:002008-08-03T15:28:01.769-05:00

FFA rocks!Originally uploaded by vanhookcThe Iowa State Fair is such a great event! I hope to blog and upload pictures about the Fair every day. The fair is four days away yet but already a flurry of activity.The FFA organization has a beautiful little cottage on the grounds and some of the prettiest pictures around! Hope you will follow along with me as I tour the 2008 IA State Fair.

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831493831848661263.post-86178043796088522452008-05-20T21:04:00.000-05:002008-05-24T16:51:57.934-05:00

Personal Learning Networks are taking off at rapid speed. So, it looks like an interstate of roads and pathways all intertwining with one another. How does one keep on the pathway and headed in the right direction?There has to be organization--a map, you might say. What is the purpose of web 2.0?I have tried to list a few reasons to use online social networks and tools. See if you agree?personal

vanhookchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02058246024333692484noreply@blogger.com1