R-T Columns
People Going Nuts | Mark’s Remarks
My sweet little third graders and their mothers gave me a surprise baby shower when our first son was born. I felt ashamed of myself, because the kids were so…
Read MoreItaly, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary | Katie Albert Travelogue
By KATIE ALBERT For the Republic-Times My name is Katie Albert. I am a Waterloo High School graduate, resident of Waterloo, and full-time student at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville majoring…
Read MoreMovements, Movements Everywhere | Marks’ Remarks
Like me, you may have had mixed emotions about the “Me Too” and “Time’s Up” movements regarding the treatment of women and sexual harassment. I won’t go into my opinions…
Read MoreHuddled Masses | Mark’s Remarks
We practiced for an intruder last week at school. The principal announced we would have a drill one day, and we spent a little time each day talking to students…
Read MoreSporting Life | Mark’s Remarks
One thing we’ve always tried to do is be enthusiastic about the interests of our children. The boys have tried soccer, karate, baseball, basketball, football, and probably something I’m forgetting.…
Read MoreWeather Freak Show | Mark’s Remarks
It wasn’t always this way. I can remember when things didn’t seem to be so crazy when it came to weather. Maybe it was because I was younger. Maybe I…
Read MoreMonroe County EMA Corner | 2/14/2018
This month’s emergency management topic is developing a plan so you are prepared in the event of a disaster. When disaster strikes, your family and loved ones need to be…
Read MoreAlbert continues study abroad journey through Italy
Buonasera from Florence! As expected, this last month been quite a whirlwind of excitement The first leg of this adventure was a two-day stopover in London, where I met other…
Read MoreDiscouraging Disrespect | Mark’s Remarks
We were at a recent sporting event in which we sat near the “pep club.” I know a lot of the kids in the pep club and I think they…
Read MoreUnder Explaining | Mark’s Remarks
A few years back, there was a somewhat new term in education. A great local educator had written a book. He also taught a class, and we were all on…
Read MoreIn Search of a Good Balance | Mark’s Remarks
I consider myself an optimist most of the time. But as an educator, I am often in a black mood about the state of affairs surrounding education. I am often…
Read MoreLemons and Beaters | Mark’s Remarks
It is my belief that every person should own at least one “beater” in his or her lifetime. I think it makes you appreciate hard work and material possessions more.…
Read More