Author: etechnocraft
Who Is Liable For Accidents Due To Low Visibility
It might be dangerous to drive with poor vision. There are around 600 fatalities in car accidents due to poor visibility, backed up by The U.S. Department of Transportation If you are involved in an accident due to poor visibility, contact a car accident attorney in Vegas to discuss your claim. This blog will discuss the causes of visibility issues and how liability is determined for these crashes.
Determining liability for accidents due to low visibility
All types of man-made and natural conditions can affect visibility. The most common natural types of low visibility include the following:
- Heavy rain
- Snow
- Fog
- Hail
- Glare
- Low light
- Snowstorms
- Snow
Visibility can also be affected by man-made conditions like the following:
- Failure to maintain a work zone contained, such as dust from a construction site or building machinery on the road.
- Failure to trim landscaping includes trees, hedges, shrubs, and other overgrown plants obstructing a driver’s view of crossings or traffic signs.
- Failure to remove obstructive constructions off the road: When new roads or buildings are constructed, they should not make it harder for passing vehicles to see where they are heading.
It all comes down to whether the driver was negligent in limited visibility regarding liability. Usually, there are two primary issues to think about.
Is the Duty of Care Still Important?
Yes, even when sight is limited, drivers are still responsible for exerting caution towards other motorists. Because he or she might not be able to see as well, a motorist has an even greater need to take additional safety measures.
Was a third party to blame?
Liability can be assigned to a third party if their actions cause low or obstructed visibility. For example, a construction business could be liable for damages if they neglect to protect a work zone and a dustup results in an accident.
The driver or company of the commercial vehicle may also be held responsible for any damages if the truck obstructs the motorist’s vision at an intersection. However, these situations can be hard to set up, so consulting with a lawyer might be more beneficial.
How to Make a Low-Visibility Crash Claim
You can be eligible for damages compensation if poor visibility led you to be injured in an accident. However, you must show that another person’s carelessness caused such damage.
You can file a third-party claim with the driver’s liability insurance company if the driver’s negligence caused your injuries. To show the other driver’s carelessness, you must collect evidence such as speeding or approaching too closely.
Help From a Car Accident Lawyer
Making a low-visibility crash claim involves demonstrating that another person’s negligence caused the injuries. If the driver is at fault, a third-party claim can be filed with their liability insurance company. Collecting evidence, such as proof of speeding or following too closely, is essential to establish the other driver’s negligence. Consulting with a car accident attorney can be beneficial, especially in complex situations where liability is challenging to determine.
5 Simple Accessories For A Fashion-Friendly Journey: Women’s Edition
Women and fashion are two things which have a 100% match with each other. Any woman who wants to feel confident and beautiful uses fashion as a tool to inspire her more. Even though this is a superficial approach fashion does have an impact on your overall lifestyle. When we narrow the word fashion down, it comes to clothes, footwear and accessories. This article is focused on one of the aspects, which is accessories. It is a minimal effort that can create an outstanding look. Below listed are 5 items which will surely help the fashionistas out there.
Simple Or Dazzling Belts
The first item on the list is a belt. This is a basic requirement, but it is a fashion saviour every possible time. Whether you have a simple dress that needs a cinch or highlight, a belt becomes the best accessory for it. When your pants or trousers are loose, you use the belt to make it tighter on the waist and yet loose fit at the bottom. All the hacks elevate your fashion and show the importance of a belt. Owning a simple black or brown one is essential. Apart from that, there are so many new styles which come with quirky buckles and shining materials. Get those to add sparkle or curve to your outfit.
Analog & Smart Watches
The next accessory is watched. Without even saying, one can understand the styling profile that a watch offers. By wearing one, you will surely look amazing. It is not easy to find the one that matches your style. So, it is suggested to have one analogue and one smartwatch in your closet. This will help you to create two looks with just two watches. When you want to look edgy and cool, then wear the best smart watches. At the same time, if you want that effeminate touch and sleek look, then get an analogue watch. The colours that are recommended for these can be silver, golden and rose pink. Also, if the analog watch has a metallic band, then no one can stop you from achieving that luxurious look.
Beauty Of Scarves
Scarves stand tall as the third item on the list of “important accessories to own”. It is a pretty accessory which you can wear to look feminine. From the 1920s and even before, women used to wear scarves to protect their hair from wind, dirt and pollution. Soon it was recognised as an accessory which, with minimal effort, makes you look classy. There are so many ways to style it. For example, wear it around your neck, tie it in your ponytail, wear it like a headband or cover your hair and put on a pair of sunglasses. All these tricks will make you look beautiful. Mostly try to pair these up with floral dresses and blouses to look most appealing.
Statement Clips & Pins
When it comes to fashion, then hair accessories are a must. You can never attain the perfect look without them. Whether your hair is short or long, a hair accessory is a must. Of course, you can go for a no-accessory look, but life is short, so why not go all out with your fashion? You can begin with simple claw clips for everyday looks. Make sure to keep some hair strands out when you put your hair up with the claw clip, as it will make your face look smaller. Besides that, bobby pins, beads and different types of clips can create the statement for you. There is another thing which is called a hair bow which you can put when your hair is open and get your beauty aesthetics rights. In all the ways, your hair will be the star of the event.
Versatile Bags Collection
The last item on the list is something every lady owns but probably doesn’t know how to style. It is none other than a bag. Get sling, tote, baguette and shoulder bags which are in common colours to adjust all your looks. Wear it like a cross-body or over your shoulder to get the chic look. There are so many colour and style options so it can be unbelievable to choose just one. But a regular sling bag that you can wear in more than one way is surely recommended by experts. Get them in unique colours because fashion is much better without just black and white. A bag is like the final weapon of styling and a must-own product. It doesn’t have to be from a high-end brand; you can either go for the local ones to create a bigger collection.
Final Thoughts
In the end, we can say that fashion is your personal outlook. There can be many more things added to this list, but these will always stand out as the most vital styling accessories. Make sure to own at least one of each to reconstruct your fashion ideas and look the best. Have styling!
Wellness and Ayurvedic Health Tips
Unlocking the Secrets to Holistic LivingIn an age where stress and imbalances have become all too prevalent, prioritizing our health and well-being has never been more vital. While modern medicine certainly has its place, many individuals are seeking alternative approaches such as Ayurveda as an ancient system of Indian medicine – to achieve optimal health and balance in their lives.
Ayurveda (the “knowledge of life”) is more than a healing system; it’s a way of life. Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining harmony among mind, body and spirit for optimal wellbeing. If you want to incorporate Ayurvedic principles into your everyday routines for greater overall well-being we have put together some helpful Ayurvedic tips that can get your journey begun toward healthier lifestyle choices and greater balance.
1. Establish a Morning Routine: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of starting the day right, with an early wakeup ideally before sunrise to set your day in motion and practice mindfulness, meditation or gentle stretching exercises to relax both mind and body before drinking a warm glass of water to begin digestion and replenish your system.
2. Eat Mindfully: According to Ayurveda, food is medicine. Be aware of your eating habits and make conscious choices regarding what goes into your body – opt for fresh, seasonal and organic ingredients whenever possible and chew slowly so as to facilitate digestion and prevent overeating. Processed or fried foods may disrupt this equilibrium and should be avoided altogether.
3. Adopt Herbal Remedies: Ayurveda has an expansive tradition of using natural remedies like turmeric, ginger, ashwagandha and tulsi (holy basil) to promote health and healing. Integrate herbs like these into your diet for immune support, inflammation reduction and overall well-being benefits – consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner to identify which are most suitable to meet your individual needs.
4. Practice Abhyanga (Self-Massage): Give yourself the gift of self-massage using warm oil daily with the ancient practice known as abhyanga. This ancient art helps nourish skin, relax muscles, improve circulation, and calm the nervous system. Choose natural oils like sesame, coconut or almond for best results; apply liberally onto body using circular strokes before bathing.
5. Prioritize Sleep: Quality rest is essential to overall health and vitality, so adhere to a regular schedule and create a relaxing bedtime ritual. Avoid electronic devices prior to sleeping as they can interrupt the process. Create an ideal sleeping environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet – meditation or aromatherapy techniques may also be effective at helping you unwind before falling into deep slumber.
6. Practice Yoga and Meditation: Yoga and meditation are integral parts of Ayurveda, with one aiding physical strength while providing flexibility. Meanwhile, meditation soothes the mind by relieving stress, relieving tension, and increasing mental clarity. Integrate both practices into your daily routine to experience their numerous advantages.
7. Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key to optimal health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out toxins, improve digestion and promote beautiful skin hydration. Infusing it with herbs, fruits or spices for extra flavor or health benefits is also beneficial.
8. Connect With Nature: Ayurveda recommends connecting with nature as a means of grounding ourselves and finding balance. Spending time outside, whether walking through a park, gardening or simply gazing upon its beauty can help us connect to this practice and reduce stress, boost moods and enhance overall well-being.
9. Practice Mindfulness: Integrate mindfulness into your everyday activities to increase a sense of presence and awareness. From mindful eating and breathing techniques, to just being fully present in each moment, practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress levels, enhance focus and ultimately enhance quality of life.
10. Seek Professional Advice: With Ayurveda being such a vast and complex system of medicine, it can be extremely helpful to seek professional guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner. They can assess your unique constitution (dosha), provide personalized recommendations on diet, lifestyle changes and herbal remedies in order to achieve optimal health and balance for you.
Integrating Ayurved principles into your daily routine can have a transformative effect on your well-being. By adopting an holistic approach to health, Ayurved can open the doors to living a balanced and fulfilling life. Remember these tips are just starting points – take what works for you personally to find what will lead you towards a healthier and happier you!
Enhance Your Route Planning Experience with RepMove App
Modern business conditions suggest that only organizers with ideally developed strategy and logistics win. This is done with the help of modern technical innovations, which will become the basis of your activity planning and ensure perfect control. These are the characteristics inherent in RepMove, an effective application for planning sales and building trade routes, systematizing the activities of sales representatives.
The application will allow you to create a unique and productive network of trade routes, a unique distribution of resources and trading forces of the organization. With this approach, you will be the first in trading and will have time to do everything as much as possible.
Worker mobility is the basis of the strategy
RepMove is a well-functioning technology that makes it possible to build a trade worker’s route based on your unified business strategy, distribute work areas between employees, and receive timely feedback from the bottom. The main function is route optimization, when when laying out a map of a trade route, you take into account in your strategy a large number of places for trade and choose the optimal routes of movement.
You are based on the most accurate geographic and time data possible. At the same time, you can monitor the transport system, traffic jams and take into account the actions of various workers so that they do not overlap.
Features to inspire you
Also, the RepMove application allows you to implement your precisely thought-out trading strategy. Using a calendar in technology, you can plan sales and trading activities, which is very good for implementing your individual trading strategy. It is important to be able to combine the work pages of various employees into a corporate system, where you will see how your employees help each other.
All this information is presented on the website https://repmove.app , where in a few moments you can install the application and be inspired by the speed and reliability of its work.
11 Factors to Consider in a Bulk Email Service
Introduction:
In today’s digital landscape, effective communication is essential for businesses and organizations to connect with their audience. Bulk email services have emerged as a powerful tool for reaching a large number of recipients simultaneously. However, the success of your email campaigns hinges on the choice of the right bulk email verification service. In this guide, we’ll delve into 11 critical factors that warrant consideration when evaluating bulk email services. By understanding these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that aligns with your communication goals and maximizes the impact of your email campaigns.
What is a service that sends out bulk emails?
An “email marketing service” is a platform designed to facilitate the sending of a significant volume of emails to a multitude of recipients concurrently. This service proves particularly valuable to businesses and individuals seeking to efficiently reach a wide audience with their email communications. These platforms typically encompass an array of tools encompassing campaign creation, scheduling, and monitoring, along with functionalities like managing recipient lists, implementing automation processes, and accessing comprehensive analytics. Noteworthy instances of such services include industry leaders like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, and SendinBlue, among others.
Principles for using bulk emails
Utilizing bulk emails effectively involves adhering to several key principles to ensure successful communication and engagement. Here are the essential principles to consider when using bulk emails:
- Permission-Based Sending:
Only send emails to recipients who have explicitly given consent to receive communications from you. Building an opt-in list ensures that your emails are welcomed and reduces the likelihood of being marked as spam.
- Segmentation:
Divide your email list into segments based on relevant criteria such as demographics, interests, purchase history, or engagement level. Targeted content is more likely to resonate with specific segments, increasing engagement.
- Personalization:
Customize your emails with recipient names, tailored content, and relevant recommendations. Personalized emails enhance the sense of connection and relevance, leading to higher open and click-through rates.
- Valuable Content:
Provide valuable and relevant content that addresses recipients’ needs, interests, and pain points. High-quality content encourages recipients to engage with your emails and builds trust over time.
- Clear Call to Action (CTA):
Every email should have a clear and compelling CTA that guides recipients on the desired action, whether it’s making a purchase, downloading content, or visiting a website.
- Mobile Optimization:
Ensure that your emails are mobile-responsive, as a significant portion of recipients read emails on mobile devices. A seamless mobile experience improves readability and engagement.
- A/B Testing:
Experiment with different elements of your emails, such as subject lines, images, CTAs, and send times. You can boost your campaigns with A/B testing and data-driven insights.
- Consistency:
Maintain a consistent sending schedule to establish expectations with your audience. Whether it’s weekly newsletters or monthly promotions, consistency helps keep your brand top of mind.
- Unsubscribe Option:
Include a clear and easy-to-find unsubscribe option in your emails. Respecting recipients’ preferences and making it easy to opt out contributes to a positive sender reputation.
- Monitor Analytics:
Regularly monitor email analytics to assess the performance of your campaigns. Pay attention to metrics like open rates, click-through rates, bounce rates, and conversion rates to identify areas for improvement.
- Compliance with Regulations:
Adhere to email regulations such as CAN-SPAM and GDPR to ensure legal and ethical email practices. Include your physical address, an unsubscribe link, and respect recipients’ privacy.
- Engagement and Feedback:
Encourage recipients to engage with your emails by asking for feedback, inviting them to reply, or participating in surveys. Engagement fosters a two-way communication channel.
By following these principles, you can create a foundation for successful bulk email campaigns that foster engagement, build customer relationships, and drive desired actions from your recipients.
The 5 Most Common Types of Fatal Georgia Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are some of the most dangerous types of accidents that can happen in a person’s lifetime. These accidents can be fatal or result in major injuries. So, it is essential to consult Georgia motorcycle accident lawyers if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident and suffered injuries or lost a loved one.
A motorcycle accident lawyer in Georgia will be able to help you determine if you are eligible for compensation, and they will be able to represent you in court. These lawyers also understand the local laws and can advise you on what your rights are.
Let us now see the 5 most common types of fatal motorcycle accidents reported in Georgia.
- Head-on collisions
Head-on collisions occur when motorcyclists ride into oncoming traffic. Motorcyclists can have a hard time avoiding accidents with other vehicles on the road, and head-on crashes are often fatal. The direct impact of the head-on collision causes severe injuries, and there is an increased likelihood that motorcyclists will be thrown from their motorcycles.
- Lane splitting
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two moving vehicles that are in the same lane. These crashes are usually caused by motorcyclists riding at high speeds, and they fail to notice that traffic is slowing or stopping. In fact, these types of accidents can be fatal because of the high speed involved and because of the resulting direct impact on other vehicles.
- Lane switching
Lane switching accidents occur when a motorcyclist switches to another lane while traveling at high speeds. The rider fails to notice the vehicle ahead of them, and they switch lanes without being monitored. These types of accidents can be fatal because the motorcyclists are riding at high speeds and are unable to avoid traffic quickly.
- Intoxicated riding
Intoxicated riding occurs when a motorcyclist is riding home from a bar or party. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a great risk to the rider and others on the road, and these types of accidents can be fatal. Alcohol impairs motorcyclists’ abilities, and these drivers are less able to avoid other vehicles on the road.
- Speeding
Speeding occurs when motorcyclists drive at faster than normal speeds. This is a serious problem, and puts other vehicles on the road in great danger. These accidents can be fatal because of the high speeds involved and the direct impact of these crashes.
Cloud Computing in Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges
Cloud computing, a transformative technology in data management and service delivery, is rapidly permeating various sectors, including healthcare. However, along with its numerous benefits, it brings some challenges to the fore. This article elucidates how cloud computing is reshaping healthcare and highlights both its potential advantages and the obstacles that must be overcome.
Evolution of Cloud Computing in Healthcare
In the not-so-distant past, healthcare facilities grappled with mountains of paper records. Critical patient data was often spread across different departments, making it hard to provide timely and efficient care. However, with the dawn of digitalization, this scenario is rapidly changing.
Cloud computing has emerged as a pivotal tool in this transformation, revolutionizing the way healthcare providers manage and leverage data. It offers a platform where data can be stored, shared, and accessed anytime, anywhere, fostering an environment for integrated and coordinated care.
The key to driving this digital transformation lies in gaining a thorough understanding of this technology. As such, the increasing interest in Cloud Computing Courses can be seen as a reflection of the rising demand for skilled professionals in the field.
Opportunities Presented by Cloud Computing in Healthcare
Cost Efficiency
A significant benefit of cloud computing in healthcare is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional data storage systems involve substantial costs, including infrastructure procurement, maintenance, and staffing. On the other hand, cloud-based systems reduce these expenses by utilizing shared resources and eliminating the need for heavy hardware investments.
Enhanced Data Accessibility and Collaboration
Cloud computing enables easy and immediate access to patient data from any location. It fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals, allowing them to share information and insights, which ultimately leads to better patient outcomes. Telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and virtual health consultations are all possible thanks to the cloud’s accessibility features.
Scalability and Flexibility
With cloud computing, healthcare organizations can quickly scale up or down their storage capacity based on need, providing significant flexibility. This ability to adjust resources can be particularly beneficial during unpredictable situations, like a pandemic, where there’s a sudden surge in data.
Challenges in Implementing Cloud Computing in Healthcare
Despite its numerous advantages, the adoption of cloud computing in healthcare isn’t devoid of challenges.
Data Security and Privacy
Data security is the foremost concern. Healthcare data is extremely sensitive and must be protected from breaches. Cyber threats and attacks can expose patient information, leading to privacy violations.
Moreover, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the U.S., and similar data protection regulations worldwide, necessitate stringent compliance in handling patient data. Any breach can result in severe penalties for healthcare providers.
Addressing these security concerns requires a robust understanding of cloud architecture and its vulnerabilities, thereby emphasizing the importance of advanced education like a PG in Cloud Computing.
Interoperability Issues
Interoperability, or the ability of different systems and software applications to communicate and exchange data, poses another challenge. Despite the advancements in cloud technology, many healthcare organizations still struggle with interoperability issues, hindering seamless data exchange.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
In many parts of the world, particularly in rural and underprivileged regions, the lack of robust internet connectivity can impede the implementation of cloud-based systems. Moreover, healthcare providers may also lack the infrastructure required to leverage cloud technology effectively.
The Role of Advanced Cloud Technologies in Healthcare
Big Data Analytics
Cloud computing is instrumental in handling the massive volume of data generated in the healthcare sector, from patient records to medical imaging. With the power of cloud-based big data analytics, healthcare providers can quickly analyze this data, generate insights, and make informed decisions about patient care.
Cloud-based predictive analytics can help identify patterns, predict health trends, and even detect potential health crises before they occur. For instance, during a pandemic, these tools can analyze vast amounts of data to track disease spread and predict future hotspots.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), when combined with cloud computing, have vast potential in healthcare. AI algorithms can sift through massive data sets to identify disease patterns, assist in diagnosis, recommend treatment options, and even predict patient outcomes. Furthermore, machine learning models hosted in the cloud can continuously learn and improve with each interaction, enhancing their accuracy over time.
Strategies to Overcome Challenges
Addressing the challenges associated with cloud computing in healthcare requires a multi-faceted approach.
Strengthening Security Measures
Healthcare organizations need to invest in advanced security measures like encryption, multi-factor authentication, and intrusion detection systems to safeguard data. Regular audits and risk assessments can also help identify potential vulnerabilities and rectify them before they can be exploited.
Promoting Standardization and Interoperability
Standardizing data formats and promoting interoperability standards can address many of the data exchange issues. Collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, cloud service providers, and policymakers can drive these initiatives.
Enhancing Connectivity and Infrastructure
Governments and private entities need to work together to enhance internet connectivity in remote and rural areas. Investing in necessary infrastructure, like servers and secure data centers, can also ensure the effective use of cloud technology.
Skilling and Reskilling of Healthcare Professionals
Lastly, healthcare professionals need to acquire the necessary skills to use these advanced technologies effectively. In addition to clinical knowledge, they must have a sound understanding of cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Encouraging healthcare professionals to take up programs like Cloud Computing Courses and a PG in Cloud Computing can be a significant step in this direction.
By comprehensively addressing these challenges and harnessing the power of advanced cloud technologies, the healthcare sector can truly unlock the transformative potential of cloud computing. In the future, we can look forward to a more connected, data-driven, and patient-centric healthcare system.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, cloud computing in healthcare offers a plethora of opportunities, from cost savings to improved data management and collaboration. However, it also presents challenges, especially in the realms of data security, interoperability, and infrastructure, which must be surmounted to unlock its full potential.
Tackling these challenges requires not just robust technology but also skilled professionals who understand the intricacies of cloud computing. Therefore, continued investment in education and training, including Cloud Computing Courses and a PG in Cloud Computing, will be critical to driving this digital revolution in healthcare.
In the end, the pros of cloud computing far outweigh its cons. The future of healthcare lies in the cloud, and with the right approach, it promises to make healthcare more efficient, accessible, and patient-centered than ever before.
About the Author
Nisha Nemasing Rathod works as a Technical Content Writer at Great Learning, where she focuses on writing about cutting-edge technologies like Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Cloud Computing. She holds a B.Tech Degree in Computer Science and Engineering and is knowledgeable about various programming languages. She is a lifelong learner, eager to explore new technologies and enhance her writing skills.
How Does the UK Education System Compare to the Rest of the World
A recent assessment by Bromsgrove School on the subject of the IB versus A levels got me thinking. How do other countries manage their education systems? Various surveys and statistical analyses can shed light on the UK’s education system and its ranking by comparison to other countries.
Literacy is perhaps the most important measure of an education system. Without the ability to read and write, all other education will be difficult, to say the least. The Literacy rate in the UK is estimated to be at 99%, putting the country at the same level as the United States and many European countries. However, the method of estimating literacy rates varies from country to country, so the results cannot be taken as rock solid. In fact, in 2003, 56% of the UK’s adult working population had a literacy level that would not have allowed them to get a good pass at GCSE Level. The OECD put the UK at 14th in their league tables that year. The levels of literacy were up to three times worse than in Scandinavian countries.
The UK is a member of the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) – an organization of countries that are committed to democracy and a market economy. Each year the OECD releases a report on the maths, reading, and science proficiency levels of countries, which this year covered 65 different countries. The news isn’t great for the UK. In 2006, the UK was ranked at 14th, 17th, and 24th in science, reading, and maths, whereas in 2010 it had slipped to 16th, 25th, and 28th. The UK is below the US in reading proficiency, Slovenia in maths, and Germany in science. South Korea and Finland have done the best, with South Korea taking the top spot in reading and maths and coming in 3rd in Science, while Finland topped the science rankings and came 2nd in maths and reading.
As of 2010, the UK is also no longer a world leader in the production of graduates. An OECD study that measures the percentage of people who get a university degree found that the UK has slipped from being in the top 4 ten years ago, when the numbers were nine points above the OECD average to 15th today, at 3 points below the average. Much of this seems to be an inability to improve as opposed to a drop in achievement. The UK percentage dropped only 2 points, from 37% to 35%, but the OECD average increased from 28% to 38%.
However, the UK higher education system is still seen as reputable, with the UK beaten only by the US in the 2010 Times Higher Education ranking of universities by reputation. The UK boasted 12 universities in the top 100, with the US having an impressive 45. Harvard took the top spot, but Oxford and Cambridge were both in the top ten. The UK had a further four universities in the top 50, including Edinburgh University and University College London. There is some concern amongst academics and students that the recent funding cuts and increase in tuition fees will adversely affect both the number of graduates and the rankings of UK universities internationally.
What is the Role of the Coventry School Psychologist?
Coventry Public Schools has opened and for many students, it is a fresh start in new courses with new teachers. It is also a fresh start with new sports teams and clubs and extra-curricular activities. Success may be measured with a letter grade on a report card, selection to a varsity team, or with the achievement of other quantitative measures
For a few students, the start of school just continues the challenges they face in their daily lives. It is much more difficult to measure a student’s emotional success – how well has the student navigated home and school, and perhaps work, to overcome a variety of social and economic challenges that impact academic success. A measure of success may be more qualitative than quantitative.
At Coventry High School, there are services in place to support students who are at risk emotionally and behaviorally. This summer I spoke with Lou Ruffolo, a Coventry High School Psychologist, who is a member of the Unified Learning Services Team (ULST). On the team are another Psychologist and a Social Worker. On the department website is this motto, “The secret of education is respecting the pupil,” a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson. This sums up the role of the School Psychologist.
Lou spent 13 years in the Coventry School District working with the elementary student population. Three years ago he moved to the high school. Based on these assignments, he has been in a unique situation with fellow students at the high school with whom he worked at the elementary school.
A student’s emotional well-being may be assaulted in a variety of ways in the classroom, corridors, and cafeteria. It can take the form of an insult, arguments with fellow students, bullying, aggression, and challenges to teachers and each other. It may be direct or via social media. It expresses itself both in and out of the classroom and often results in academic work not completed high absenteeism, and course credit loss. In general, the student is not prepared to learn.
Lou’s primary role is to support students with an IEP (Individual Education Plan) or 504 students. Last year he found that 64% of his time was spent with students without an IEP or any school supports in place. Let’s look at the primary role of School Psychologists first.
The Psychologists test and evaluate students to determine eligibility and continuing eligibility for special education services. They monitor student performance toward goals, they counsel IEP students, and counsel students who are in other programs, such as Life Skills, Transition, and social behavior /emotional programs. They also work directly with teachers to support the students in these programs.
In addition to this caseload, students are referred to the School Psychologists by the school administrative team, and teachers and staff members. Sometimes mental “first aid” is as simple as listening to a student and showing empathy and validating the student’s frustrations.
Lou Ruffolo has a simple philosophy: be the kind of teacher or facility member that you wish you had when you were in school. When he goes to work each day, he tries to be that person.
A second role of the Psychologist is crisis management. A student may make a comment or post something on social media. At least 75% of these comments raise a question about the student’s own safety. These students may walk into the Psychologist’s office, request a meeting, or be referred by a teacher or administrator, or parent.
A third role for Lou is his role as part of the crisis management system for students in distress. He trains others in the district on how to manage students in crisis.
What type of problems are our students having? On this list is substance abuse with prescription medications, alcohol or marijuana use; social media misuse that fuels drama and conflict in the high school; and lack of readiness to learn. Students lack study skills, organization skills and demonstrate that they really do not understand how to be a student and how to be successful. In the classroom, these issues play out in disruptions, conflict with peers and teachers, and academic struggles.
Since many of these activities are reactive, Lou and the team are part of the “Connections Project.” The Coventry High School uses a survey developed in Burrillville that screens students. Research has demonstrated that students that have connections (with outside-school adults, teachers, peers, etc.) are more resilient; they have a structured support system. This survey was implemented two years ago with the sophomore class. This year the sophomores and juniors were surveyed. In 2016-2017, sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be surveyed. So the survey allows the school to identify students who are high-risk; it also validates that students who already exhibit behavioral problems have low connections. The Psychologists can then proactively reach out to students and help them enhance their connections.
How is success measured? Lou has seen some students graduate that he worked with when they were in pre-school. It is an “amazing” thing to see the student walk across the stage at URI’s Ryan Center. Success is measured when the Unified Basketball team won its state championship, and the team members were given jackets to wear. Seeing the students in the corridor being identified as “athletes” not as “special education” students brings a note of pride to the ULSS team.
Success is measured when a student stops in the office to say, “thanks,” or a parent sends a special message of thanks.
Success is measured when a student who did not want any help has built trusting relationships with the ULSS and proactively reach out for help.
During the 2016-2017 year, it is hoped that a Unified Theatre program may be started. The team has received a $500 grant to work with the Coventry Drama Coach to implement a program for the Unified Learning Support Services students.
And the team will continue its reactive work – serving the IEP population – but also find ways to be proactive in serving those who need emotional support.
In summary, a student’s success in Coventry High School may be measured in many ways. Academic measures are often easy to identify and data easy to obtain.
Measuring emotional health and improvement are more difficult but not impossible at Coventry High School. The support team and services are in place.
Why You Should Consider Extended Stay Hotels for Your Vacation
In your research, always call the hotel directly to compare their rates with the 1-800 number rates alongside internet rates. The results of each method may be very different and it is worth the time to do a little more leg work and save some money.
Extended-stay hotels offer quite a few of the same amenities found in resort hotels these days including such basics as cable television, housekeeping, and wireless internet access. They also may offer fun things like swimming pools and spas, workout rooms, and free local phone usage. Their goal is to get you to stay there for as long as possible and make your stay very comfortable and pleasant. Check out their online pictures to see which extended-stay hotels look more and more like resort vacation hotels.
While doing your cost comparison research, ask about any loyalty programs a certain hotel chain may be offering. You can earn points for each nite you stay which can add up in the long run for free nights or extra perks which can go towards your next vacation.
Demand is at an all-time high right now for extended stay hotels but rates are still low. Mark Skinner, the moderator at the Midwest Lodging Investors Summit said “Extended-stay hotels need to raise their rates.” He noted that the fewest number of extended-stay rooms are under construction in 15 years. Now is the perfect time to look at extended-stay hotels as a vacation destinations rather than just for business usage.
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