Back To School

This year more than ever before, back to school has snuck right up on us with an early “deadline” to get everything in order. This includes all ages and “types” of students, from little ones starting their first day of preschool or Kindergarten to adult students returning to the classroom to pursue any number of professional degree programs, certifications, or continuing education units. Preparation is key to success, and when it comes to all things related to heading back to school, there are plenty of things to get nailed down prior to or within the first couple of months of the school year.

Getting a Head Start

Kindergarten definitely isn’t the first time many children will be exposed to organized learning opportunities these days. In fact, a majority of parents are getting their kids involved in a classroom environment where they are learning and socially engaged at a very early age—even as infants! Dawn Robinson M.Ed, Director of World of Knowledge Child Development Center and Preschool, explains, “Here at World of Knowledge, we start working with the Early Learning Guidelines at age 6 weeks, our sign language program at age 6 weeks and our preschool program starts at age 1.  We use individual assessments to help the teachers develop their curriculum around the needs of the child.  As they become age 3-5, we follow the Nebraska State Standards for Kindergarten which helps us to prepare each child for school on an educational, social, emotional, and developmental level.  After each school year passes, we continue with learning through our school-age summer program which still incorporates fun as well as education throughout the entire summer. During the summer we also offer soccer, dance and cheer clinics, music class, and “Jump Bunch.”

Our school-age summer program consists of four field trips a week which includes both educational field trips such as Tree Adventure, Homestead National Monument, and those that go along with our theme units as well as fun field trips such as roller skating, mini golf, and bowling.  We also get involved with the summer reading program with the Lincoln City Libraries.

One of the major advantages of our program is that all of our classrooms are very structured with educational based curriculum from 6 weeks up to age 12 years.  During the school year, we have Homework Club where we work with children on their homework, which helps to free up time in the evening at home so that families can focus on being together in the evening instead of having to work on homework. We also use a character building curriculum throughout the school year and summer to help strengthen the children’s interaction and social skills, which will help them throughout their adult lives.”

She advises, “Especially for kids that will be going back to school, I always tell parents to try and establish a bedtime routine two weeks before school starts that way it won’t become such a shock when they have to start going to bed earlier.  If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten, and they are still taking some sort of nap, make sure to slowly take their nap time away so that their bodies get used to going to school all day. Also, help your child become or stay independent by giving them chores to do around the house, which will support their routine when transitioning back to school.”

After School Activities

Activities that support learning outside of the classroom are just as important as the learning that goes on in it, so achieving a healthy balance between the two is key. Extra-curricular activities are a must for many reasons; a few of which are cultivating a new skill or talent, releasing stress and staying physically active, meeting new people and enhancing friendships, and simply doing something that you enjoy with your precious free time. There are a wide range of options to consider, so it all just depends on what you have your heart set on and/or what you want to get out of the experience.

Dance lessons are one of the classic after school activities that truly have no age limit. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, looking for a fun new experience, testing the waters to see if you like a certain style, or laying the groundwork for a professional career in the future, you can find the perfect program tailored to your specific goals and schedule at Lincoln DanceCentre.

“In traditional school settings, children spend much of their day sitting and taking in information,” explains Monya DeBoer, owner of Lincoln DanceCentre. “Many extra-curricular activities focus on physical activity or creative expression, both outlets that students may not have ample opportunity to engage in during school hours. Extra-curricular activities provide a balance for students throughout the school year and can also be a pathway to future career. With dance, students may find they are passionate about anatomy and then pursue a career in physical therapy or love performance and seek out opportunities with professional companies.

At Lincoln DaneCentre, students have the opportunity to have a physical outlet and a creative outlet all in one place. Physical activity is at the center of dance training, but students also learn how to tell a story through movement, communicate feelings, and how to problem solve with movement. Students are able to learn in a supportive and creative manner that allows for positive personal development. Lincoln DanceCentre also offers a home school program during the day. The home school classes are structured just like the evening classes and are primarily taught by the owners. The home school program is a great way for students to fulfill their arts and physical education course work.
For our youth students, our curriculum is centered around classical ballet training. Classical ballet is the foundation for most dance forms and will develop students’ kinesthetic awareness, attention to detail, muscular foundation for other movement forms, and poise. We also offer Modern, Contemporary, Tap, and Jazz classes, which are equally important in creating a well-rounded dancer. Lincoln DanceCentre offers classes for students looking to dance for fun, or for pre-professional/collegiate training. For students entering the program ages 7 and up, Lincoln DanceCentre owners will speak with the parents, evaluate the student’s technique and their goals, and then recommend the proper placement for their student. Individual placement is a priority at the studio to endure the best learning environment and experience for the student. For ages 3-6, students will learn how to find creative ways to move, basic dance steps, rhythm and spatial awareness.

For adult students, Adult Ballet classes are open to all levels. If someone is new to dance, or is returning to dance, classes are structured to be inclusive for everyone. Respecting everyone’s busy lifestyles, for adults, we offer punch cards so they can attend when it fits in their schedule. There is also the opportunity to engage in Ballroom Dance classes and workshops through Dance Lincoln at the studio, no partner required!”

She further advises, “When preparing kids to go back to school make sure to balance their schedule. Extra-curricular activities are important, but time at home with family and just being able to play outside is important too. Over scheduling kids can be detrimental to their development and can cause burnout and injuries in extra-curricular activities. We often see students involved in so many activities that they are rarely home and they are constantly stressed. When kids are young, have them try a number of activities during different seasons to find what they like. As they get older, it is ok to pick one activity they love to specialize in. With dance as an example, that would include technique classes, strength training, and mobility work, but multiple sports and activities all year round can be daunting for kids even though they really want to be involved in it all.

Make sure you are involved with an organization that offers a program with a commitment level that is in line with your family’s needs and that understands the impact of age appropriate training for your student.”

Sports and fitness are also popular pastimes for all ages, with a diverse range of options from leagues to shooting a few hoops in between classes. The common denominator is to stay physically active so that you stay healthy throughout the mental demands of your rigorous studies and educational endeavors. So whether you’re dancing, playing sports, hitting the gym, hitting the trails, or taking a walk in the neighborhood with your canine companion, there’s plenty of ways that we can all stay active and fit even though its generally necessary to sit at a desk for a majority of the day.

“Staying active is important for all of us,” emphasizes Diane Hesson, owner of Play It Again Sports. “Both your mind and body benefit when you add some form of physical activity to your daily routine.  We live in such a busy world that we often forget to take care of ourselves the way we should.  Eating healthy and exercising tend to be the first thing we sacrifice.  If you have the opportunity to get involved in a team sport that you enjoy, that often forces you to participate on a regular basis in some form of physical activity.  The key word there is ENJOY.  Find that activity that is fun yet allows you to develop socially, mentally and physically.  At Play It Again Sports, we have everything for the sports enthusiast.  For those young kids that haven’t quite found their niche or want to stay active year round, we offer an affordable way to achieve that.  Our staff can help outfit you or your athlete for just about any sport along with plenty of fitness gear to help you meet your goals.”

Finding The Right Program

In the modern times and economy we are living in, while many high school students are still choosing to move directly on to college, there is far more diversity in terms of the spectrum of “non-traditional” students that are pursuing a post-secondary education across an ever-growing list of study areas, degree programs, trade-specific certifications, and job training requirements.

When considering which program will be the right fit for you, it’s crucial to do your homework about the college(s) you’re considering. Kat Kreikemeier, Director of Admissions and Career Advising at Southeast Community College, advises, “Make sure to ask about their programs, application requirements, placement tests (ACT, SAT, COMPASS), tuition costs, and financial aid processes. That way, you’ll know exactly what to expect at every step along the way! One of the best things that students can do is to meet with an advisor at any school they are considering. This will give them firsthand information about programs, the college they are considering, and application requirements. More importantly, it gives students a chance to have their questions answered, plus pick up on ‘bonus information’–information that the advisor knows that you need to know, but maybe don’t know to ask!

Students should consider their interests and how those interests align with the college’s academic offerings. It’s important to make sure that students can achieve their educational goals at the institution(s) they are considering. Students should also consider their life needs: day or evening classes, online programs, financial aid and scholarships, etc., and how the college’s programs fit those needs. Southeast Community College has 51 diverse educational programs that include diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees that will fit almost any interest, from culinary arts to welding technology to dental assisting and geographic information systems technology. Many of the programs have flexible scheduling and online course offerings that provide students with options to fit many schedule needs.”

She adds, “For those who have made a decision about the school they will be attending, you’ll also want to see an advisor as soon as possible to get the information you need to make your plan a reality! Once you’ve made the decision to go back to school and the process is in motion, you also have to look at how your program and class schedule will fit with all the other things in your life: work, relationships, children, community involvement, etc. and then make a plan to keep yourself on track. Sometimes that means making temporary adjustments in priorities, but it can be done, especially with help and support from others. Tell the important people in your life about your decision to return to school so that they can support you and your goals. Also, use your resources at the school you’re planning to attend. There are many professionals who are experts in helping students succeed. Ask questions of those individuals and let them assist you.

Making the decision to attend college, whether you’ve recently graduated from high school or are returning to school after several years, is the hardest part of the process. Once the decision has been made, there are several people along the way who will be ready to help you no matter the situation. All you have to do is ask!”

Andrea Butler, Executive Director of University College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, also advises to get informed and find out exactly what the schools you are considering have to offer. “Compare tuition rates and ask about fees that add to the cost of attending college. For example, NWU is tuition based and you pay
as you go. We do not have multiple fees that increase a student’s overall cost. At NWU, we have an expert staff who are experienced in working with adult learners and helping them navigate their transition back to college.”

She also offers the following tips for back to school planning:

• Search for a program that works for you and your lifestyle. NWU has a hybrid, accelerated format for adult and graduate degree programs. We have the flexibility of online coursework but still foster the connection between students and faculty by having courses meet one night a week in 5 or 8 week sessions.

• It is essential to set realistic expectations in order to achieve a work-life-school balance. Set priorities and give yourself permission to let go of some of the lesser priorities, for example always having a clean house.

• Get organized to manage your time. Figure out your schedule in advance, and decide when you will read, study, do assignments, etc.

• Prepare family and friends. Explain that they might need to help with chores, meals, and taking children to their activities.

• Update your technical knowledge. At NWU, our staff can help.

Butler adds, “Throughout the process, it is just as important to celebrate success; take time to acknowledge each class you pass. Moreover, take care of yourself. Sleep, eat properly, and give yourself time to relax. This will decrease your level of stress and could also help to decrease test anxiety.”

“The benefits of furthering or beginning your education will far outweigh the challenges that come with balancing a job, family and life with school,” adds Dr. D’Vee Buss, Assistant Dean in the Office of Undergraduate Programs at the College of Business Administration, University of Nebraska – Lincoln. “However, once you’ve made the commitment and school starts, make sure to practice self-care and keep all aspects of your life in balance. While you are focusing on your education, it’s also essential to take care of yourself, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, along with all of your other obligations. It will also be crucial that you know how to manage your time. Whether you are a new college student or an adult learner, we all have outside activities that can draw our focus from the classroom. Learn how to block out time to study, time to relax, and time for your outside job. Moreover, take time to cultivate your relationships and utilize your resources; your family, friends, peers, university staff and faculty want to see you succeed.

Along the same lines, take advantage of every opportunity you are given and try to take away something from every interaction.  It may not be important today or tomorrow, but somewhere down the line, the role you played in an event, program, or service will benefit you in the future. Meet as many people as you can; get to know them.  You never know when your paths will cross and when you (or that person) will be a resource.

It’s incredibly helpful to approach every class with an open mind and assess what you expect and want to accomplish through completion of the course. Set your goals high—you will achieve more.  Map out how you will spend the 168 hours there are in a week and treat school as you would work; dedicate the required time to be successful by mapping out sufficient time for studying (2 to 3 hours per week for every credit hour, and that includes time during the weekends). Your professors will outline everything you need to know in your syllabus, so make sure to read it! If you come in knowing what’s expected of you, you’ll appear more put together. It’s a great way to earn points with your professor right off the bat.”

For those who are still debating on whether to make the commitment to furthering their education, she advises, “When considering schools and programs, consider first the education you will receive. Are the professors known in their field? Will you get the amount of feedback and engagement from your professor that you require to be successful? Does the school offer the degree or specific classes you need? Your education should be your top priority. That being said, don’t overlook the college experience. Do you feel at home on campus? Are there organizations and clubs that you want to be a part of? Does that campus thrive on tradition and does it make you excited to be a part of something great?  UNL offers all of this. Our professors are well renowned and engaged with their students. Our degree programs are designed to accommodate students’ particular interests. And you can’t beat our school spirit!”

New Styles and Gear for the New School Year

When many of us think of going back to school as a kid, we were generally the most excited about new clothes, new school supplies, that cool new backpack, and hanging out with all of our friends again. Well, thankfully most of this really doesn’t change much as we age either! A mainstay on the back to school to-do list is freshening up the wardrobe, with a mix of comfortable daywear staples as well as professional outfits when you need to look the part and dress to impress.

The Nines is a boutique in Fallbrook that offers unique clothing and flattering styles for college students of all ages, as well as fashion-forward ladies and gentlemen in high school. Many items are both stylish and comfortable, which is important for the long days in the classroom and then on to duties at work and home. But just because the day demands clothing that is cozy and relaxed doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice fashion! This fall, The Nines will carry many items that are trending along with the necessary wardrobe staples you’ll need to have on-hand. Kathy Hagge, owner of The Nines, offers the following advice for women who are shopping for their back to school wardrobe:

“There are many ways to make the fall trends this year work for you. The Nines offers plenty of basic pieces that are perfect for mixing and matching, which is essential for ladies who want to create a lot of different looks on a budget. My favorite items are the dresses and longer shirts that you can pair with different vests, scarves, accessories, leggings, and shoes (boots, flats, or heels) to create a variety of completely different looks that transition from casual to professional and day to evening. We also have those fabulous signature pieces that you can create different looks around.

To me, regardless of who you are, you have to be comfortable in your clothes. It doesn’t matter if someone else says they like it or if it is on trend; if it doesn’t fit you right or you’re not comfortable in it, you’re not going to like it. If you feel good in it, you’re going to wear it. Don’t get suckered into something that’s not your style, but do try to take a few chances. The shopping experience is the same way, so make sure you visit places that make you feel comfortable and where you can make your own decision without someone being pushy.

We really take pride in being a place that offers key pieces that give you more bang for your buck because you will never look like you’re wearing the same thing. Also, as we carry a limited number of the same item, you won’t be wearing the same thing as anyone else either! However, combining items to create a full outfit can be tricky so our staff is well prepared to make recommendations based on what we have in the store, especially on Thursdays evenings when we have our wine nights and you can pass ideas around with a group of ladies.

Furthermore, our ladies on staff are generally always wearing outfits found in the store and we also put our new arrivals on Facebook in coordinated outfits, which you can always check out if you’re looking for inspiration. This way, you will not only get some new ideas but you also have several different ways to find out what something will look like before you make the investment and venture out of your comfort zone. The Nines is a fun, casual place to shop so there won’t be any salespeople bothering you, but all customers are welcome to ask for help or advice.”

“One new trend this season we are seeing everywhere is fringe,” adds Cherie Travis, owner of Rachel’s Boutique located at 7121 Pioneers Blvd. “Whether it is on a top, skirt, vest, jacket even as a tassel on a handbag, we have a selection of these items to choose from. A couple of good staples for this fall are sleeveless denim shirt dresses, denim jackets and leggings. I think everyone needs a good pair of black leggings and fun long flowing tops and sweaters. When it comes to building a wardrobe, I always say spend a little more for items you want to last longer and look for quality. Trendy items are fun but are not going to be around as long, so maybe spend less on them. Above all, look for comfort and items that you feel good wearing. If you feel good your day is bound to be a good one.”

Blu Velvet, a boutique located at 2600 N. 48th Street, is another popular local spot for back to school shopping. Here you’ll find a mix of everything fashion-forward with a variety of stylish tops, jeans, leggings, skirts and dresses in many different styles and lengths, and many more unique finds. Put this together with must-have accessories to tie your outfit together including purses, jewelry, hats, hair items, watches and plenty of shoes to choose from and you’ll have your school year wardrobe assembled in no time!

As you can see, preparing to head back to school isn’t just a matter of simply signing up for classes and grabbing a few supplies – there’s a lot that goes into being ready for the big first day in the classroom for any student. So this year, no matter what type of education you’re pursuing, make sure you’ve covered all of the bases so that you’re positioned to dive right in and give it your all. We wish everyone returning to the classroom luck with your future endeavors, and remember, you can never be too prepared!