Career Kids

All Sorts of Things Going On...

Here are some announcements, links and information we distributed in our recent newsletter and twitter. (I admit, I really do not like twitter and look forward to someone telling me I don't "need" to use it anymore.) Hope these are helpful:

- We have a new Careers for Me Plus edition. Let us know if you would like a sample mailed to you.
- A new edition of the software for Careers for Me Junior is about to be released.
- Here are some interesting links:
    - Mini grants for service-oriented projects performed by youth are available through the Pay It Forward Foundation: http://tinyurl.com/d9rwa9
    - Read about Vail Valley school district helping students with disabilities get ready for the transition from school to work.
    - Read about the study showing that a parent's best bet is to have a no tolerance drinking rule for underage kids.
    - Top 60 Jobs That Will Rock Your Future list.
    - Download free handouts on bullying, ethics and parenting from Barbara Coloroso.
    - Latest article on our about to take your real-life experiences and translate them into transferable skills.

Sally Ride and Some Thoughts

I have a season ticket for a speaker's series in Sacramento. Last year, one of the speakers was Sally Ride. She was one of the better speakers, as well as having one of the most impressive resumes a person can hold.

In addition to everything she has accomplished (Ph.D. in physics from Stanford, the first American female in space having been on two shuttle missions, and currently a professor at UC San Diego), she started a company in 2001 called Sally Ride Science (www.sallyridescience.com). It's purpose is to encourage science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers to kids, particularly girls.

Ms. Ride is understandably concerned about the difficulties in keeping kids -- especially girls -- interested in math and science. In an Associated School Counselor's Association podcast,  she discusses the link between math and science skills to the economy. Sally Ride Science provides professional development programs, homeschool and classroom science resources, science and career books and school programs.

There are also some great science links on Sally Ride's website, and you can hear her on more podcasts. She's enthusiastic, knowledgeable and has a passion for her field and in reaching young people. For more information about Sally Ride, as well as other people who have contributed to our society, check out the Career Biography Series.

My unscientific observation has been that boys, as well as girls, are no longer as interested in STEM careers as they might have been a generation ago. There may be a need to have two different approaches for the genders, but let's make sure we are reaching everyone.

And the Pursuit of Happiness - Can Do

If you want to smile, feel a little motivated, and like Benjamin Franklin (who doesn't?), check this out:
And the Pursuit of Happiness - Can Do

We have a new school year just around the corner. My youngest daughter is starting her first year of high school in two weeks. I truly feel she is going to have a great four years.

We are looking forward to the new school year here at Career Kids, too. Some exciting new products are in the pipeline and we're working hard to add more products and free resources to the website. Stay tuned!