ASKING QUESTIONS, EXPLORING OPTIONS, CHANGING THE IMPACT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION.

Shelene Livas

Shelene Livas is an educator and currently works at John E. Codwell Elementary, a Fine Arts and Physical Education Magnet School in Houston Texas. Shelene is attending the REEP Business Fellowship Program at Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business - Class of 2012.

Alumni News

The Next Level.

Last March I began a journey that was more than I ever could have imagined.  As a member of Rice REEP’s 3rd cohort, I was given a platform to re-examine some of my views, apply newly acquired knowledge with my students and teammates, and showcase my personal interests and talents.  Overall, I feel that the classes, activities and discussions were at times challenging and thought-provoking. However there were a couple of instances that really stood out.

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Student Life

Not Enough Hours In A Day.

I recently participated in a professional development opportunity that focused on stress and health management for educators.  Initially, I felt that my stress levels were a little elevated due to the rapidly approaching STAAR tests, but overall felt I had things “under control”.  However, the more I began to reflect upon some of the questions presented, I started to see the different types of stressors in both my personal and professional life. Quickly realizing the need to take a step back and restructure my priorities, I realized the root of the problems: time.

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School House

What Did You Learn Today in School?

I remember sitting at the kitchen table completing homework assignments and answering my parents’ questions about my day at school.  Not too long ago, my mom and I were just reminiscing about how she would quiz me on multiplication flashcards every night so that I could make sure I received a star on our class tracking chart.  I even remember the time when she went to Chicago for a few days leaving my dad to make sure that all homework was finished.  I did the work and he checked every night to see that it was not only done, but correct. Despite the fact that they both had a career, they were never too busy to remember that I had homework.  I recall them being very aware of what was going on in my classes not by emailing my teachers (it didn’t exist yet) but because they asked me.

Now, let’s fast-forward about twenty years. 

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