Comments by Jenny Shrank Most recent public comments by Jenny Shrank https://nowcomment.com/users/114642 I think when many of us think of equity we think of everyone having the physical tools needed to succeed, but having tools like support and access to affinity spaces that allow for recognition of talents and opportunities is a big part to keep in mind. https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647684 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647684 Sun, 28 Nov 2021 12:35:15 -0500 This reminded me of my sister. She is a talented artist and craftsperson and would join clubs and classes, but because she had no one to connect her interests to opportunities she spent a lot of her life uncertain what to do believing art was just a hobby https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647682 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647682 In community college, she took a ceramics class just for fun, but her professor recognized her interest and skill and encouraged her to join a group of students who make pottery and sell it in the school's craft fair. She never thought about selling her work prior to this and never had the connections to do so. She ended up making more money than she envisioned and now sells pottery as a side gig. It is important for us as educators to be that bridge, especially for young students who may not realize that their interests and talents can help them in both academic and professional settings. Sun, 28 Nov 2021 16:49:37 -0500 I remember reading that as we move forward in school, our divergent thinking decreases tremendously. Interest based learning could be one solution to not only preserving, but strengthening divergent thinking and making learning more meaningful. https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647681 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647681 Sun, 28 Nov 2021 12:21:25 -0500 I think it is amazing that she was able to be so connected and use these open resources, but I am curious how she knew where to go? Sixth grade seems young to be able to be able to navigate these open resources with ease. It is impressive nonetheless! https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647678 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647678 This shows the power of interest driven learning, that if students are interested, they will find ways to learn whether conventionally or not. Sun, 28 Nov 2021 12:14:43 -0500 The design of the game lends itself to the development of 21st century skills. Minecraft could be a great tool to incorporate into everyday learning to promote these skills without having to spend time creating something new. https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647677 https://nowcomment.com/documents/132976?scroll_to=2647677 Sun, 28 Nov 2021 12:14:43 -0500 I loved this poem! https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632740 https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632740 I have been to this park before and the author does a great job helping visualize the beauty and tranquility of Alum Rock Park. Personification alongside her descriptions help paint the image of the parks unmatched beauty. This poem brought me back to exploring the park with my family growing up. Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:23:05 -0400 It is actually still open to the public and is a beautiful place to hike! I never saw it in 1895, but I feel like much of it remains the same. It is a beautiful place to explore. https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632738 https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632738 https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/2088/2002 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:23:05 -0400 Alum Rock Park is in Silicon Valley, hence the glen or narrow valley and contains a creek which is the torrent the author is referring to. https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632736 https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632736 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:23:05 -0400 I agree! I feel like she is saying it is unmatched in beauty. https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632720 https://nowcomment.com/documents/121190?scroll_to=2632720 Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:23:05 -0400