Kudos!  Have you heard that word before?  You may have heard a teacher send kudos to a student and teachers love to get kudos from the boss. Webster’s Dictionary defines “kudos” as honor; glory; acclaim.  We recognize and honor excellent work with kudos.  As we approach the end of 2007, it seems an appropriate time to analyze work habits and hand out some recognition.  Do you deserve kudos?

Are you on pace in your course?  Yes.  Then, kudos! 
Pace provides a guideline for managing the workload so students can finish a course in a timely fashion.  Using the pace chart wisely organizes the work in manageable chunks and keeps the teachers happy when assignments are regularly submitted.  If you are not using the pace chart, it is never too late to start.  Teachers will also help you personalize a pace chart when you have special needs.  Once you have a pace chart, use it.  In the end, you will be the winner for using this practice.

Do your grades represent your best work?  Yes. Then, kudos! 
Grades are not as important as the learning they represent.  Every assignment you submit should present your best efforts to demonstrate your understanding and mastery of the material. However, mastery does not always happen the first time. At Florida Virtual School, you are fortunate in that you are encouraged to resubmit your work.  Therefore, you have the opportunity to keep trying until you really understand the material.  Your grade improves because learning increases.  Take advantage of this opportunity so your grades reflect the learning you have achieved.

Have you spoken with your teacher in the last two-three weeks?  Yes.  Then, kudos!
Regular communication with the teacher increases student success.  That is a fact.  Teachers become teachers because they love helping students learn.  Use them as a resource and call them with questions.  Let them clarify an assignment or provide suggestions on how you can improve your performance. Oral assessments provide you the opportunity to show off for the teacher.  Use this one-on-one time to explain how much you have learned and be proud of your accomplishments.  Don’t wait for the teacher to call you; call first and be eager to share your new-found knowledge.

Do you regularly involve your parents in your schoolwork?  Yes.  Then, kudos!
The number one indicator of student success is parental involvement.  That is why Florida Virtual School places such an emphasis on communication between you and your parent with the teacher.  Your parents want to know that you are learning and growing.  Share your work with them.  Open your gradebook and some of the assignments so they can see first-hand what you are doing.  Let them read the teacher comments, compliments and suggestions.  Encourage your parents to talk frequently with your teachers.  You are a team with a common goal…your success.

Are you having fun and preparing for the future?  Yes.  Then, kudos!
Learning should be fun.  Look for opportunities to participate fully at FLVS. Many clubs are available: Science Club, International Club, History Club, Latin and Spanish Clubs, Future Business Leaders of America, Newspaper Club, APLS, NEHS.  In addition, activities such as World AIDS Awareness Day, College Hub, Human Rights Day, the Shakespeare Festival, World Hunger Day, Career Day and book clubs provide unique learning opportunities that are fun as well as educational.  The school experience should be more than completing credits.  Join in.   

How many kudos did you give yourself?  As 2007 draws to a close, take the time to assess your work habits. Make adjustments where you need them.  Then you can start 2008 with a bang!  Enjoy your winter holidays however you celebrate them.  May 2008 be a year of unparalleled academic success for you.