This is American Education Week, a week parents and grandparents are invited to observe children in action in the classroom. Are you going?

I've attended several years, and though I stayed only about an hour each time, I found it helpful to watch the teachers in action. I got insight into their methodology, especially in reading, and even started using some of the same language ("Say it fast!" I'd say, moving my finger across a word from left to right as the teachers did) when I helped my kids at home.

I'm not sure I will make it this year, and I am feeling guilty. I think it's important to show up regularly at school -- my husband and I were both there last week, making separate presentations. But having used some work time for that, now I'm not sure I can break free again so soon.