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Readiness important for school success

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Mike Deibert
  • 305th Services Squadron
MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. --  The term "readiness" is a key word in our Air Force vocabulary. To most, the term denotes a state of preparedness, with the ability to carry out whatever mission we're tasked with effectively and successfully.

The same can be said of students as they approach a new school year. As a veteran teacher, I observe students in various states of readiness -- some completely prepared to tackle the upcoming school year, others who begin the fall semester in a state of disarray.

How can parents help their children be ready for learning? How can they prepare students for their mission -- learning, growing and maturing as young people in our educational system? Here are some thoughts based on observations and experiences as a public school teacher:

1. Give your school-age children a great jump on every school day. Make sure they get at least eight hours of sleep each school night, and see that they eat a balanced breakfast before they begin their studies. A day of learning can be long and strenuous for many youngsters, so give them the "edge" before they begin their day.

2. Teach your children how to organize their books, folders, homework papers and other school materials. Make sure your students have a notebook section or folder for each subject, with lined paper and writing supplies on hand. Have a system in place that allows your students to write down daily homework assignments in an assignment book, and spot check notebooks and texts to keep them free of clutter. As the saying goes, "there's a place for everything, and everything in its place."

3. Establish a homework schedule for your students after school. It may be a good idea to allow your children to go outside and burn off some energy after they get home. However, don't let them procrastinate and put off doing their homework, especially those assignments that may take a little longer or may be difficult.

4. Establish contact with your children's teachers, and take advantage of school-sponsored back-to-school nights, parent-teacher conferences, and other events designed to give you feedback as to how your children are doing in school, and what readiness areas might need attention.

5. Finally, speak with your children as to the importance of being organized and ready for their school experience. The cues you give them will influence their attitudes and behavior; stay upbeat, positive and involved throughout the entire year. Set the example, and be the example. As another old saying goes, "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."

I wish you and your children a successful, enjoyable and interesting school year. Please remember, our future strength as a free nation depends on how we educate the children of today; a responsibility we all share.