StarrPoints

November is a busy month for all of us, I know. But some things are worth making time for. I received an e-mail this week from the people at My Teacher, My Hero announcing that anyone who uploads a teacher-tribute video to the My Teacher, My Hero site during the month of November will earn a $25 Giving Card from DonorsChoose.org. It's a nice partnership between two worthwhile sites. If you're not familiar with My Teacher, My Hero or DonorsChoose, they're both worth a visit.

Speaking of teacher wish lists, Digital Wish and Flip Video continue their offer to help you integrate video into your classroom. For just $150, educators can purchase two Flip Ultra™ camcorders (two for the price of one!). Register at Digital Wish to access the promotion.

What else is going on this week? Well, Wednesday, November 18 is Mickey Mouse's birthday -- as well as the birthday of Alan Shepherd, the first American in space. Visit NASA to learn more about Shepherd and the other six original astronauts. Do any of your students want to be an astronaut?

November 19 is the anniversary of The Gettysburg Address, President Abraham Lincoln's most famous speech. Invite students to observe the day by comparing Lincoln's drafts and final version of the Gettysburg Address with this Education World lesson plan.

November 20 is The Great American Smokeout. It's also the date (in 1789) that New Jersey became the first state to ratify the Bill of Rights. How much do your students know about these amendments to the Constitution?

And, of course, John F. Kenneddy was assassinated on November 22, 1963. Perhaps your students would like to pay a virtual visit to the Kennedy Library this week?

Finally, November 15-21 is the NEA's American Education Week, which spotlights the importance of providing every child in America with a quality public education. Take the time to celebrate your own role in that effort.

And have a great week!