Mark Dunk’s Blog

I just received my DEN shoulder tote, lanyard, and desk plaque (with a big, blue star on it)!  I’ve been doing so much interaction with DEN colleagues via the Internet and Second Life that it was a little weird (but very nice) to receive something in “real life” from the DEN.  It just confirms for me that the DEN is real and represents a wonderful, supportive group of educators who want to make a difference.  Thanks again!

Tuesday through Friday of this week, Texas students get to experience the TAKS test (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills).  Juniors must pass the exit-level test to be eligible to graduate from high school.  I’d love to hear comments from different states on the types of exit-level testing that occurs.  Texas will be transitioning to an end-of-course testing model in a few years.

Texas had its Future Problem Solvers State Bowl this past weekend, and my high school, Pearland High School, had a team that placed first in the state!  They will be traveling to Michigan State University in May for the International Competition where 41 states compete along with Australia, New Zealand, and Korea, making this a truly international event.  Several countries are in the FPSPI Mentoring program with the intention of competing in the near future.

 In addition to the Texas Team Champion, Pearland High School boasts the Texas Grand Champion in Community Problem Solving.  This student’s project focuses on support of an orphanage in Chapala, Mexico.

 Sorry, but I just had to brag a little about these wonderful students.  If you want more information about FPS, check out the main website at www.fpspi.org. 

This is the third morning in a row that I have been able to look up in the southern sky and see the Milky Way galaxy!  Even though I live about 25 miles from downtown Houston, I am blessed with an unobstructed view of the southern sky with little light pollution.  Just a reminder to all of you to take some time, go outside, and look up!