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Barbruka
01-25-2001, 02:12 PM
Help!!!
Today on Dr. Laura's radio show, she said no one should take their kids out of school for a family vacation to WDW. Now, I don't want to bash Dr. Laura here. I have a lot of respect for her, even if she is a little rough on people at times. My problem is this--we're taking our kids out of school for a week this September to go to WDW. My sister is on the school board in her town, and has told me not to do this either. (She's never been there.) She says her school superintendant says they have a real problem with kids missing school because of WDW trips.
What I want to know is if you guys think this is wrong or right. Ya, I know it's educational. My boys will be in 3rd and 6th grade when we go. I know I could never do this when they are older. And the first month (so I'm told) is mostly review from the previous year. They are good students and get good grades. I'm going to tell the teachers from day one that we are going, and get homework if they'll let me. Will they fall behind? I would really love to hear from any teachers out there who are also WDW fans. And I know there are alot! How DO teachers feel about kids leaving school to go to WDW?!?!? Thanks anyone for your imput!

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Barbruka 74,77,82,87,95, offsite
99 DXL
Next trip Sept. 2001

"I am there everyday in my heart and in my memories."

[This message has been edited by Barbruka (edited January 25, 2001).]

[This message has been edited by Barbruka (edited January 27, 2001).]

JPL
01-25-2001, 02:34 PM
I don't have kids but I say go for it. What these people don't understand it that is hard for 2 working parents to schedule vacation time together. My mother & my aunt are both teachers & have told me this is a common thing to do now.

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Tiggerdog
01-25-2001, 02:56 PM
About 75% of the kids who attend the school that I teach at are on free and reduced lunch. That means their families are at or below the poverty level.

So what does that have to do with not taking your kids out of school for a trip to WDW?

During the school year is value season, not only at WDW, but other vacation spots as well. During the school year is the only time most of our parents can afford to take their children to WDW.

I get very cranky with other teachers who feel that their class is the most important thing in the students' lives. (Don't they know it is my class that is the most important http://www.intercot.com/boards/wink2.gif ) A child can learn just as much, if not more, on a vacation as in a classroom.

Two of my students just returned from Washington D.C. Mom was at a conference there, and her company not only paid for children to go, but provided tours around DC for the kids while the parents were at the conference.

I'll bet these 2 students learned a lot more in DC than they would have in my class!

I say take you kids to WDW. Let the teachers know in advance that you will be going.

A word of warning, however, if your state has a state mandated test, check the dates of those tests before scheduling your vacation. In Colorado if a student is absent during the testing, they receive a zero on the test. The school then receives less money from tax dollars for poor performance. In the future I see principals refusing to excuse absences during testing dates because of laws like the one here in Colorado.

P.S. Don't forget the teachers when you buy those souvenirs! http://www.intercot.com/boards/wink2.gif

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Ian
01-25-2001, 03:23 PM
Well even though quite selfishly I would love it if NO parents took their kids out of school so it was less crowded when I go during off-peak times, I'd say go for it!

I mean school goes on for years and years and years ... What's one week ? And I agree that vacations can be very educational. I'm a big supporter of learning outside the classroom as well as inside.

My parents took my out of school 3 times to go and I don't think I suffered any.

Go ... Enjoy ... Plan ahead ... Everything will work out fine !

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PolyGirl40
01-25-2001, 03:41 PM
Barbruka,

Okay..I am very passionate on this issue..I've struggled with the same feelings myself...However, We take our kids out of school..My oldest is 14 & in 9th grade..He has block schedules..(90 minute classes)...Which means for every day he misses, it totals 2 days of studies...

I inform the school and his teachers...He stays after school the week before and the week after our return...He also takes his homework with him...He does not fall behind..He knows that he must work to maintain his grades..OR ELSE!!!... http://www.intercot.com/boards/wink.gif

We've always done this...Many teachers choose to give him "on the job" assignments...Last year for instance, his spanish teacher had him bring back maps, menus, etc in Spanish.....

The assignments have varied over the years..He's written daily journals, logged various birds, trees, flowers...done reports on the HoP and EPCOT countries...etc...It is very educational, especially when it is part of their homework...

I guess what I am saying is..Take them!!! http://www.intercot.com/boards/ksmile.gif..plus I'm not a fan of Dr. Laura!!.. http://www.intercot.com/boards/eek.gif

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~*~ Carol ~*~
Next Trip: March 2001 - Polynesian

~ To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides ~

[This message has been edited by PolyGirl40 (edited January 25, 2001).]

miketubby
01-25-2001, 03:41 PM
Now, this is just my .02 here...

I'd have to say that you shouldn't listen to what people with TV and radio call-in shows have to say about what you should or shouldn't do and, instead, talk to your children's teachers to see if they think it would be too detrimental to their grades.

Maybe their teachers can give them some work to do at nights or maybe (this is even better, if you ask me) do some research at Epcot or Animal Kingdom to present to the class when they get back.

That way, they can have fun at WDW and learn as well (something that I find jsut as much fun). Plus, the other students will get to hear about their trip without distracting them from regular class time...

But, again, just my 2 cents...

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Visits:
1989: off-site
1996: Poly
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pjbs35a
01-25-2001, 03:56 PM
I believe each situaton is different. Depends on the child's ability to either take work with her/him or catch up after they return.

What is the school's policy? Some schools will not give excused absences for trips such as this. Student receives a zero in each class/test they miss.

I took my daughter out of school for a couple of days when she was in the first grade for a trip to WDW but it would be really hard for her now (eight grade) with the type of work load she has.

I would never want anyone to miss an opportunity to visit WDW but you have to weigh all the variables.

But I wouldn't make my decision on the advise of a talk show host!

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Aerobics
01-25-2001, 04:03 PM
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Two of my students just returned from Washington D.C. Mom was at a conference there, and her company not only paid for children to go, but provided tours around DC for the kids while the parents were at the conference.

I'll bet these 2 students learned a lot more in DC than they would have in my class!<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I hope they learned to stand to the right on the escalator when walking in Metro stations! http://www.intercot.com/boards/supergrin.gif (Tourists.....OY!)

Honestly, though, (and how on earth am I going to say this w/out sounding biased) just HOW much credibility should we be giving to Dr. Laura anyway? In the end, YOU know your child's needs best. If you feel as though they won't fall too far behind, then I say go for it.

However, if your child is struggling, perhaps this is isn't the best idea. Only you can make that decision...however, it's certainly a good idea to do some "research" in the manner that you are doing...

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SteveL
01-25-2001, 04:05 PM
As an aside, in what area is "Dr. Laura's" doctorate? She certainly seems to have what she considers to be an informed opinion on all subjects. Perhaps she is like a Marketing professor I had, Dr. _____, whose doctorate was in MUSIC!

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miketubby
01-25-2001, 04:09 PM
This isn't really the subject of the topic, but I believe her PhD is in Physical Education... I could be wrong though (there's always a first time http://www.intercot.com/boards/wink.gif )

So far, the feeling I'm getting is that the teachers should maybe give them some extra work or projects to do while in WDW...



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Visits:
1989: off-site
1996: Poly
6/11/2000-6/20/2000: GF

bradleysnana
01-25-2001, 04:13 PM
My sister is a teacher and she took her son out of school to go to Disney. http://www.intercot.com/boards/bounce.gif
She did make an educational trip out of.
I say if your children are good students and there are not any required test at the time-Go for it!! Make sure you go to Epcot and get some geography lessons.

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Nana to Brad and Alex
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Aerobics
01-25-2001, 04:14 PM
Also, depending on the age of the children, they could certainly do some educational-ish type work, ESPECIALLY at a park like Epcot.

Perhaps you could offer to have your children write up a little report about each of the countries at World Showcase (and what better for them to learn about other cultures than through the KidCOT Passport?).

Just an idea...

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Somebody call I-X-I-I!!!

WL/ASMu--September 2000

Celebrate The Future Hand In Hand!!!

Ed
01-25-2001, 04:18 PM
"Dr. Laura's" PhD is in Physiology.

Many years ago, when our kids were still in school, we never had any opposition from the school's administrators when we took them out for WDW trips. The teachers were all very understanding and gave the kids some definite assignments to complete during their absence, and usually required some type of written or oral "trip report" when they returned.

Admittedly, that was quite a few years ago, and things have changed, but I still firmly believe that travel and time with one's family, no matter what form it takes, is educational in its own way.

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Barbruka
01-25-2001, 04:42 PM
Wow, I can't believe the response so fast from all of you. Thankyou all so far for your many opinions. I think I'm going to print this out when it starts to die down, and keep it to show to their teachers at the end of August. Maybe that will help smooth things over with them, and they'll know that this can be a good thing!

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Barbruka 74,77,82,87,95, offsite
99 DXL
Next trip Sept. 2001

"I am there everyday in my heart and in my memories."

Imalismom
01-25-2001, 06:16 PM
While I am in the corner of: no way would I ever take my children out of school for a family vacation (and I have three in(or out) of college right now, they never were taken out for a vacation), it does behoove me to say that at the local high schools, students are going on a week long school sponsored CLOSE UP trip to Washington this week and last week (depending on the high school you attend). The only criteria was 1) Last report card had all passing grades (C or higher) and 2) you paid the full $$ for the trip.

Now, what is the difference? Education at EPCOT or Education in Washington, DC ... it's still education, and they are still missing 5 days of school...

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J9
01-25-2001, 07:44 PM
Look, i'm not a teacher and maybe the fact that I'm a student biases me, but when I was in 2nd grade my family went to WDW in November. It never hurt my grades. I had straight As all through grade school high school. It really isn't the big deal that everyone makes it out to be. If they want to catch up, they will.

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Jan
________________________________________________
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beth
01-25-2001, 08:00 PM
Dr. Beth says (and yes, I do have a doctorate, so I have every right to call myself that, as does Dr. Laura -- we both have PhDs), it's your child and YOU know what's best.

Of course, when was the last time you saw Dr. Laura on line at WDW during peak summer season? http://www.intercot.com/boards/wink.gif

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beth
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TiggerRPh
01-26-2001, 01:01 AM
Ok, now for my 2/10 of a dollar:

I respect Dr. Laura and usually agree with what she says about personal responsibility and personal behavior...but on this she's all wet!!

Couple of points -

As a parent, you have to gauge how your kid is doing in school and if necessary discuss with teachers to decide how much of a problem the missed school time will be.

If you spend some time in your kids school, you'll be amazed how much non productive time there is during a school day. We all think that these kids are working all the time during the school day. Check it out when your kids miss a couple of days of school and see how long it takes them to make up the school work.

I'm not sure what the deal is, but I've never met an administrator of a school say it's "a good idea" to take kids out of school for a WDW trip.

There is so much going on in WDW and much of it blatenly educational (Epcot, AK, etc.).

A thing that had always confused me is this: In northern Wisconsin, deer hunting is a major social event. When deer hunting season starts, a lot (and I mean a lot) of boys miss a weeks worth of school to go hunting with dad. School administrators never say a thing about this, but mention going to WDW for 1-2 weeks....and my God, you thought the world was ending....go figure!!

Okay, now for personal experience -

We have gone to WDW with our kids for 10 years now and have taken the kids out of school everytime. We get as much make up work as possible before we leave and get the rest when we come back. My kids have never spent more than a couple of days making up 10 days of missed school

This year we were the most nervous with our oldest starting high school. Amazingly not one of the teachers had a problem with the trip and he made up the missed work quite easily.

The bottom line -

You as a parent need to know your kids and make a decision that you are comfortable with. You are the ultimate educator of your children...and you have the right make any decision that you feel is appropriate for your kids.

Okay, I'll get off my soapbox now!!!

Thanks for listening.

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...the most wonderful things about Tiggers, is I'm the only one.

Ray(aka TiggerRPh)
Intercot Staff : Disney & Orlando Dining; The Water Cooler

delarosa
01-26-2001, 01:48 AM
When I was in school, my parents took me and my brother out several times for family vacations. My teachers never had a problem with it. We went to Disney World, we went to grandma's, we saw Discovery lift off for the first time after Challenger. We were both good students, and never had any trouble catching up. (Admittedly I was the better student, but my brother never had problems either. He was a mid-B student.)

My parents always felt that the time we spent together as a family more than justified missing school for a few days. My father is a pilot and my mother works for the department of defense. That made it hard to even find time to take a vacation together at all! We went during schoo breaks when we could but that wasn't always possible.

If this is the best time for your family to go, then go. Just be responsible and talk to your kids' teachers. Like everyone else has said, only you know your kids well enough to decide.

And I never liked Dr. Laura anyway.

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Amanda aka:delarosa
Intercot Vacation Planning Moderator &
WDW College Program Alumna (Spring 2000)
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Barbruka
01-26-2001, 06:56 AM
Dr. Laura is not the person I get my advice from on any regular basis. I just listen to her when I work two days a week. But, the reason she said not to take your kids out for a family vacation is because you are sending a message to them that education in schools is not important. NOBODY is a bigger advocate for children than Dr. Laura. And anyone who listens to her regularly knows that. It's just when you hear from several people and then her about this, you start to wonder...

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Barbruka 74,77,82,87,95, offsite
99 DXL
Next trip Sept. 2001

"I am there everyday in my heart and in my memories."

miketubby
01-26-2001, 08:02 AM
On the subject of school-sponsored trips, at my high school, kids that took Accounting and paid for the trip got to go to WDW for several days. They got tours of the accounting and billing departments and got tours of the utilidors.

It's all in who you know (I guess)...

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Visits:
1989: off-site
1996: Poly
6/11/2000-6/20/2000: GF

danpaine
01-26-2001, 10:08 AM
Dr. Laura should lighten up.

Tell me: What is more important? Taking a week and going to WDW as a FAMILY, building memories together that will last a lifetime, OR your child(ren) spending yet another week in class?

While school is of course important, FAMILY is more important. I know. My dad left home when I was 13, and was absent 90 percent of the time previous to that. I went to school, sure. But I was so lacking in the FAMILY sense, school was nothing but a secondary concern.

You learn the most at home, good or bad.

My point is, it's not like you're going to take your child out of school for a week a month. It's once a year, maybe. Certainly not the end of the world, and certainly not anything any bright kid can't catch up with upon their return.

Go for it. Build your memories. Take your snapshots. Because when you, and they, look back on them years from now, it will provide a warmth and depth that school just doesn't supply. Trust me.

Whoo! Didn't mean to go off like that! Guess I need to take a walk, or run, or something! http://www.intercot.com/boards/bounce.gif

Enjoy!

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Working in Trenton, daydreaming about a certain Florida resort.

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mickeydvc
01-26-2001, 01:04 PM
As many others have said, it's your child and you will know best if taking them out of school is OK or not. We took our oldest daughter out of school twice, but determined that she had such trouble getting back into the routine of school when coming back that it was not best for her. Since then we plan our trips around the school calendar. But that's just our daughter. Many kids take it in stride, and you really can't know until you experience it.



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MegaDisney
01-26-2001, 01:21 PM
Trying my hardest not to Dr. Laura bash.....but.......

She really seems to have a "do as I say not as I do attitude about her.

"Stay at home with your kids"
"Don't get Divorced"
"Respect Others"

All the while she is guilty of doing (or not) all three, as well as some other well documented "stuff".

I would say that quality time with your children at WDW is nothing to feel guilty about, listening to DR(and I use the term loosely)Laura is.

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Bryant AKA MegaDisney
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[This message has been edited by MegaDisney (edited January 26, 2001).]

Ian
01-26-2001, 02:02 PM
After reading some of the other posts I wanted to echo the sentiments ..

With the way the unity of the American family has declined in the past few decades I not only think it's okay to do this, I think it's a good thing!

What's worse ... Taking your kids out of school and going on a fun, wholesome family trip to WDW or ignoring your children like some parents do?

It's like that Master Card commercial ... Quality time with your family? Priceless.

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Ian: aka WDWacky
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MegaDisney
01-26-2001, 02:13 PM
I only meant someone should feel guilty about letting someone outside their "family" tell them how to raise their kids.

As for not getting divorced, I have heard her say their are only 3 reasons to divorce:
Abuse
Addiction
Adultery
(She calls them the 3 A's)
I can think of a 1000 other reasons that someone may feel it necessary to leave an unhealthy situation. Which of her three A's applied to her situation?

As far as respecting others, she has no respect for me as I am a "biological error"

I have heard her bring women to tears calling them horrible things just because they think outside her moral parameters.

We obviously disagree about her motives, I honestly think she does't give a lick about most people, unless of course they count towards ratings of her "shows"




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Bryant AKA MegaDisney
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tinkerbell
01-26-2001, 08:18 PM
I say take them! My parents took the 3 of us out of school every may for vacation mostly to wdw. It was great family time and none of us ever fell behind or even had a teacher that seemed to mind us going. In fact most of our teachers didn't even give us work they just said have a great time and we will catch when you get back. I think they were the people that knew that it is hard to get true family time when parents are working kids are busy with school and sports. They knew that you should take that vacation when ever you can get it because what you get from spending time just with your family is much more valuable then what you may miss at a week of school.

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Just a little bit of Pixie dust is all you need!

mtk23
01-27-2001, 12:50 PM
I probably don't have anything new to say here, but I just wanted to echo the sentiments of almost everyone else. I took my kids out of school last year for a trip to WDW (they were in 1st grade) and I'll be taking them out this March for a surprise trip. My parents never took my brothers and me out of school for a vacation, we always went in the summer and I hated it - the heat, the crowds etc (even though I loved WDW and anywhere else we went). Now I am in medical school, and I have to fit any vacations around my really tight schedule, which means going either during spring break or over Christmas-New Years. Last year, the girls teachers didn't have any problem, and they did make-up work on the airplane. We went the 1st week of April, and the temperature was wonderful, crowds were bearable (only the most popular rides had long lines), and my girls and I had the most wonderful time! I wouldn't have traded that for anything. I do make education a major priority all other times during the year, but I won't be a freak about perfect attendance - what 30 year old brags about perfect attendance in grade school? As for Dr. Laura, I respect her personal opinions (everyone's entitled to theirs), but I won't let anyone make me feel guilty about my decisions in life. She would probably disapprove of my choices in life - I'm a single parent, I'm not at home every day cooking and cleaning, and I take my kids out of school for vacations (gasp!). However, I have 2 wonderful children and I think I'm doing a good job, and when it comes to such personal decisions, The final word I'll listen to is what my heart says (and right now, it's saying I can't wait until March 3rd and WDW!!!).

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JimmyC
01-27-2001, 09:37 PM
When in the 4th grade, I was out of school for 3 weeks due to severe illness. Yes, it took me time to catch up, but I eventually did. Sure, things have changed. Computers vs strings of beads, but learning is learning.


Aerobics probably said it best. If your kid is struggling at this time, it might not be a good idea.

But if they are doing fine, Dr. Laura is wrong to say kids will think an education is not important.

Sheesh. Kids are a heck of a lot smarter to think that.

They will think mom and pop care more about family bonding/relationships.

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All that Glitters is Suspect.

TiggerRPh
01-27-2001, 10:13 PM
Not to get off topic but...

Jimmy...string of beads, I thought you did the cave drawing's thing!!!

http://www.intercot.com/boards/rollsmile.gif

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...the most wonderful things about Tiggers, is I'm the only one.

Ray(aka TiggerRPh)
Intercot Staff : Disney & Orlando Dining; The Water Cooler

DonLefNY
01-28-2001, 07:50 AM
My 8yo daughter is a straight A student. My 9yo son is a A & B student. They both catch up in about a week. They miss about 7 to 8 school days a year due to WDW trips. We do plan on long weekends so as to minimize the school days they do miss. Also, we go in the winter and often the school is closed 1 or 2 days due to snow. http://www.intercot.com/boards/smile.gif

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DisneyQuester
01-28-2001, 01:39 PM
I'm a junior in high school and I'm going to WDW in 18 days. (I can't wait!) I will be missing 4 days of school. My parents know the pressures that lie ahead of me,(SAT's and college) and they figured they would give me one last break. Since I'm about a B average student the teachers and my parents trust me in making up the work after the vacation is through. And believe me I could use a break from school.

As for the younger students in elementary school, I'd say to definately go. I can't really remember the days of school from third and fourth grade, but I can remember closing my eyes in the HM and the Potc. Those memories as Wacky put it are Priceless.

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"Disneyland is a work of love. We didn't go into Disneyland just with the idea of making money." Walt Disney

Jeff
01-28-2001, 02:33 PM
I'm a teacher, my wife is a teacher. We both say - "take the kids and go have a great time". We would take our daughter and go during the school year but obviously, that is not an option for us.

We go each summer but would love to take a week and go in January or November.

GO! GO! GO! and feel no guilt. Your kids will remember the trip thier entire lives - I bet they won't miss what was taught that week at school.

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DonLefNY
01-28-2001, 07:17 PM
It's funny. After I wrote and posted the above comment I read a column in the Sunday paper about this. A teacher wrote against taking the kids out for trips to Florida to see the "Mouse" as she put it. She also complained about parents taking the kids out for dentist and doctors appointments. She reminded me of a cousin of mines wife. She teaches younger elementary school. They do not have any kids as she says she already has "23". When we visit it's obvious she doesn't have clue about kids outside of a class room. She would not even hold our kids as infants.

My daughters third grade teacher (no kids of her own) told us that "it is an unfortunate side effect of a good economy that parents can afford these vacations." I thought the CP/USA was out of business!

I grow tired of someone else trying to tell me how to raise my kids.

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Don ....... WDW, been there, done that. Going back!......8 trips and counting!!

Offsite 4/90
Beach Club 1/95
Wilderness Lodge 1/97
Contemporary 1/98 & 1/99
Polynesian 12/99
Dixie Landings 2/00
Carribean Beach 12/00

Upcoming:
Villas at Wilderness Lodge: 11/01 & 1/02



[This message has been edited by DonLefNY (edited January 28, 2001).]

lovindisney
01-29-2001, 01:13 PM
I DEFINATLY SAW GO FOR IT!! YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE, AND IF URE ON A TIGHT BUDGET ITS MUCH CHEAPER TO GO DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR. DONT LET SCHOOL OFFICIALS TRY TO TELL YOU WHAT TO DO, IT IS URE LIFE, AND THEY ARE YOUR KIDS. MISSING A WEEK OF SCHOOL WONT HURT THEM, THEY ARE STILL YOUNG TOO. LIFES SHORT, ENJOY DISNEY WORLD WHENEVER YOU CAN!

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" TO the Youngsters of Today, I Say Believe In the Future..." Walt Disney

first trip: 4 years old, 1988(polynesian)
second trip: 10 years old, 1994(contempory)
third trip: 14 years old, 1998(dolphin)
fourth trip:14 years old, 1999(dolphin)
fifth trip: 15 years old, 2000(dolphin)
sixth trip: 16 years old, 2000(whyndham)
next trip: July 2001!!!

Tigger Fan
01-29-2001, 04:46 PM
1st- Everyone is right, Dr. Laura is not a Dr.
2nd- I also agree, do what is right for your own children. I have 2, 12 and 9, and I have taken them out for 3 years now. They have no problem making up the lost time. The middle school here will not give any work in advance, so that is alittle difficult. But the elementary will.
DonLefNY- That article that you are talking about in the Gazette, I also read. That teacher sounded very angry, I think she needs a vacation. I was going to write her a letter and ask her how an owner of a construction co. that thrives in the summer is supposed to take the kids on vacation in the summer? Not everyone is fortunate enough to have summers off.
It is a tough decision, but I would rather spend valuable time with my children now, because they are going to grow and not spend vacations with us.

http://www.intercot.com/boards/ksmile.gif Giants in 2002 http://www.intercot.com/boards/ksmile.gif

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Jeff Handshaw 100+visits
01-29-2001, 09:16 PM
Down here in Florida, half the counties scheduled their '00 and '01 Christmas holidays (calling them Winter Recess, hogwash!!!), for the 2 weeks AFTER Christmas. WOW what thoughtful scheduling. Hell with the Jews, who celebrate their holidays starting about 3 day before Christmas, and hell with families who travel to be with each other BEFORE the holidays (Jewish and Christians alike).
And what use is having a week off in January AFTER all the holiday decorations have been taken down and the cold season has begun to dig in. Luckily we had Annual passes and could see the decorated MK one last time 1/1, and the Osborne Lights stayed lit until the 7th, as we struggled against the sub-freezing temps.
I tried to raise some hell but to no avail.
I felt quite good when we voted out one of the members of the school board last November. Ironically the members name was 'Church'.

I'm sorry, there is NO reason for 'Winter Recess' except to celebrate the holidays, so the 'rename' does not cover it.

Oh, and my wonderful ex-wife refused to allow me to take Tasha out of school for the week BEFORE Christmas, to celebrate Christmas at WDW like we do every year.

We did still get a lot of Christmas, with the Osborne lights sneak preview, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and the week in January. So it wasn't a total loss...just not a week at WDW during the holidays like we are used to.

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I'd rather be at Walt Disney World http://www.intercot.com/boards/smile.gif
Planned/possible trips in 2001: (7)1/1-7; 4/9-15,4/27-29,5/11-13,6/7-12,12/7-9,12/25-28
Days at WDW in 2000: (36) 3/24, 4/14-20, 4/29-30, 6/4-11, 7/14-15, 8/4-7, 9/30, 10/27-29, 11/10-12, 11/18-19, 12/8-10
Days at WDW in 1999: (46)
Total days @WDW &gt;400

[This message has been edited by Jeff Handshaw 100+visits (edited January 29, 2001).]

PrinceVincent
01-30-2001, 12:44 AM
Ok, as far as I'm concerned, Laura can take a hike to the second star to the right and keep on going. Ask most Cast Members and you'll find a fairly common opinion about her and her beliefs.

Her opinion means NOTHING and you have every right to take your children wherever you want. A healthy family life, including special vacation time spent together, can far outweigh a few days drudging through Mrs. Smith's boring classes....working on coloring exercises or word searches - ESPECIALLY a place like WDW, where, believe it or not, kids learn a lot.

Take Dr. Laura's little radio show and turn it to Radio Disney.

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Tommy
°o°

WDW Cast Member
Epcot Entertainment

kiahrah
01-31-2001, 06:16 AM
My mom once said to me, "If I cannot say anything nice... don't say anything at all..."

Hence the reason I cannot say anything about Dr. Laura...

Guess what? She doesn't rule the world... and she doesn't rule your family. Do what YOU want!

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Kiahrah
WDW Addict
1st Year Wedding Anniv. - May 2001 All Star Resort
Honeymoon Boardwalk Villas May '00
Disneyland '95
Off-site '92, '87
Contemporary '81 & '78

Jennib
02-05-2001, 04:44 PM
You know sometimes you can't put things off. You should do things while you can.
how many times do you hear people say...if I only had done..... or if I had only said this. We have to take the time now not just when the schools are on a break!!!

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jenni b

" if you can shape it in your mind, you can find it in your life."

LittleSpirit02
02-06-2001, 10:45 AM
Honestly, would one week off of school and spent at WDW make a drastic life change? No. It wouldn't. For one, some people can't afford the prices during the summer. Two, parents and kids don't usually have the same vacation times. Three, if you ask me (a high school student), I would benefit from a week off in WDW. When I came back to school I would be free of stress and wouldn't be so sick of school. You know? I think Dr. Laura forgot what real life is like. http://www.intercot.com/boards/tongue.gif

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"I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing -- that it was all started by a mouse." - Walt Disney

morning_sun
02-09-2001, 04:12 PM
what a great topic!
I have no kids (i'm just 20!) but i guess it all depends on their feelings towards WDW. Is it going to be a "really great" experience, or do you already know they're going to live, breath and enjoy disney magic?
are they complete disney fans as we are?

i took a week off college last year to visit Disneyland.when i came back i couldn't pick up a single book, disney magic was stuck in my head and heart and i couldn't think of anything else.
it was really hard for me to continue with my studies because at the tiniest bit of silence i would listen to the "Believe there's magic in the stars" song in my head and couldn't get it out for nothing.
i somehow made it to the end of the college year with good grades, but it was really hard.
of course, school is completely different from college, and... of course, if this is the only time tou can take your family to WDW... go for it!

I just wanted to share my experience, disneyland really affected me!
but i would do it again with no hesitation!
http://www.intercot.com/boards/ksmile.gif

Carmen http://www.intercot.com/boards/biggrin.gif

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~°O°~ Remember... just believe! ~°O°~

TheSorcererofFantasia
02-09-2001, 09:11 PM
I had an experience with this topic when we planned our 99 trip. I actually had a worse experience with an elementary school.

Principal had OK'd the trip and told me not to worry that all of children were great kids and hardly ever missed school. This trip was important for it was the first trip I was able to make since my accident in 92.

It was planned so that the kids would miss 10 days of school out of our 17 day trip. All of their make up work was done prior to our leaving.

A teacher (grade 4) informed my daughter's class the day before we left that she must think she is a Princess because she wouldn't be at school she would be at Disney World. Needless to say I went nuts. My daughter (just like her mother http://www.intercot.com/boards/smile.gif) informed her teacher that she (the teacher) should take a trip to WDW that way her heart would be filled with happy thoughts any maybe her wishes would come true with some extra pixie dust from Tinker Bell! The principal called to tell me what happened and he couldn't stop laughing. Told us to go and have a wonderful time.

Upon returning the same teacher tried to start again by asking my daughter what she had learned while she was at WDW. DD spent an entire afternoon explaining all the things she had learned throughout the trip. The children in her class commented on how my daughter had learned so much more in the 10 days that she missed then they had.

I opinion is that parents know their children the best and can make the best decisions for them.

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Cher (aka TheSorcererofFantasia)

Tiggerdog
02-10-2001, 01:31 PM
What does Dr. Laura say about teachers missing school for a trip to WDW? http://www.intercot.com/boards/wink2.gif

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DizKnee
02-14-2001, 01:27 AM
I have to disagree with LittleSpirit02 in saying "Honestly, would one week off of school and spent at WDW make a drastic life change" - I think it makes a huge difference! A huge positive difference. I take my daughter every year, and it ALWAYS has a HUGE POSITIVE effect on her - WAY MORE than staying in school for that length of time ever does. I think schools should REQUIRE trips to WDW! How do you like THEM (sic) apples?

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I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing - that it was all started by a mouse.
Walt Disney

Shelly3
02-14-2001, 08:29 PM
I think Dr Laura has this holyier than thou attitude and I couldn't care less what she has to say about me taking my kid out of school for a week in March for WDW! Kids are kids for a short time and family trip memories will last a lifetime for my 12 year old! Its alot more meaningful than what she will miss that one week of 6th grade. I agree on keeping up on homework and missed work, but She'll being having such a blast being a KID it will be worth it.
Life is to short, especially your childhood....

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LottaLubes
02-23-2001, 09:33 AM
I am a parent who takes her children out of school each November for a trip to Disney. I inform the teachers verbally and in writing at least 30 days prior (actually they are at the point now where if my childs name is on their roster at the beginning of the year, they know it's coming!). I am very involved with my kids schooling, volunteering, PTA, etc. When I plan my trips, I make it the least disruptive. I never take my kids out of school for more than 3 days (I piggy back on school days off). I make an agreement with the teachers that my children make up all work missed which we do promptly.

So far, the teachers have not had a problem with us taking these trips. They believe they are educational, fun, etc. They also encourage the children to write journals so that they can read parts to the class when they return. My children do this faithfully every day while at Disney (plenty to write about PLUS this makes a great memory for future years). They leave room for pictures and the journals come out quite nice. We also buy a Disney treat for the class upon return.

So, for us it is worth it. However, I must admit that this is probably our last year going in November. My oldest will be in Middle School next year and I'm not sure how this schedule will pan out. We may try going in Feb or Apr vacation as a test.

I hope this helps.

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TCLites
02-23-2001, 01:51 PM
I'll respond, first as a life-time teacher, principal, and now educational school improvement consultant/college educator, and then as a parent.

As a principal and teacher, I always found it hard to have kids gone. HOWEVER, my guiding principal was GOD, FAMILY, then SCHOOL. I never questioned kids being gone for truly church related reasons. I supported true family activities (when the whole family was involved - not a group of kids going to a rock concert 500 miles away). There is a wealth of experience to learn outside of school and not everyone has the pleasure of taking their vacations during the summer months. I would certainly hope that you wouldn't do this type of thing 2 or 3 times a year or even necessarily every year for a long period, because it is extra work for teachers, but my advice is GO.

Now from a parent point of view. I took (well their parents did) two of my nieces out of school the last two days to go with us on a trip to WDW a number of years ago. They hadn't been before and probably wouldn't ever get to go. One teacher objected and failed my niece in an English class because he didn't agree with it, even though the school approved her absence! When asked what he did those two days - watched a movie and collected books! My two nieces got to see and do things that reinforced their learning (how wonderful EPCOT is) saw the ocean for the first time, flew for the first time, saw Kennedy Space Center, and met a great uncle they had never met before (who died shortly thereafter). I have to beleive that this was a valuable experience.

Now for all you teachers out there...

I NEVER supported absences for work, rock concerts, shopping trips, hair do's, senior pictures, etc. etc. etc., but I do believe that family experiences are EXTREMELY important and should be supported.

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Honor the past, challenge the present, plan for the future
WDW 76, 92,93,95,95,96,97,98,99,2000,2000, planning June 2001 at Shades of Green

[This message has been edited by TCLites (edited February 23, 2001).]

PrinceVincent
02-25-2001, 04:17 AM
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by TheSorcererofFantasia:
I had an experience with this topic when we planned our 99 trip. I actually had a worse experience with an elementary school.

Principal had OK'd the trip and told me not to worry that all of children were great kids and hardly ever missed school. This trip was important for it was the first trip I was able to make since my accident in 92.

It was planned so that the kids would miss 10 days of school out of our 17 day trip. All of their make up work was done prior to our leaving.

A teacher (grade 4) informed my daughter's class the day before we left that she must think she is a Princess because she wouldn't be at school she would be at Disney World. Needless to say I went nuts. My daughter (just like her mother http://www.intercot.com/boards/smile.gif) informed her teacher that she (the teacher) should take a trip to WDW that way her heart would be filled with happy thoughts any maybe her wishes would come true with some extra pixie dust from Tinker Bell! The principal called to tell me what happened and he couldn't stop laughing. Told us to go and have a wonderful time.

Upon returning the same teacher tried to start again by asking my daughter what she had learned while she was at WDW. DD spent an entire afternoon explaining all the things she had learned throughout the trip. The children in her class commented on how my daughter had learned so much more in the 10 days that she missed then they had.

I opinion is that parents know their children the best and can make the best decisions for them.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yeah! Go little kid!

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Tommy
°o°

WDW Cast Member
Epcot Entertainment
College Recruiting

VickiP
02-25-2001, 11:18 PM
I must say that this topic really interested me since we're going to take our child out of school in September to go to WDW. I've already talked to the principal about it and he is 100% behind us. He told me that nothing will replace the value of being with family. Granted, my son will only be in 1st grade, but I've already thought of an educational idea for him to work on while we are gone. I think most principals and teachers would rather parents be involved in their childrens' lives, which is far more important to a child's well-being.

Thanks for all your helpful comments. Makes me a little relieved to know there are so many others that have done this!!!

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"With all due respect Your Rottenness, couldn't we just wait for a real storm?"

WDWFRK
02-26-2001, 03:50 PM
What do you think your kids will remember more fondly 20 years from now? What they did in school that week or their wonderful family vacation to WDW? I believe that there is more to learning and life experience than having perfect attendance records at school. My parents took me out of school on occasion when I was growing up and I've never suffered because of that.

You know your kids best, not Dr. Laura.

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Now is the time, now is
the best time...

singermom4
02-27-2001, 12:54 AM
Not a fan of Dr. Laura but have a few thoughts on this subject. First, it seems that there isn't very much of a low crowd season so avoiding the crowds would not seem a good reason to take kids out of school. Also, it is possible to stay at very reasonable hotels off-site so cost doesn't seem to a good reason either. While I am all for making family memories, school should be a priority and trips should be made during breaks if possible. Certainly there are exceptions - e.g. trips where scheduling time off is difficult. My parents did take me out of school in 6th grade and while it certainly didn't hurt my schoolwork, it made me feel uncomfortable (I also missed a very important sex education lesson that week - yeah, the lesson). I would ask your kids what their preference is - you might be surprised at their answer!
I just think that with all the vacation time available for kids, taking them off school really should be a last resort.



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Singermom4
1st trip - April '76
2nd trip - August '83 (met husband to be)
3rd trip - May '93 (5th anniversary)
4th trip - March '01

piget
02-27-2001, 11:38 AM
Our parents took my sister and I out of school for two weeks every other year (sometimes overlapping Easter vac, sometimes not). The memories of our family Disney/Florida vac. are something I will always cherish - especially so after my father passed away a few years ago.

My parents always gave the teachers notice way ahead and made sure we completed our assignments. We were never that far behind and if we were it didn't take long to catch up.

Alot of people have already alluded to this - but there are alot of different types of learning experiences - not just in the classroom. The time I spent away from the classroom - seeing the country ( we travelled by camper), spending time with family, experiencing different sights and people - it was all way more than I could have ever gained in two weeks in a classroom!

I think this just shows that no matter how much of an "expert" anyone claims to be - parents can certainly take the advice given - but, in the end, what they really need to do is to ask themselves first and foremost what is best for them and their families - and listen to what their own heart and head is telling them to do.

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"...the Enchanted Place is right where you are, and if you're Friendly With Bears, you can find it."


?68-visitor's/preview center
72-Fort Wilderness
76-Fort Wilderness
91-Caribbean Beach(honeymoon)
94-Caribbean Beach
Sept 2000-Treehouse Villas at Inst(my 2 1/2yr old daughter's 1st trip!!)

[This message has been edited by piget (edited February 27, 2001).]

[This message has been edited by piget (edited February 27, 2001).]

Barbruka
02-27-2001, 12:25 PM
You know, I e-mailed this thread to my sister yesterday that I talked about in the very first post. She said we're all biased because we're Disney fanatics and this is a Disney site. She said I should post this same question on a parent's board (there are many) where the people aren't obsessed with Disney. She's positive I'd get many, many more disapprovals there than here.

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Barbruka 74,77,82,87,95, offsite
99 DXL
Next trip Sept. 2001

"I am there everyday in my heart and in my memories."

[This message has been edited by Barbruka (edited February 27, 2001).]

bradleysnana
02-27-2001, 01:23 PM
I am a Disney lover and perhaps I am a little biased. http://www.intercot.com/boards/ksmile.gif However, I have taken my children out of school to take other trips in addition to Disney. I believe that learning is not just based in a classroom. As long as my child is not having problems in school, as long as the school allows it to be excused and the work can be made up, I think it is wonderful. This is especially true before high school. High school is a little harder to catch up because of the number of classes. For the elementary and middle school student, I believe seeing things they have only read about is very important. My children have missed some portion of school each year. They have been to California, Hawaii, Disney, and other asst places. I always told the teachers upfront and classwork has to be done while we are gone. My children are now grown and I have grandkids. I will do the same thing with my grandkids (Mom has already ok's the idea). I do not think I would be a very good home school teacher. But I do like the concept of learning outside the book. If you home school, you have the ability to take your children and see the things they have been reading about.

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Nana to Brad and Alex
M-I-C (see ya real soon) K-E-Y (why, because we like you) M o u s e

Becky (aka Bradleysnana)
Intercot Staff
[email protected]

Doire'sDad
02-28-2001, 02:17 PM
I took my daughter out of school for a trip to Disney World on 2/02 thru 2/11 with the full support of her teacher. We took a lot of homework with us and she journaled the whole trip for her class. I would take her out again next year without hesitation as long as I had the support of her teacher. My daughter is an outstanding student who worked very hard before, during and after this trip so as not to miss anything in school. Also there really is an off season and she got to meet people from all over the country and other countries as well, and had more opportunities than are possible during high season. To sum up - It was the right decision for us and will be again in the future.

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DonLefNY
02-28-2001, 03:25 PM
This school year our my kids school administration banned giving kids homework to take on vacation. The offical policy is they have to make it up AFTER they get back. They also started a new classification for absences. Now on their report cards there are two: Days absent(sick) & Illegal absent(vacation/doctor/dentist/etc).

The Principal lives across the street from us. When we try to discuss with him, he says he does not discuss work at home & call him at his office. When we call the office, he never calls back. Always "in a meeting".

My sons teacher hinted as to which books to take with him. My daughters teacher refused to give any homework prior. When they got back, they got a list of makeup work to do. My sons was reasonable. The teacher sent a note saying to take his time and not to try to do it all at once. My daughter's list was VERY long and included an assembly where the class watched the second graders put on a play! How the H**l is she to make that very important class up? My daughters teacher kept sending notes listing what hadn't been done yet and MUST be done.

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Don ....... WDW, been there, done that. Going back!......8 trips and counting!!

Offsite 4/90
Beach Club 1/95
Wilderness Lodge 1/97
Contemporary 1/98 & 1/99
Polynesian 12/99
Dixie Landings 2/00
Carribean Beach 12/00

Upcoming:
Villas at Wilderness Lodge: 11/01 & 1/02

[This message has been edited by DonLefNY (edited February 28, 2001).]

piget
02-28-2001, 04:20 PM
How can I put this nicely - these people need to remember that they work for you! - and in your child's best interest! I fail to see how these games they are playing fit either criterion! Sounds like some people can't handle a little power. I really feel for you and you kids!

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"...the Enchanted Place is right where you are, and if you're Friendly With Bears, you can find it."


?68-visitor's/preview center
72-Fort Wilderness
76-Fort Wilderness
91-Caribbean Beach(honeymoon)
94-Caribbean Beach
Sept 2000-Treehouse Villas at Inst(my 2 1/2yr old daughter's 1st trip!!)

Jordan0301
02-28-2001, 04:34 PM
Im on my way out the door to Band and to work on my College Program application...just wanted to post a note and say that "I THINK DR. LAURA IS AN IDIOT."

Sorry if you disagree...but thats the dumbest thing I have ever heard in my life. She needs to get over it.

Jordan

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Walt Disney World Summer/Fall College Program 2001 site:

http://members3.boardhost.com/WDWCPSummer2001/

Im a summer applicant...write me and wish me luck!!!!!!!!!!! NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:O)