How To Win A Science Fair Contest

A science fair contest is one of the first experiences that students have with real scientific exploration and experimentation. These contests are designed to not only stimulate an interest in science, but to also stimulate the creative subconscious of young scientists. Every year hundreds of these events are held across the country, some at local schools and some at major universities and science institutes. In order to win one of these competitions students need to learn how to create a project that is going to stand out in a good way from the other entries.

Tip #1 – Age Appropriateness Counts

When a science fair judge looks at a project they are going to judge its value based partially on the age of the student and the complexity of the project. Students that create projects that are too simple for their grade level are going to receive lower scores than those students that create projects that are more complex than the average project created by someone of their grade level. A good way to select a project idea or topic that will be considered above your grade level is to examine text books or curriculum guides for science classes that are above your grade level.

Tip #2 – Select a Topic That You Can Handle

While it is important to push the envelope in terms of project complexity, you do not want to over do it. You need to be able to understand your topic and its related concepts in order to complete your project with precision and accuracy. If you select a topic that is too complex then you may not be able to design an experiment that will be manageable for your skill level and available resources.

Tip #3 – Take a Unique Approach

Uniqueness is one of the main characteristics that will be judged about your project. Uniqueness is very important to implement into the design of your project. You can make your project more unique by asking yourself if there is another way to solve your project’s main question or problem, or if there is a better way to do something or if there is a more interesting way to approach your topic. These simple questions can help you to find new angles that the judges will be intrigued by.

Conclusion

Winning a science fair contest is not easy to do. There are few prizes to be won and many students try to win the top places in the contest. The best way for you to enhance your chances of wining a science fair contest is to plan out your project, put in your best effort and to organize your time so that you do not have to rush the completion of your entry.

117 IDAHO SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GRANTS

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna announced that 117 Idaho elementary schools are being awarded Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program grants to fund healthy and nutritious snacks within the school day.

“The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program is a voluntary program that many Idaho schools use each year to provide more nutritious options to students and integrate in the classroom to create engaging lessons about history, geography, writing or other critical subject areas,” Superintendent Luna said.

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program is part of a federal initiative by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to allow schools the opportunity to offer children samples of fruits and vegetables that they would not usually consume.  The goal of the program is to give students the opportunity to try more fruits and vegetables, in addition to what is offered in the National School Lunch Program.

The 117 Idaho schools awarded grants this year will use the funding to provide students with a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at no charge.  This is an effective and creative way of introducing fresh fruits and vegetables as healthy snack options.  Schools receive reimbursement for providing the fresh fruits and vegetables to all students within the school day, but at a different time than the school meal programs operate.

Through the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, many schools offer mid-morning or mid-afternoon snacks to students.  The healthy snacks are delivered to the classroom, distributed out in the cafeteria or in hallways. Students may be given the opportunity to try Idaho grown fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, corn, cucumbers, grapes, peaches, pears, pluots, pumpkins, tomatoes, and zucchini.  Students may also get to try fruits and vegetables that they recognize, but in a different form.  For example, many children may not have eaten fresh corn or pineapple spears. Teachers often incorporate these opportunities into a classroom lesson about healthy eating, geography, or having students write about their experiences.

Schools were awarded the grants through a competitive application process.  The grant funding for these schools will begin July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015.

For a list of schools that were awarded the grant or more information about Child Nutrition Programs at the Idaho State Department of Education, please visit http://www.sde.idaho.gov/site/cnp/. 

Go Green! Earth Science Fair Projects

Earth Science Fair Projects

Governments around the world along with private organization and companies are converging and discussing the environmental issues that are facing our planet. These international meetings are attended and lead by some of the greatest minds in the area of ecological sustainability. These leaders have spent their professional careers researching and implementing programs and policies to protect and repair the environment. They did not, however, wake up one day with all these qualifications in their heads. They have spent years and decades studying and researching their chosen field of specialty. Like other professionals, they began their careers as students. Many of these professionals are the very students who began their studies with earth science fair projects demonstrations. This was likely the first demonstration of their ability and desire to understand the systems and life forms with which we share the planet.

Earth science fair projects are the perfect venue for students who want to pursue a career in any number of environmental fields. The earth science fair projects of students often become the focus of their career goals. For those students interested in plant life, an earth science fair project on the growth of food crops might be in order. Students who are interested in the cycles of weather, and earth science fair project would be appropriate. Others who are interested in the history and origins of the very planet upon which we live could develop an earth science fair project around this huge topic. Regardless of the specific topic, earth science fair projects offer all students the opportunity to demonstrate their beginning knowledge of these important topics.

Many of the students who present earth science fair projects have plans on continuing their education at the college and postgraduate levels. These students often take the seed of interest that is planted with their first earth science fair projects and continue the studies at these higher educational levels. There are even professional who started at the high school science fair and were offered tuition and scholarships to continue their research. All the international professionals began as students, so the possibilities exist for all students interested in these fields of study. With these opportunities, students can transform their careers while transforming our stewardship of the Earth.

Nondenominational Christian Colleges

Gordon College, Wenham, MA, is the only nondenominational Christian college in New England and one of the nation's leading Christian colleges. It is also one of the leading Nondenominational Christian Colleges of America. Gordon College was founded as the Boston Missionary Training School in 1889 by Reverend Dr. Adoniram Judson Gordon 'to prepare the people of God to do the work of God'. The basement of the Clarendon Street Church served as the setting for the newly formed institution. In 1955, the institution made the move to Wenham.

Although Gordon College is committed to excellence in liberal arts education and academic freedom, students are expected to balance academic and spiritual expectations. Learning is never considered an end in itself. Education at Gordon is defined by Biblical theism. Students learn that a Christian education extends far beyond the classroom and the campus.

Gordon offers 37 majors and 29 concentrations. The institution's 20 academic departments are divided into five divisions: 1. Fine Arts; 2. Education; 3 Humanities; 4. Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science; and 5. Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Gordon's faculty comprises top, nationally recognized scholars. The institution's core curriculum looks at the liberal arts and sciences from the Christian perspective and encourages the development of a Christian character. The core curriculum includes the following courses required of all students:

• The Great Conversation: Foundations in Thinking, Reading and Writing
• Old Testament History, Literature and Culture
• New Testament History, Literature and Culture
• Christian Theology
• The Examined Life
• Historical Perspectives on Culture, Belief and Civilization
• The Scientific Enterprise
• Language Study
• Physical Education

Contributing to original research is an important facet of student life at Gordon College. Students are encouraged to work alongside faculty in cutting-edge research.

Studying at one of the nation's leading Nondenominational Christian Colleges, students are also expected to renew their faith by attending services and presentations at the A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel. Participation in these events is seen as an extension of the institution's core curriculum, and involves students as well as the faculty and staff.

Gordon also offers the following Graduate Programs:

• Education: Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.), and Master of Education (M.Ed.)
• Music Education: Master of Music Education (M.M.Ed.)

Gordon is one of only four Christian liberal arts colleges to be ranked nationally by U.S. News and World Report.

Cbse India Introduces A Common Syllabus For Maths & Science!

The Union Ministry of Human Resource and CBSE India are leaving no stone unturned to make lives easy for school students across the various boards in India! The latest stride towards this endeavor is the introduction of a common syllabus for Maths and Science for the students of classes XI and XII across all the educational boards. Therefore, from the academic year starting 2011-12, students from all the boards in the country can look forward to a uniform syllabus!

An initiative like this by CBSE India will ensure a level playing field for all the students while they prepare for their engineering and medical entrance examinations. Hence, while all you students studying in classes XI & XII, preparing for your national level engineering and medical entrance exams from the year 2012, need no longer worry about the extensive syllabi covered by your friend in CBSE or other national/ state board.

A common syllabus is just the first step by the Human Resource Ministry and CBSE India towards a flexible pattern of education that is comparable to the education systems existing in the West. CBSE India also has plans in the pipeline to conduct a common entrance exam for Medical and Engineering courses in India by 2013. If such a plan by CBSE India gains acceptance from all the academic corners in the country, life after class XII is only set to get easier for students.

However, implementation of a common syllabus by CBSE India has also garnered a lot of criticism by NCERT. NCERT is of the view that Council of School Board of Education (COBSE) has no right to push the common syllabus agenda. NCERT believes that the decision to undertake any curriculum revision exercise should rightfully rest with itself as NCERT has been instrumental in all such changes over the past years. It also believes that COBSE is just a coordinating body between the various school boards in the country.

Amidst all this controversy, major stakes are now on successful implementation of this common syllabus scheme for Maths and Science. Success of a common syllabus like this could also spread cheer in the lives of students studying in the Commerce and Humanities streams. Talks are around for a uniform syllabus for various subjects in these streams as well. What more could have students asked for to ensure a smooth and stress-free studying experience!

There are various websites that provide CBSE-aligned learning resources for students studying in classes V-XII. A common syllabus for Maths and Science will also ensure that more students can now seek help from such websites and reap benefits of quality and extensive learning resources.

All students studying under CBSE India can expect a lot of good news in the near future as well.

All the best for the future!

How To Build A Greenhouse Grade 7 Science Fair Projects

A greenhouse is basically a structure that has been designed to capture and retain the heat from the sun. It is used to grow plants when the climate does not want to cooperate. Greenhouses can be used in a number of science fair projects and can be used to test concepts from a variety of fields of sciences including engineering, physics, botany and biology.

Project #1 – Capturing Heat Energy

In this project the students will be designing a greenhouse that captures heat energy from multiple sources. They will be capturing heat energy from the sun and geothermal heat energy from the ground. This project will require the student to learn about heat extraction techniques related to solar energy and geothermal energy.

Sample hypotheses that can be tested with this project include:
(1) The thickness of the plastic used for enclosing the greenhouse impacts the amount of heat conservation in the greenhouse;
(2) The opaqueness of the material used for enclosing the greenhouse impacts the amount of heat conservation in the greenhouse;
(3) The depth of the insulation on the floor of the greenhouse impacts the amount of geothermal heat conservation in the greenhouse.

Project #2 – Growing Radishes

In this project the student will build a greenhouse so that they can grow radishes and conduct experiments on the radish plants during times of the year that are not normally conducive to gardening. Radish projects can look at a number of things. For example, students can try to cross pollinate radishes with another root vegetable like carrots, they can attempt to grow radishes in sand or they can try to manipulate the size of the radish by exposing the plant to 20 hours of light per day.

Project #3 – Engineering Greenhouses

For students that are interested in engineering, greenhouse science fair projects can be developed with an engineering focus. For example, students can try to develop a greenhouse using nothing but materials that are normally thrown out or recycled, such as cans, bottles and plastic containers. Students will not only need to design and build their greenhouse, but they will also need to test the effectiveness their greenhouse has in regards to collecting and conserving heat energy.

Project #4 – Studying Solar Energy Applications

The final project option will be an application project. Students will be learning about solar energy and how to use this knowledge to harness the sun’s energy to heat a greenhouse. For this project students will design and build a greenhouse that maximizes the energy delivered by the sun. A good approach for this project is to see if their design can magnify solar energy within the greenhouse to make it effective in cold weather.

Do Bar And Ring Magnets Have Different Magnetic Properties Science Fair Project

Magnets are a common test subject for elementary and middle school science fair projects. Magnet science fair projects often examine what impacts a magnetic field or what a magnetic field can impact. In this sample project students will be examining if magnetic properties can be manipulated based on the type of magnet, ring or bar, that is used.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis for this science fair project is that the ring and bar magnets have the same magnetic properties. The dependent variable for this hypothesis is the type of magnetic properties that are displayed by the magnet and the independent variable is the type of magnet. To clarify this hypothesis the term “magnetic properties” needs to be defined as having a magnetic polarity.

Supplies

To complete this magnet science fair project students will need a variety of bar and ring magnets. They will also need to have objects that also have polarity such as metal objects. Finally, students will need a data collection sheet.

The Experiment

The control experiment for this test will use the bar magnet. This magnet was chosen because it has the most traditional shape and properties. It will serve as the baseline data source. To test the magnetic properties of a bar magnet students will need to test the bar for polarity by identifying if it attracts opposite poles and if it repels like poles.

The test experiment will focus on the ring magnet. This magnet will be run through similar tests. A bar magnet that has poles clearly labeled can be used to test the polarity of various points on the ring magnet. Students will want to mark what areas of the ring magnet are attracted by each pole of the bar magnet and which areas are repelled.

Data Collection and Analysis

The collection of data will be based on simple observations of repulsion and attraction trends for both the bar and the ring magnets. The analysis of the data will revolve on the student’s ability or inability to find poles on the ring magnet. (*Hint: the poles on a ring magnet may not be found on the curved edge of the magnet.)

In order to prove the hypothesis may be correct the student will need to find polarity properties on the ring magnet. If polarity is not found then the hypothesis can be assumed to be false. Students may need to run this experiment several times to gather enough data to make a solid conclusion from the data that they collect.

Design A Water Filtration System For A Science Fair Project

One of the perks of working on a science fair project is that you are completely free to explore your topic. You can examine any element of your topic that you want and you are only confined by your understanding of the topic and your imagination. One of the challenges of working on a science fair project, on the other hand, is that you are often required to design and build testing equipment, processes and tools. This article will show you how to design four different types of water filtration systems for your science fair project.

#1 – Shampoo and Newspaper

One of the most simple water filtration systems that you can design and build is a shampoo and newspaper filtration system. This system will not only filter out sediment from your water sample, but it will also remove contaminants like oil, pesticides and other oily substances. To create this water filtration system you will need a stack of newspapers, shampoo and your contaminated water.

First create your newspaper filter by laying several pieces of newspaper over a bucket. Next spread a layer of shampoos on the surface of the newspaper. Finally, slowly pour the contaminated water over the newspaper filter. The water will be cleaned by the shampoo and filtered by the newspaper.

#2 – Mini-Earth Water Processor

The second option that you have is to create a miniature version of the earth’s water filtration system. For this you will need a five gallon bucket, plastic hosing, large stones, medium sized stones, cheese cloth, gravel and sand. You will also need a tool to cut a hole in the bottom of your bucket.

To build this water filtration system you will cut a hole in the bottom of your buck large enough to fit the hose and a rubber stopper. Thread the hose through the hole and secure it with a rubber washer. Next line the bucket with finely woven cheese cloth, gauze or burlap. Make sure the fabric square is large enough to line the entire bucket and to hang outside the bucket. Add a layer of sand, then pea gravel, then medium sized rocks and finally top it off with larger stones.

Place your bucket up on a table so that the hose hangs down and comes to rest in normal bucket on the floor. Pour the contaminated water into the filter bucket and allow the water to be processed. The clean water will be collected in the second bucket.

Iipm Fee Structure, Programs And Facilities

No matter how much of controversy IIPM attracts, students have still been enthusiastic about taking admission to the Institute of Planning & Management. IIPM fee structure is an infamous one since it has always been thought to be exceptionally high. But the picture is surely different as a lot of students pass out from the institute every year. Somehow only those who study at IIPM are quite happy with what the program has to offer. Before moving on to the detailed IIPM fee structure, let's understand what the institute has to offer to its students.

IIPM Infrastructure

IIPM infrastructure speaks volumes about the kind of facilities that are offered to the students who are studying there. The campus is huge and offers all state of the art facilities inside the institute's premises. Some of the key highlights if the IIPM campus are:

* mphitheater class rooms
* 200-300 seater auditoriums for each campus
* Swimming pool
* Gymnasium
* Games like mini golf, billiards, pool, etc.
* Hostel accommodation

Facilities like these, a laptop for each student and global trips are a few of the important highlights of the facilities provided at the Institute of Planning & Management. Clubbed with high quality education, students exchange programs and international placements with the top brands, it makes a wonderful place to be in and justifies the IIPM fee structure completely. For students who cannot afford the fee are also guided and aided for securing an educational loan.

IIPM Global Faculty

While students pay for all of the above mentioned facilities, a few things that stil go unmentioned is the global faculty that the institute boats of. Global faculty lectures keep happening every now and then at IIPM and students are allowed to understand difference in the economy and business in different countries. Apart from a countries economic situation and business culture being different, there are things like understanding the business ethics and cultural differences which go a long way in corporate success in any country of the world.

Also on the global trips students go to institutes/universities like Oxford, Harvard & Wharton include lectures at these wonderful institutes. When it comes to education and exposure, IIPM leaves no stone unturned. For those who still think that the IIPM fee structure is not justified should have a closer look at the fee structure.

IIPM Fee Structure

IIPM fee structure is distributed in 4 slabs. These slabs have been set according to the number of specializations that a student can opt for and the global trips. The programs have been designed in different slabs with different fee structure. And the maximum fee amount is approximately 12 lakhs which allows a student to specialize in 4 subjects and includes two 20 days global trips to all the top educational universities in countries like UK & US.

The Most Common Types Of Government Grants

Student grants provide financial assistance to underprivileged yet deserving students who would like to pursue higher education. We must admit that there are certainly a lot of young people nowadays who are willing to study but are not just financially able. The government is spending billions of dollars for education, and it is willing to spend more for the benefit of many underprivileged students through student grants. The approval of each applied student grant normally depends on the family's financial situation. The government may be able to provide you enough financial assistance for your whole college education, or just enough to cover some of your expenses.

Another type of government grant is the business grant. This type of government grant is awarded to people who want to start or expand their own business. Business grants are usually approved if the business involved provides benefits to a certain group or sector of the society such as ethnic groups, the elderly, or the women.

The third most common type of government grant is the foundation grant. Foundation grants are awarded to people who have ideas or projects in mind that will greatly benefit the community or the environment they live in. Projects such as organizing relief groups for flood or hurricane victims are among those that are covered by the foundation grants.

These three are just some of the types of government grants that you can apply for. There are actually many government grants available. What you just have to do is learn all of these types, and determine which one is ideal for your situation.

IDAHO STUDENTS SOLVE 14 MILLION MATH PROBLEMS THIS SCHOOL YEAR

This month, Idaho students finished their “Race to 14 Million” challenge by solving 14 million complex math problems while using Think Through Math (TTM), a web-based math solution for grades 3-Algebra I provided by the Idaho State Department of Education through the Idaho Math Initiative. 

The challenge was created by the Idaho State Department of Education with the specific intention of increasing student achievement by tracking problems completed from August 15- August 1 of each year.

This year marks the largest number of problems completed in Idaho. Last year, Idaho students exceeded the “Race to 10 Million” goal by solving approximately 12.9 million math problems on Think Through Math by August.  This year, not only did Idaho students reach the 14 million goal, but they accomplished this goal on May 10, three months ahead of schedule.

“Congratulations to Idaho students!” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna. “At the beginning of the school year, we knew setting a goal of solving 14 million complex mathematics problem was high, but our students have exceeded our expectations, just as they always do.”

More than 26,000 students completed problems on TTM, using the system both in school and at home. TTM’s anytime, anywhere math policy motivates students to work on math outside of school hours, including evening and weekend hours when they have access to live teachers.

“My kids love the program so much that they ask if they can stay in from recess to work on Think Through Math,” said Kathy McClendon, fifth grade teacher at Eagle Hills Elementary School in the Meridian School District.

The Idaho State Department of Education began providing Think Through Math to all public schools in Idaho in 2008, as part of the Idaho Math Initiative. The program is designed to build math muscle by supplementing classroom instruction with adaptive, problem-based instruction. Live tutors are available to assist students who struggle. A robust motivation system rewards effort and engages students to spend more time doing math.

Learn more about Think Through Math on the Idaho Math Initiative website.

Obama's "mom's Return To School" Government Grant Scholarship

Did you know that the new US government is committed to helping single moms return to school? Many mothers are not aware that the Obama's 'Moms Return to School' Government Grant Scholarship is available, but there are big benefits to finding out as much as you can about this offer.

Given the state of our economy this is a great time to be finishing or furthering your education; even more so if you are a single mother. When the economy bounces back (which it always does), qualified workers are going to be in big demand. Having that degree will make you qualified for that job you have always wanted.

Here are some of the important things to know about Obama's "Mom's Return To School" grants and scholarships.

Federal Pell Grants

One of the first bills introduced by Obama, the Federal Pell Grants are being increased for low income students. That means the maximum grant allowed now is $5100 instead of $4050. There is even talk of raising it more. If you are a single mother then is one of the very best grants that you can get.

You can apply for this grant by choosing a college or university that you wish to attend. Make sure they are running your chosen program or course first.

You then fill out a deferral FAFSA form and have it submitted.

Tax Benefits for Studying Moms

The first four thousand dollars of money applied toward higher education is tax free according to the American Opportunity Tax Credit.

Grants for Online Study

If you are planning on attending an online school then be aware that Obama's "Mom's Return To School" government grant program is still an option for you . If you think about it studying using an online school just makes a lot of sense for a single mother who wants to be available for her kids.

You can also look for additional grants and scholarships you qualify for. You may be surprised to find that some are even suited for single mothers and may offer more money.

Preparing For The National Board Of Echocardiography Certification

The formation of the National Board of Echocardiography, Inc. (NBE) was done by merging SCA Exam and ASCeXAM, Inc. in November 1998. Now, NBE works in collaboration with the National Board of Medical Examiners to conduct examinations which allow physicians to test and demonstrate the knowledge of Echocardiography. The emphasis of the entire exercise is to establish quality and standard in the profession. Bringing out competence among professionals involved in Echocardiography, NBE holds three level exams.

The ASCeXAM is the examination of special competence in adult Echocardiography, candidates who wish to get competence in all areas of Echocardiography can appear for the certification. Similarly, the ReASCE stands for the Recertification Examination of Special Competence in Adult Echocardiography which is designed specifically for the candidates who have previously been certified. The third certification is Advanced PTEeXAM which stands for the examination of special competence in advanced perioperative transesophageal echocardiography.

The PTEeXAM certification shows that the certified professional has special competence in advanced perioperative transesophageal echocardiography and can utilize the full diagnostic potential of perioperative TEE including direction of the perioperative surgical decision making process. Echocardiography review is done to re-certify a candidate who has been registered but lost the membership because of time lapse. Several textbook of Echocardiography review help candidates prepare for recertification or ReASCE.

Echocardiography videos help candidates understand several subjects covered in NBE conducted exams. The videos can be used to know about Sound Wave Connection, Transducer Components, Structure of Ultrasound Beam, Display of Ultrasound Info, 3D Imaging: Volumetric Imaging, Surface Reconstruction, The Doppler Effect and Analysis, TEE Exam Contraindications, Prep and Procedure Probe insertion, orientation and manipulation, Multiple Mid-esophageal chamber views, Misinterpretation of Normal Structures, Aortic regurgitation, etc.

Additionally, Echocardiography video can be used to understand several topics covered e.g. Aortic Stenosis, Mitral Valve Regurgitation, Mitral Stenosis Pressure Half-Time, Bileaflet Prosthetic Valves, Contrast Echocardiography, Ventricular Assist Devices, Right Ventricular Function, Assessment of Diastolic Function, Air Detection, Wall Motion Anomalies, etc. in certification exam. The study material to prepare for the NBE conducted exam can be bought in videos. With the help of Echocardiography videos candidates can study questions asked in the exam.

Source – ATI Medical Education Publishing is a leading service provider of study material for Echocardiography certification. It offers Echocardiography Video Review which is a Comprehensive Training Video for real time 3D Heart Imaging. The program is auto-installable onto the computer by the insertion of the disc. Though not incompatible with MAC, it can be used with Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/2003/XP/Vista/7

General Information About Cocaine

Cocaine is an illegal, mood-altering drug. It is a fine white powder consisting of cocaine hydrochloride from the leaves of the coca shrub and other compounds. The shrub is indigenous to Peru and Bolivia. There are an estimated five million users of cocaine in the United States. Use of the drug can lead to serious physical and/or psychological problems, sometimes resulting in death.

Surgeons used cocaine as a local anesthetic over a century ago. Today, except in certain kinds of nose and throat surgery, the use of cocaine in surgery has been replaced by synthetic, local anesthetics. The use of cocaine as an illegal stimulant of the central nervous system, however, has grown to alarming proportions in recent years, prompting drug enforcement officials to redouble their efforts in combating the growth, importation, distribution, and sale of the drug.

Cocaine gained widespread acceptance in the 1970's when it was viewed as a harmless "recreational" drug that produced the desired "high" without the danger of addiction or typical drug-related side effects. Many persons in the public eye-movie stars and sports heroes, for example-were users of cocaine. It quickly became fashionable in other sectors of society, especially among those who could easily afford its once high price. Before the price came down, cocaine use was directly associated with wealth and success. Those who used the drug claimed that the cocaine rush not only produced the intended euphoric "high," but also resulted in higher levels of performance in whatever activity they happened to be engaged in.

Addiction. Since the 1970's and early 1980's, scientific research and painful experience have demonstrated that cocaine, far from being a harmless recreational drug, is not only highly addictive, but also very dangerous, even potentially lethal. Further, the much-touted euphoria and elevation of performance levels have turned out to be either transitory or illusory.

According to research done by the American Council for Drug Education, cocaine affects the same part of the brain that reinforces basic instinctual drives such as hunger, thirst, and sexual desire. This is the brain's "reward center." Cocaine causes the release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain's nerve endings. When the level of dopamine increases, the reward center is falsely notified that a basic need has been satisfied; the reward center then provides the pleasure response or euphoric high. With the repeated use of cocaine, the reward center is "reprogrammed," thus encouraging the user to obtain and use more cocaine to supplant survival-oriented drives.

Once a person's brain has accepted cocaine as necessary to basic survival, that person is addicted, and the drive to obtain and use cocaine takes precedence over important areas of life, such as nutrition, sleep, sex, and career. According to the American Council for Drug Education, cocaine addiction is characterized by four major features: cravings and compulsions to obtain and use the drug; inability to limit or control use; continued use despite adverse consequences; and denial that the problem exists.

Of the many serious problems associated with cocaine addiction, one of the more apparent ones is the "crash" that follows the "high." Though the level of dopamine initially rises when a person takes cocaine, producing the "high," it soon falls off, dropping to a level below normal and producing the "crash." With repeated use of the drug, an overall depletion of dopamine levels occurs and chronic depression sets in, a familiar state in the person who is addicted to cocaine. The addict requires ever-increasing amounts of the drug to attain the desired high. Eventually, however, the addict's tolerance reaches a level so high that no amount of cocaine will produce euphoria.

Side effects of cocaine use can include a substantial drop in weight because of loss of appetite. Addicts who inhale cocaine often develop sensitive and ulcerated nasal membranes. This can even lead to a perforation of the nasal septum. Addicts who inject cocaine intravenously are also at greater risk for contracting infectious diseases, such as AIDS, due to the habit of sharing needles and syringes. Among the psychological effects are irritability, sleeplessness, paranoid thoughts, and possible full-blown, paranoid psychosis.

Persons who lack the enzyme cholinesterase have an extreme sensitivity to cocaine and can be poisoned by very small amounts. Cocaine deaths are usually caused by severe disturbances of the heart rhythm (ventricular fibrillation), heart attack (myocardial infarction), repeated convulsions, or depression of the respiratory center in the brain.

Crack. A form of cocaine, known by its street name of "crack" or "rock," has emerged as an even greater menace than cocaine in its more familiar powdered form. Crack is freebase cocaine, a smokable form of the drug, that has been extracted ("freed") from the hydrochloride salt of cocaine and formed into pellets using baking soda and water. The name comes from the cracking sound the drug makes when heated and smoked.

Cocaine taken in this way is rapidly and efficiently absorbed into the bloodstream. It reaches the brain in 8 to 10 seconds and, in this concentrated form, produces a very rapid and intense high. The high lasts only a few minutes, however, so the user requires another dose very soon to sustain the high. Repeated doses of the highly concentrated form of the drug cause the user to become addicted very quickly.

With crack, all the medical and psychological problems produced by powdered cocaine are magnified. The extremely high levels of cocaine in the blood greatly increase the possibility of serious toxic reactions, such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, fever, and potentially fatal brain seizures. Among serious respiratory problems suffered by crack smokers are wheezing, chest congestion, chronic cough, and impairment of lung function. Psychological consequences often include radical changes in personality and behavior, which can range all the way from irritability and withdrawal to paranoid reactions and suicidal behavior.

Want The Quickest Bachelors Degree? Shave Years Off Your Education With This Easy Strategy

Looking to get your bachelor degree in the quickest possible time? The way to do it is to complete your education through one of the numerous online bachelor degree courses available. Through these programs it is possible to earn your online bachelor degree in under two years so long as you put in the required effort and satisfy all the subject requirements along the way.

The reason so many students are aiming to find the quickest bachelor degree program is simple. The more quickly you complete your education, the sooner you can start establishing yourself in your chosen career path and achieving some of your life goals and ambitions. It is no wonder so many people are looking for ways to accelerate the education process and get on with their life.

So how do you actually get your degree in record time? You need to find courses that offer an accelerated learning option. There are numerous online bachelor degree programs available through a multitude of schools and colleges that give you the ability to earn your bachelors degree in a reduced time frame. These accelerated online degree programs give you the information you require in a compressed form which for you means you learn quickly without trawling through textbooks and materials that are not relevant to your course curriculum.

Another benefit of the best online degree programs is that you set your own timetable. The classes are stored online which means you can access them 24/7 and study when it suits you. This allows you to move through the courses at your own pace. The more work you are prepared to do and the more quickly you can learn the required skills, the faster you will get through the subjects.

This is a huge advantage of completing your education online. If you are willing to put in the work you can move through your online course as fast as you want. You can take additional subjects, do double the work and get your degree in half the time, It’s that simple (although there are a number of other steps that can reduce the time frame further).

To find the quickest online degree programs is quite simple as being online courses, the majority of course information can be found online. Virtually all of the universities, colleges and schools offering online courses have websites that you can seek out and get some general information on the course structure, and determine whether or not the course is available in an accelerated format. The websites will also have contact information so you can ask questions directly about the courses to ensure they are suitable for you.

It is important to ensure that the online program you are enrolling is accredited and recognized within industry authorities and both the private and public employment sector relating to that course. Try to get an understanding of the reputation of that particular educational institution. You need to ensure that the accelerated learning system still provides a high quality education that will both serve you well as the foundation of your career and is respected by others.

When you have decided on an accelerated online bachelor degree program the key to finishing it as quickly as possible is to get started immediately. The sooner you start, the sooner you will finish. Enrolling into a course is quite simple and can usually be done online. Once enrolled, you will be able to select your subjects and commence your classes right away. It is then up to you to put in the work and complete your degree which will give you the qualifications and knowledge you need to get started building a successful and rewarding career in your chosen profession.
About the Author:
John Maxted is an expert in accelerated education and his website has direct links to the quickest online degrees accessible to you right now. At Johns’s site you can also access more info about online bachelor degrees and post graduate education as well as valuable career advice and guidance.

School For Disable Children In India

Netraheen Vikas Sansthan (Blind School Jodhpur-Rajasthan-India )is working for rehabilitation of disable and blind students since last 31 years in Suncity Jodhpur by providing free education with boarding and lodging facility separately for boys and Girls. The School for disable children was started on 15th August 1977 with only two blind students the number of which has gone to 247 at present out of which 90 are girls.NVS is the only institute in Rajasthan that has hostel facility for girls. The school is up to senior secondary level . All the teachers are well trained and highly qualified and many of them are blind too. The result of 10th and 12th Board exams itself speaks about the school as it has always been maintained at 100% since beginning of school. The Students of the school have been awarded several times Medals and Prizes not only at National, State and District level but also at International level in the field of various Education, Sports and Music competitions.

Society for Development of the Blind ( Indian Blind School)
Human body is very important and invaluable in one’s life. Eyes are the most precious amongst the different organs. One has to face in many difficulties in absence of eyes. Imagine the life one has to live without seeing the beauty of rising sun, deprived of enjoyment of observing the beauty of blooming flowers and even unable to see the face of his mother. Here one can truly realize Rajasthan proverb “The wearer knows where the shoe pinches.” It is well said that there can not be any kith and kin of a blind person except his intellectual eyes developed in him otherwise in absence of it he has to be fully dependent for every routine work upon others. No one can provide eyes to the blind but proper training can make them self-reliant and self- dependent. Realizing the painful sufferings of the blind this Sansthan (Society) was started, with 2 children on 15th August 1977 in this historic Suncity, Jodhpur. It has its own constitution and also anyone giving help to this society will enjoy exemption from income tax under 80-G.

Computer Education
School has recently established a fully air conditioned Computer Lab with the help of respected NRI donor Mr.Premchand Gadda & his friends from USA having 17 computers equipped with all latest hardware & software useful for blind .Compauters as a subject is compulsory for classes 6th to 12th and the basic course classes are taken by the trained teachers. Recently the School has started a three month Certificate course in association with Polytechnic College, Jodhpur. 14 students have completed this course during the session 2007-08 .

Deaf & Dumb , Mentally Retarded and Blind Unit
A multi purpose disabled unit namely Acharya Hasti multipurpose disable unit was started on 15th August 2006 in association with Department of Social Welfare, Government of Rajasthan for rehabilitation of deaf & dumb, mentally retarded and blind students with 25 students. At present there are total 60 students who are provided free lodging. Boarding and education. There are three trained teachers & physiotherapists to teach them by aid of Hearing machines and various other necessary equipments. The students are trained in making Photo Frames, Canning of Chairs, Painting and Sewing work also.

Computer Training
With the help of NRI Mr. Premchand Gadda and his friends from USA, the institution has established a Modern Computer lab that is well equipped with the latest software and hardware helpful for the blind students where 6th to 12th standard students are learning computer by the well trained computer teacher and they are also taking three month special training in computer organized by Polytechnic College, Jodhpur.

Physical Training
Different Physical exercise, Dumbles, Laizium, Weight lifting, Races, Cricket, slide sphere throw, Disc throw, Kabbadi, Kho-Kho etc, games and sports are provided to the students to keep them physically fit. Some of the boys have won prizes at regional, national and international level. On international level, five prizes have been won by our students at American Pan Games tournaments in Boston (USA).

Cultural Program
Occasions like Independence Day, Republic Day, Handicapped Day, Social welfare week, Gandhi Jayanti, Loullic Braille Birth Day are celebrated with full preparation and enthusiasm in which the art and cultural level of the blind students are some times so high that even the Spectators are amazed to see that level of art. They also take part in cultural competitions held at state as well as national level s that they may gain more efficiency and self confidence.

Blind school Facilities

Separate Hostels for blind Boys & Girls
There is separate hostel facility available for girls and boys. During 1998-99 a hostel building was constructed for girls with co-operation of District Rural Development Agency and Donors. Three Wardens, peons, cooks and cleaners are also appointed. A good dinning hall with all the modern facilities is available. The students are served energetic break fast, lunch and dinner and a special diet once in a week.

School for Blind Boys and Girls
School building was constructed with the help of economic assistance by the social welfare department which provides education, training as well as hostel facilities to girls. Here we have total 21 trained teachers out of which 9 are blind. All the study materials and training is provided Free of cost to the students.

List of facilities provided to the Blind

Teaching through Braille system by the trained teachers

To provide free boarding and lodging facilities.

To make available medical check up and medical facilities

To provide Radio, Television, Musical instruments, Tape recorder, Playing cards, chess and cricket kit material.

To provide Braille watch, talking books etc.

To provide Braille books library.

To provide water cooler for safe drinking water.

To take the students to different cultural and historic places for excursions.

Why Should you go with Us ?
Netraheen Vikas Sansthan (NGO) commits for Well developed, educated and technology updated environment for blind students and youth. Institute encourages physically disabled students (Deaf and dumb) for education and develops himself/herself to live with society.

Future plan:

To start B.Ed classes.

Separate building for mentally retarded students.

Separate Building for Deaf and Dumb students.

To keep the strength for Deaf and Dumb according to norms.

To employ a P.T.I.

To keep one trained English Teacher.

To install Mini Brail Press Software.

Extension of Museum.

Extension of existing lab.

To purchase sports articles, cricket ball, foot ball and toys.

To purchase Musical Instruments

Our Mission
We are working for physically disabled children and youth. We want to provide more facilities to disabled person and for handling all those requirements we need your support in cases like manual services.

About Founder

A multifaceted diamond in Social work, Academic institutions and Voluntary agencies Mrs. SUSHILA BOHRA was borned on 20th May 1940 at Jodhpur in a reputed Jain marwari family of Shri M.R.Dhariwal (RAS Retired). After sad demise of her husband late Paras Mal Bohra at an early age just after marriage in the year 1962 she further studied and started her professional carrier by joining Vanasthali Vidhyapeeth College near Jaipur (Raj) in year 1966 and later on served as Lecturer in Mahesh Teachers Training College,Jodhpur from 1967 -84 . Due to her dedication in social work she was selected by Government of Rajasthan as Project Director, District Women Development Agency, Jodhpur in 1984 working for upliftment of women from where she retired in year 1999 after having one Years extension from Govt.of Rajasthan.

Mrs. Sushila Bohra is a renowned social worker giving her valuable services to many Social ,educational and religious Institutions. She is Founder President of Netraheen Vikas Sansthan ( A School for Blinds ) , Bal Shobha Sansthan (An Orphanage home) , Samgra Vikas Sansthan ( A khadhi Institute ) , President of Gandhi Peace foundation Center , Founder Honorary Secretary of “ SAMBAL “ (An institute for self employment of women) , Managing trustee of Parasmal Sushila Bohra Charitable Trust, Executive Member of Deaf & Dumb School, Navjeewan Sansthan ( A Destitute Home ) and Jodhpur Nagrik Society “ Jodhana” . She has remained Honorary member of Rotary Club of Jodhpur and Joint Secretary of Mahaveer International .

Appeal For Donation To Viewers
As present we are having 247 blind children and 61 deaf & dumb and mentally retarded students with us. Many more blind children are in need of proper care & education, but we are unable to admit them because of shortage of school & hostel accommodation, additional play grounds, additional teachers & house keeping staff, furniture and other infrastructure facilities. It has its own constitution and also anyone giving help to this society will enjoy exemption from income tax under 80-G.
Financial help which we get from the state Government is not sufficient to meet the growing needs and expenditure of this Institute. The respected donors are the only hope for us to meet the gap. So we humbly request not only to contribute generously for upliftment of disabled persons but also to convince your nearer and dears to visit the Web Site and motivate them to contribute for this noble cause. Your support is also solicited in giving us suggestions for better running the NGO.

Daylight And Fresh Air Within School Lecture Rooms

The unfavorable impact associated with bad interior o2 quality (IAQ) and also a not enough sun light on the health and productiveness associated with building occupants are generally well known, and can be particularly damaging to small children which spend roughly 12% of their day time in school buildings, more than in any building type besides their particular homes. Within the school, children are subject to a selection of contaminants that originate from interior sources, for instance furnishings, IT components, along with bio-effluents, and from those that are usually introduced from outside, for instance nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. The chance of small children to experience long-lasting damage is increased simply because most of the tissue and bodily organs tend to be still growing, they will breath more air compared to their own body mass as compared to adults, and air-flow rates within university classrooms in many cases are discovered to be under those that are recommended. Furthermore, low levels of daylight are usually linked to depression, inadequate vitamin D synthesis, along with lessened productivity.

New school buildings are built to stringent criteria plus this is relatively easy to perform when starting with a blank canvas. It is usually more difficult to meet UK specifications whenever retro fitting existing school structures or even when renovating existing non-domestic buildings to use as educational institutions. However, all school buildings should meet government specifications and here expertise matters. Monodraught happen to have been developing natural ventilation and daylight strategies for brand new and also pre-existing school properties for nearly 15 years and in that time period the company has quickly responded to completely new and improved procedures and methods, and also to the numerous modifications that have been made to the Building Bulletin guidelines (there are currently more than 30 documents) for school design from the 8 Secretaries of State for Education who've held office. In addition Monodraught has representatives on the management committee with the Chartered Institute of Building Services (CIBSE) Schools Design Group that aims to improve the structure, procedure, as well as environmental quality regarding education structures by disseminating info relevant to their designers and operators.

Monodraught natural ventilation systems are already installed in in excess of 1100 schools and daylight systems in more than 3,000 colleges. Moreover, the overall performance associated with the ventilation and daylight systems has been thoroughly researched by Brunel as well as Nottingham Universities and the conclusions printed throughout peer reviewed publications. Monodraught is committed to the study and development of its products for them to be used as part of a system of procedures to provide healthy and productive interior surroundings in restored and also remodelled school classrooms.

Tuition Free Universities - Attend A Top School Free!

Many of the tuition free universities are found in Europe, where this practice of 'education for all' is very widespread. . One example of a tuition free college is the Jonkoping International Business School. Located in Sweden, the Jonkoping International Business School is a city-based institution that offers IT, management, business admin, legal studies and poly-sci studies. Bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees are offered, and most of the classes are in English. The school is relatively small, with a total enrollment of about 2000 students, of which 25% are international students.
Just like the Jonkoping International Business School, many other tuition free colleges have strong English support due to the . Not all of these academic establishments focus on business though. There is a wide range of degrees and programs provided around the world, including computer science, IT, and engineering degrees.
In addition, such high quality programs as medical school are offered. In order to participate in a free study abroad program, be aware that a list of prerequisites awaits you. First things being first, any prospective student needs to contact the embassy of his or her host country to acquire a student visa. Secondly, make sure to check with the university regarding any entry exams or grade requirements. All in all, the aspiration of attending college shouldn't be hindered with tuition, and in the case of the many tuition free universities around the world, it doesn't have to be. Finding out more about these top schools can present wonderful opportunities for you.

Free Tuition - A Top School At No Cost!

Many schools in America - schools that few people know of - are actually 100 percent tuition tuition free. Schools like Berea College, City University of New York's Teacher Academy, College of the Ozarks, Cooper Union, Curtis Institute of Music, Deep Springs College, Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, are among the better known. There are also tuition free schools found in Europe, where this practice of 'education for all' is even more widespread . One example of a tuition free college is the Jonkoping International Business School. Located in Sweden, the Jonkoping International Business School is an urban university that offers degrees in informatics, economics, business administration, commercial law, and political science studies. Bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees are offered, and most of the classes are in English. The school is relatively small, with a total enrollment of about 2000 students, of which 25% are international students.
Just like the Jonkoping International Business School, many schools offering free tuition have strong English support due to the extensive number of international students. Not all of these academic establishments focus on business though. There is a wide range of degrees and programs offered up around the world, including computer science, IT, and engineering degrees.
Another superb schools is the University of Stockholm. This top-of-class institution has international programs where the language of instruction is in English. Finland, Norway and even a few key schools in Scotland also have a tuition free scheme that benefits those looking to study abroad for free or virtually free (meaning the cost of tuition is either waived or negligible).
In addition, such high quality programs as medical school are offered. In order to participate in a free study abroad program, be aware that a list of prerequisites awaits you. First things being first, any aspiring student needs to contact the consulate of his or her host country to acquire a student visa. Secondly, make sure to check with the university regarding any entry exams or grade requirements. All in all, the ambition of attending college shouldn't be handicapped with tuition, and in the case of the numerous tuition free universities around the world, it doesn't have to be. Learning more about these colleges offers you splendidamazing opportunities few know about.

A Better India By Imparting Education For Slum Children

India is a developing country. The main factor that has made India a developing country is its poor educational field leading to illiteracy and subsequently poverty. These are the two main problems India is facing at the moment. More than 80% of the population in India depends on agriculture and out of this number; about 60% of the population is illiterate. Thus, the basis of all major problems is illiteracy.

It is extremely important that females be educated so that they can play a pivotal role in the development of their children’s characters When a female is educated she attains knowledge, gains power that helps in herself development .When she has a family it influences her family life in various ways. This helps the society to improve and develop in all aspects .This gradually leads the country to progress and achieve its goals. When a female is educated she helps educate many generations through her own knowledge and talents. Therefore, literacy and good education can solve many of the problems of developing countries .In all aspects education is an essential factor that helps in bringing about various changes to ourselves as human beings and also to the society. Through education, we can achieve all that we want and can work on saving our precious resources to meet growing demands of the population.

As mentioned earlier, poverty is one of the major problems that India faces. When speaking about population the first thing that comes to our minds is the slums in India. Today slum dwellers make up for about 60% of Mumbai's population that is about 7 million people. These slums mainly spread into the areas neighboring Byculla, such as: Parel, Mahim Creek, Dadar and Matunga and wherever else they can find space, even on roads. The conditions in the slums are dreadful. Slum inhabitants constantly have to deal with issues such as, lack of water, no sewage or solid waste facilities, constant migration, lack of public transit, poor education, pollution and housing shortages. Infant mortality is very high in rural areas of India where there are no amenities.

In order to deal with the menace of poverty and illiteracy, many NGOs in India have come up with programs whereby imparting education for slum children.

These NGOs provide all the students with free education including free study material, free uniform and free occasional medical checkups. Some NGOs are running schools in various city slums with foreign assistance. They are playing a key role in imparting education for slum children but there is always a question about the standard of education in those schools as there is a lack of regular monitoring, education materials and skilled manpower. The Central Government of India is also playing a crucial role in providing education for slum children. It has also announced that a new welfare scheme has been created , which will with immediate effect eliminate and eradicate, all problems of slum children, including poverty, lack of education and health facilities, child labor and abuse. This program is also concentrating on providing education for the slum children, who could make a decent life for themselves in the future

IDAHO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS MAKE STRIDES IN MATHEMATICS

Idaho’s high school seniors have shown gains in mathematics since 2009, according to the most recent results of the Nation’s Report Card. Despite the positive gains, the most recent results still show far too many Idaho students are graduating from high school unprepared for the rigors of college or career.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), commonly referred to as the Nation’s Report Card, is typically administered to a sample of 4th and 8th grade students in every state every two years to measure academic progress in mathematics and reading. Idaho was one of 13 states to participate in a pilot of the 12th-grade NAEP.

Among these states, Idaho was one of just four states in which students posted higher average math scores in 2013 than they did four years ago. In 2013, the average score of Idaho high school seniors in mathematics was 156, which is higher than the average score of 153 in 2009.

“I am pleased to see Idaho’s high school seniors making gains in mathematics in recent years. I believe this is a direct result of the Idaho Math Initiative, which has worked since 2008 to provide targeted professional development to Idaho’s teachers and more opportunities to every Idaho student to ensure we raise academic achievement across all grade levels,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said. “I applaud every Idaho teacher, parent and student for this success, but it is clear we have more work to do to make sure every child graduates from high school prepared for the rigors of college and career.”

Despite the positive gains in mathematics, the data shows that just 24 percent of Idaho’s 12th grade students scored at or above proficient – or on grade level – in mathematics, according to the 2013 NAEP results.

In reading, Idaho’s high school seniors continued to outpace the nation, but they did not show significant growth over 2009. An estimated 41 percent of Idaho’s 12th grade students scored at or above proficient – or on grade level – in reading, according to the most recent results.

The results mirror what Idaho has seen on the SAT over the past two years where an estimated one in four high school juniors taking the exam have met college- and career-readiness benchmarks set by the College Board.

Idaho is working to address these challenges in several ways, including raising academic standards through the implementation of the higher, more rigorous Idaho Core Standards in mathematics and English language arts.

NAEP is currently the only assessment that can compare student achievement across multiple states, but that will change when Idaho fully transitions to the new Smarter Balanced Assessment next year. The Smarter Balanced Assessment will replace the previous ISAT to measure students against the new Common Core State Standards, which Idaho adopted in 2011, and will give Idaho a more accurate measure of how Idaho students perform academically compared to students in other states in future years.

Click here to learn more about the Nation’s Report Card results.

Click here to learn more about the Idaho Core Standards or Smarter Balanced Assessment.

Choosing The Right Tax Cpe Course

The number of providers of web-based enrolled agent CPE has more than tripled over the past 15 years. Thousands of enrolled agent courses are now available online, many instantaneously, offering EAs and other tax professionals convenient and cost-effective options for meeting their continuing education tax requirements. But with so many options at their fingertips, some EAs are finding it hard to pick the right provider and course load. "It's great that we can go online to take a course that satisfies CPE requirement," said John Knoll, an EA out of Charlotte, NC. "But it's hard to know what's good and what's not."

This article outlines a number of factors that enrolled agents should consider when selecting a provider of tax continuing education.

First Thing First - What's Required? (Circular 320)

All EAs must complete 72 hours of continuing professional education every 3 years. A minimum of 16 hours is required each year, with an average of 24 hours per year, and 2 hours of ethics.

Circular 320 contains a relatively narrow definition of continuing profession education and what counts as EA CPE. For a CPE course to count, it must enhance professional knowledge in Federal taxation and-tax related matters. Accounting, tax software, taxation, and ethics all satisfy CPE course requirements under Circular 320. This means that courses in State tax, practice building and management do not satisfy these requirements.

It goes without saying that the first consideration in picking a potential CPE provider is evaluating whether its tax CPE curriculum meets these guidelines.

But an effective continuing professional education program should amount to much than simply satisfying IRS requirements. The best programs pay! The real value of CPE credits should be gauged in terms of the number of new clients served, and the additional revenue enrolled agents accrue when new found skills allow them to better serve existing clients. In this way, a good provider of CPE will to help expand the range of an enrolled agent's services.

Online CPE Courses the Cheapest

Online CPE accounting courses are well known for providing cheap CPE credits. In fact, these courses are usually 25 to 35 % less expensive than in-person or classroom courses. Like these more traditional forms, online CPE courses cover the basics of federal taxation that test the understanding and abilities of the EA. But the true test of any tax CPE course - online or classroom - is whether or not it offers the right substance to expand the skill set of an EA? Just because a course offers 6 or 7 hours of CPE credits for a hundred dollars, or satisfies IRS professional continuing education requirements, doesn't mean it will further a career is the best way possible.

There are a host of other factors to consider when taking online CPE courses.

Webinars

Blended learning, a form of instruction that combines online tools with alternate types of traditional instruction, is an approach that is becoming more commonplace in this arena. Many online providers, for example, are incorporating webinars into their CPE course offerings. This format always EAs to receive top-notch "LIVE" instruction (by popular instructors who can serve greater numbers of people) without having to travel, leave the home or office and incur travel and food expenses. The quality of these programs continues to improve as providers as more companies realize a cost-savings associated with their virtual infrastructure.

The Perfect Mix

The consensus view among industry insiders seems to be that inexpensive online CPE should not be the overriding factor in choosing a tax CPE course provider. Rather a mixture of cheap online courses with webinars, live seminars and conferences is a better solution for providing advanced learning, meeting IRS requirements, and keeping the budget in place. " This approach allows us to get the classroom experience, and to interact with our peers while also giving us the flexibility of working local," said EA John Knoll.

Other Considerations

Experts strongly recommend that an enrolled agent consider using multiple CPE providers to broaden the learning reach. EAs should also carefully research the provider, read student reviews, and study their policies. This process should also entail uncovering how long they have been in operation, and what the refund policy is. Online CPE courses should be accessible from any computer, but not all are.

Not All Courses Are Created Equal

For online CPE courses, EAs should inquire about the following items before enrolling:

Is there a fee for re-enrollment if exam is failed

Is a certificate of completion provided

Are course material and exams printable from the web

Verify the CPE credits are allowed in EA's state

Practical Tips for Choosing Online CPE Providers

Final considerations before enrolling in a tax CPE course include:

Sign up for complimentary courses to ensure the provider's courses are suitable

Shop around and compare the various services and products of at least two or three providers (this will increase the odds of finding the best provider)

Don't get suckered into automatically selecting the least expensive offerings

Idaho Students Donate To Fight Meth During Idaho Gives Day

On Idaho Gives Day, students across Idaho raised more than $1,000 for the Idaho Meth Project – all through solving complex math problems!

Through Idaho’s Math Initiative, which started in 2008, students in Idaho’s public schools use Think Through Math, an award-winning software system to supplement their in-class math instruction. With Think Through Math, students can turn points they earn for studying math into donations to charities. For every 5,000 points a student earns, they can donate one dollar to a charity of their choice.

On Thursday, May 1, during the annual Idaho Gives online giving event, students participating in Think Through Math donated $1,222 to the Idaho Meth Project, which works to combat drug abuse.

While students across Idaho contributed, five classes donated more than any others.

• The Watkins Homeroom 2 class, Twin Lakes Elementary School, Lakeland Joint School District
• The Miss Clark 2013 class, Syringa Elementary School, Pocatello/Chubbuck School District
• The A. Eiden Montessori class, Liberty Elementary School, Boise School District
• The Bellomy 6B class, White Pine Elementary School, Boise School District
• The Elsberry class, Eagle Hills Elementary School, Meridian School District

Congratulations to all of these students, and thank you for your generosity!

I-STEM EARNS INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADES

For several years, Idaho teachers have been attending i-STEM workshops where they work side-by-side with leaders in Idaho’s business and industry to gain skills and knowledge on how to integrate more science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) into their classrooms.

Now, i-STEM has earned an international award for its innovative approach on professional development.

The International Association for STEM Leaders recognized Dr. Louis Nadelson of Boise State University and Anne Seifert of Idaho National Laboratory last week with the STEM Professional Development Leadership Award for creating i-STEM and providing professional development to more than 1,750 teachers across Idaho.

Dr. Nadelson said the award came as a “complete surprise.”

“This has been the work of many people. I have a wonderful team that includes people from K-12, state government, higher education, and business and industry. I feel lucky to provide leadership and vision toward this,” he said.

The International Association presented 15 awards in total last week, including the award to Idaho’s i-STEM team. “This award shows we are on the right track, and we are at the forefront here in Idaho to address STEM education in a meaningful way,” Dr. Nadelson said. 

i-STEM is a coordinated statewide effort by the State Department of Education, Idaho Professional-Technical Education, educators, businesses, and industry to support STEM education in grades K-12. The goal is to provide professional development opportunities that help Idaho’s teachers gain STEM content knowledge and learn activities that increase student interest and achievement in technical subjects. Specifically, i-STEM focuses on inquiry-based problem-solving and inquiry-based learning on topics of interest to Idaho, its industries and their needs.

“Congratulations to the i-STEM team for this well-deserved recognition. Through i-STEM, the education community has partnered with business and industry in an unprecedented way to help nearly 2,000 Idaho teachers as they integrate STEM education into K-12 classrooms. As a result, our students will be better prepared to go onto college and into the workforce and not need remediation once they get there,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said. “I am proud that others across the country – and the world – have recognized this innovative work.”

If you want to learn more about i-STEM, check out our video online.