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Yesterday, I had the opportunity to present at the inaugural conference on Special Education Needs. The theme of the conference was "Inclusive Education: Bridging Gaps, Building Futures." My presentation was titled "Understanding Learning Differences: Cognitive and Emotional Aspects of Special Education Needs." It was a fantastic day for professionals working with diverse populations to come together and gain valuable strategies to help individuals in these communities thrive in inclusive settings.
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 The further we move into the 2024-2025 academic year, the more distant the height of the COVID-19 pandemic feels. It can sometimes seem as though we didn’t experience a period of interrupted and unfinished learning in our classrooms, especially since we’ve been back to "normal" for some time now. However, if you've spoken with parents or educators recently, you may have noticed that many of us are still grappling with challenges that trace their roots back to that unprecedented time. The effects of the pandemic are far from over.
We need to remind ourselves—often—that some of the challenges that we are seeing in children and students today aren't simply a reflection of them or their effort, but of the conditions they have lived through. In many ways, the world may seem to have moved on, but in education, the ripple effects of the pandemic are still very real. And those effects need to be addressed with care, patience, and a lot of grace. The Learning Gaps Go Beyond Academics When we think of "unfinished learning," our minds often jump to academics—math problems, reading levels, or social study facts that students may have missed during remote learning. But the gaps are much wider than that. What we're seeing now isn’t just about academic deficits but also gaps in crucial developmental areas: fine motor skills, gross motor skills, attention, focus, emotional regulation, social interactions, vocabulary development, and so much more. Some of these gaps are subtle. For instance, young children may struggle with fine motor skills like cutting or handwriting—things they missed out on practicing during the shift to digital learning. Older students may find it hard to focus for extended periods or follow the multi-step processes needed for tasks like long division or reading comprehension. These aren't issues that will magically resolve on their own. They are skills that need to be taught, practiced, and reinforced. We are still very much in the process of filling these gaps, and it’s important to understand that this process requires patience—not just from students, but from everyone around them. We Need Grace for Ourselves and Each Other As parents, teachers, and caregivers, we need to remember that our children are doing their best within the conditions they’ve been given—and so are we. When a flower isn't growing the way we expect, we don't blame the flower. Instead, we look at the conditions around it. Are we watering it enough? Is the soil rich in nutrients? Is the environment conducive to growth? The same logic applies to our children. If we see that they’re struggling in a particular area, we must look at how we’re supporting their growth. Have they had enough opportunities to practice fine motor skills? Have we created an environment that fosters focus and attention? Have we allowed space for social and emotional development that was stalled during periods of isolation? Balancing Remediation and Acceleration In education today, there's a fine balance between remediation and acceleration. We need to be mindful of not just pushing students ahead to "catch up" to where we think they should be, but also ensuring they have a strong foundation to build on. Remediation—going back and filling in gaps—is essential. But at the same time, we can't hold students back indefinitely. There’s an art to balancing these two approaches, one that requires careful observation and flexibility. The key is in recognizing that skills build upon each other. If a student is struggling with long division, it may not be about long division itself—it could be that their foundational understanding of multiplication isn’t solid. If a child is having difficulty with handwriting, it could stem from a lack of fine motor practice, not just the act of forming letters. These are just a few examples of how deeply interconnected learning really is. Be a Detective: Address the Foundational Skills My reminder to parents and teachers is simple: if you’re noticing a particular skill that seems to be a challenge—whether it's cutting with scissors, penmanship, or adding fractions with unlike denominators—take a step back and play detective. Look to see whether all of the foundational skills that support that task have been adequately addressed. Sometimes, what we perceive as "struggle" is really an indication that something foundational is missing. Maybe it's a skill that didn’t have the chance to develop fully because of the pandemic's disruptions. Maybe it’s a developmental gap that went unnoticed during remote learning. Either way, before we push our children forward, let’s take the time to make sure we’re filling in those essential pieces. The pandemic may feel like it's in the rearview mirror, but its effects on education are still very much with us. We are still catching up in ways that go far beyond the curriculum, and we owe it to our students—and ourselves—to recognize that. Let’s continue to extend grace to one another, knowing that the path to growth and learning is not always a straight line, but it’s one we can navigate together.  In this Solo Snippets edition of Shifting Perspectives, Yolande dives into an important topic during Dyslexia Awareness Month. She sheds light on what dyslexia is, the common signs, and how parents and teachers can support children who may be struggling with reading, writing, and spelling.
Yolande shares practical strategies for both parents and educators, focusing on how to foster a supportive environment for students with dyslexia. From encouraging a growth mindset to implementing multisensory learning techniques, this episode provides invaluable insights to help all students succeed. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or just curious about learning disabilities, this episode offers powerful takeaways to inspire and inform. Tune in, and let’s make a difference together! Shifting Perspectives is a conversation with Yolande and Latasha that challenges listeners to fuel themselves with diversity in the way they think, the way they work, the way they parent and the way they live their lives. 🎧 Listen to Shifting Perspectives on Apple Podcasts, Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, Overcast, Castro, Castbox, Podfriend or at www.learnandleadltd.com/podcast Follow Yolande @yolanderobinson Follow Latasha @latashastrachan  Over the last couple of months, I've gotten many questions about Shifting Perspectives and when Latasha and I will be resuming episodes. I promise...we are coming soon! Latasha and I are looking forward to jumping back into our conversations, but we are also adding a new spin to the mix.
This Saturday my first episode of Shifting Perspectives - Solo Snippets will air. These are quick, bite-sized episodes that dive into the worlds of parenting, education and personal growth, challenging the way we think, learn and evolve. Whether it's in your career, family life, or personal journey, sometimes all it takes is a small shift to spark big changes. Shifting Perspectives can be found on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, Overcast, Castro, Castbox, Podfriend or www.learnandleadltd.com/podcast.  October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, a time to highlight and educate us about the challenges that students with dyslexia face. As educators, we strive to create inclusive classrooms where every student can thrive. One common challenge that many students encounter is dyslexia, a specific learning disability that impacts reading and language processing. Understanding dyslexia is crucial for providing effective support and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
Understanding Dyslexia Dyslexia is characterized by difficulties with accurate and fluent word recognition, as well as challenges with spelling and decoding abilities. Importantly, dyslexia does not reflect a student’s intelligence; many individuals with dyslexia possess average or above-average cognitive abilities. Common Signs of Dyslexia Recognizing the signs of dyslexia early can significantly impact the effectiveness of interventions. Some common indicators include:
While some of these signs may appear in young learners as part of normal development, persistent challenges warrant further investigation. As teachers, it's important to remember that while we cannot diagnose dyslexia, we can be vigilant in recognizing these signs and providing support. Supporting Students with Dyslexia If you notice signs that may indicate dyslexia in your students, it’s essential to take proactive steps to support their learning, regardless of whether they have received a formal diagnosis. Here are several effective strategies that educators can implement:
Understanding dyslexia and its impact on learning is essential for creating an inclusive classroom environment. By recognizing the signs, implementing effective teaching strategies, and fostering collaboration with parents, we can help students with dyslexia thrive. Remember, while we may not be able to diagnose dyslexia, our role as educators is vital in supporting students who may be struggling. If you notice signs of dyslexia, take the initiative to seek out ways to provide support and advocate for your students' needs.  Dyslexia Awareness Month is observed every October. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about dyslexia, a specific learning disability that affects reading, writing, and spelling. Individuals with dyslexia often have average or above-average intelligence. With the right support and strategies, they can succeed academically and in everyday life.
Dyslexia can manifest in various ways, and signs may vary from person to person. Common signs and symptoms include:
Congratulations to the most recent group to complete Leading from the Middle!
Middle managers play a pivotal role in organizational success, serving as the linchpin between top-level executives and front-line employees. Their significance lies in their ability to translate high-level strategic goals into actionable plans and ensure their implementation at the operational level. The last 3 days were filled with learning, discussion, problem solving, role playing, strategic thinking exercises and a little play to demonstrate key points through new mediums. Leading from the Middle-
 Today, on World Mental Health Awareness Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on a topic that touches all of our lives--digital well-being. In our increasingly online world, where screens have become part of both learning and leisure, it’s important to understand how our digital habits impact our mental health. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or just trying to navigate your own screen time, finding balance is key.
What is Digital Well-Being? Digital well-being refers to our relationship with technology and how it affects our emotional, social, and mental health. It’s about being mindful of our screen time and ensuring that our use of digital devices is balanced with offline activities that enrich our lives. With our phones, tablets, and computers constantly at our fingertips, it’s easy to get lost in endless scrolling, but this can take a toll on our mental health, especially for children and adults alike. The Impact of Screen Time on Children For children, screen time can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, digital devices provide incredible learning opportunities, allowing kids to explore new topics and connect with friends. But on the other, excessive screen time can lead to issues like reduced attention spans, disrupted sleep patterns, and even anxiety or depression from too much exposure to social media. It’s important for children to engage in activities that support their overall growth, including unstructured play. Playtime without screens allows kids to be creative, develop problem-solving skills, and interact with others in a natural way. It’s during these moments that they learn how to manage emotions, build friendships, and explore the world around them. Too much time online can replace these essential experiences, leaving kids feeling more isolated. The Impact of Screen Time on Adults Adults are not immune to the effects of excessive screen time either. For many of us, screens are integral to our work and social lives, especially with remote work becoming more common. But just like children, adults can find themselves spending too much time online, whether it’s working late into the night, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching shows. Excessive screen use can contribute to feelings of burnout, stress, and even loneliness. The constant flow of information from emails, notifications, and news can keep our minds in a state of overdrive, making it difficult to wind down and find true rest. This is why digital detoxing—taking regular breaks from screens—can be so powerful for mental health. What Healthy Online Habits Look Like Building healthy digital habits is key to improving our digital well-being. Here’s what that can look like for both children and adults: Healthy Online Habits for Children
Healthy Online Habits for Adults
Finding Balance in a Digital World Digital well-being is about more than just reducing screen time; it’s about creating a balanced relationship with technology that supports our mental health. By being intentional with our screen use and making space for offline activities, we can create a healthier, more mindful approach to the digital world. On this World Mental Health Awareness Day, let’s commit to prioritizing our digital well-being—not just for ourselves, but for the children and adults around us. A balanced approach to screen time can lead to a healthier, happier life, so let’s take a moment today to unplug, play, and be present.  Navigating the High School Transition: How Are You Doing?
As September comes to a close and the first month of high school wraps up, it’s a good moment to reflect: How are you doing with the transition? This phase is not just a big step for your child—it’s a transition for you as well. Whether your teen entered high school as a pre-teen or already a teenager, the shift brings changes that impact the whole family. While your child may seem more independent, they still need your guidance in ways that may surprise you. For many parents, this shift can feel like your child no longer needs you as much. They might not ask for help with every little thing, and they’re studying subjects like physics or chemistry that feel far beyond what you remember from school. But even if the content feels unfamiliar, your role as a parent is still vital—and possibly even more so now that they’re in high school. Supporting Academically When the Content Feels Challenging You don’t need to be a content area expert to help your child thrive academically. Even if you’re not up to speed on their coursework, you can still be a key part of their academic success:
Offering Holistic Support: Social, Emotional, and Behavioral While academics are important, the social and emotional side of high school can be just as significant—and this is where your support is essential. Your child is not only tackling more challenging subjects but also navigating new friendships, peer pressures, and emotional highs and lows. Here’s how you can help:
Remember, They Still Need You—Just in Different Ways It’s natural to feel like your child doesn’t need you as much now that they’re in high school. But the reality is, they need your support in new, more subtle ways. They may not ask for help with every homework assignment or daily task, but they still rely on your guidance as they navigate this important stage of life. Your involvement is still essential, even if it looks different than when they were younger. By staying engaged in their academic, social, and emotional lives, you can help them not only transition smoothly into high school but also set them up for success throughout these formative years. So, as you and your child settle into this new school year, remember that your presence, encouragement, and support are just as valuable as ever.  As the first week of school begins, excitement and nerves are in the air. It's a fresh start, a clean slate, and the perfect time to encourage our children to set goals for the academic year. Goal setting isn’t just a skill for adults; it’s something that children can benefit from immensely, and starting early sets the stage for lifelong success. By teaching our kids to set and work towards their goals, we give them the tools they need to take charge of their own progress, both in school and in life.
What Are Goals, and Why Do They Matter? A goal is simply something we aim to achieve—a target we set for ourselves to get better at something or to accomplish something new. For children, goals can be as simple as reading a certain number of books, mastering a new skill in a favorite sport, or even making a new friend. When children set goals, they learn to focus, manage their time, and take responsibility for their actions. They develop a sense of purpose and direction, which can boost their confidence and motivation. Achieving a goal, no matter how small, provides a sense of accomplishment that encourages them to keep trying and keep growing. In essence, goal setting empowers children to become active participants in their own success. The Benefits of Setting Goals Early On Starting goal setting at a young age has numerous benefits:
Goals Aren’t Just About Academics When we think about goal setting, our minds might jump to academics, healthy habits, or behavior—areas where we naturally want to see our children excel. However, it’s just as important to encourage goal setting in areas they’re passionate about. Whether your child is interested in art, sports, music, or even video games, setting goals in these areas can help them develop their skills and keep them engaged and motivated. For example, if your child loves drawing, a goal could be to learn a new drawing technique or to create a certain number of pieces by the end of the month. If they’re into soccer, maybe they’d like to improve their dribbling skills or score a certain number of goals this season. By aligning goals with their interests, you’re not only supporting their passions but also teaching them how to turn their dreams into achievable plans. A Simple Framework: Three Key Ideas to Guide Goal Setting To help your child get started with goal setting, sit down together and explore these three key ideas:
As parents, we have the unique opportunity to guide our children as they embark on a new school year full of potential and possibilities. By helping them set meaningful goals, we can foster their growth, not just academically, but in all areas of their lives. So, take a moment to chat with your child this week, explore their dreams, and work together to set them on a path to success. Here’s to a school year filled with achievement, growth, and endless possibilities! 
Effective teaching practices are essential in the teaching of reading. Yesterday I had the opportunity to work with the teachers at the Iris Stubbs Primary School in South Caicos.
In our session, the Fundamentals of Reading Instruction, we focused on understanding The Science of Reading and refreshing our approach to:
This evening I had the opportunity to speak to the Roteract Club of Providenciales. We explored what it means to have a positive and healthy team dynamic and how they can nurture one within their organization. We had a great evening! All the best Rotaract PLS!
Yesterday I had the pleasure of working with the administration and staff at A. Louise Thomas Garland High School in Providenciales. We spent the morning exploring Team Building for Educators. t’s easy in back-to-school prep to focus on the essentials needed for a dynamic year of teaching and learning…however, we can’t forget the importance of building a positive team dynamic on our teaching staffs.
During our session explored the following topics...and played a few team building games.
 I can already hear the back-to-school rumblings from some of my children (who shall remain nameless!). How is it going in your homes? I know this time of year can be a mix of excitement, nerves, and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos as we all prepare for the school year ahead.
As we approach the first day of school, it’s so important to start easing into those routines that will set our children up for success. The more prepared they feel, the smoother the transition will be—not just for them, but for all of us as well. Establishing routines before the first day can make a world of difference, helping kids adjust to the new schedule and mindset with less stress. To help you navigate this week, here are five tips to ensure your kids get started on the best foot: 1. Gradually Adjust Sleep Schedules: Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times to align more closely with the school schedule. This gradual shift helps children adapt without the shock of an abrupt change on the first day. A consistent sleep routine ensures they’re well-rested and ready to learn. 2. Set Up a Designated Homework/Study Area: Create a quiet, organized space for your child to do homework or study. Having a dedicated spot free from distractions can help them focus better and develop good study habits from the start. 3. Review Morning and Evening Routines: Go over the morning and evening routines with your kids. Make sure they know what needs to be done each day, from packing their bags to setting out clothes for the next day. Establishing a smooth routine now can reduce morning stress and evening rush. 4. Plan Healthy Lunches and Snacks: Start planning and discussing lunch and snack options with your kids. Involving them in the process can make them more excited about their meals and ensure they have the nutrition they need to stay energized throughout the school day. 5. Talk About Expectations and Goals: Have a conversation with your children about the upcoming school year. Discuss their goals, any anxieties they might have, and what they’re looking forward to. Setting positive expectations and addressing concerns can help them start the year with confidence and a clear mindset. As we all gear up for the school year, remember that a little preparation can go a long way in making the transition smoother for everyone. Here’s to a successful and stress-free start to the school year!  It’s been a while since we last connected—July was a whirlwind of activity, and August provided a much-needed break to recharge and reflect. As we approach the final week of summer for teachers here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, I wanted to take a moment to reconnect and share some insights as we gear up for the new school year.
Starting a new school year is always a mix of excitement and apprehension. Even if everything isn’t falling perfectly into place, there are several strategies you can use to set a positive tone and ensure a successful beginning. Here are some tips to help you start off the year on the right foot, even if everything isn’t exactly as you would like it to be: 1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Before stepping into your classroom, take some time to set clear, achievable goals for yourself and your students. These goals can be related to classroom management, academic achievements, or personal development. Having a focused vision will guide your efforts and keep you motivated throughout the year. 2. Organize and Plan: Effective planning is key to a smooth start. Use this final week to organize your classroom, prepare lesson plans, and arrange necessary materials. Even if some aspects of your setup aren’t ideal, a structured plan will help you feel more prepared and in control. 3. Embrace Flexibility: While having a plan is essential, flexibility is equally important. Things might not always go as expected, and that’s okay. Being adaptable will help you navigate unexpected challenges with a positive attitude and maintain a productive learning environment. 4. Foster a Positive Classroom Environment: From day one, create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for your students. Develop classroom routines that promote respect and collaboration. Building strong relationships with your students will enhance their engagement and make your classroom a place where everyone feels valued. 5. Prioritize Self-Care: Teaching can be demanding, so don’t forget to take care of yourself. Establish a routine that includes time for relaxation and activities you enjoy. Balancing your professional and personal life will help you stay energized and focused throughout the year. 6. Involve Parents and Guardians Early: Engage with parents and guardians from the start to build a strong partnership in supporting student success. Send out introductory letters, schedule meetings, and encourage open communication. Involving families early helps create a supportive network for your students. 7. Stay Informed and Innovative: Keep yourself updated on new teaching strategies and educational tools. Incorporate innovative practices into your lessons to keep your students engaged and enhance their learning experiences. Professional development and staying curious about new methods can invigorate your teaching approach. 8. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your teaching practices and student progress. Be open to making adjustments based on what’s working and what isn’t. Continuous improvement is a hallmark of effective teaching and will help you better meet the needs of your students. 9. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate the small successes along the way. Whether it’s a breakthrough with a student or a successful lesson, recognizing these moments can boost your morale and keep you motivated. 10. Connect with Colleagues: Build and maintain a support network with fellow teachers. Sharing experiences, advice, and encouragement with colleagues can provide valuable insights and help you feel less isolated in your teaching journey. As we prepare to head back to school, let’s embrace the excitement and challenges that come with it. By starting with a clear plan, staying adaptable, and nurturing a positive environment, we can create a successful and fulfilling year for ourselves and our students. Here’s to a fantastic 2024-2025 school year!  It's hard to believe that summer is almost over! Many of you will soon be making preparations for the 2024-2025 academic year. Registration is now open. For new students registering, you can expect to hear from me towards the end of August to schedule a consultation for the first week of September.
We look forward to seeing you again soon! Register Here  Studying is a skill. Anything that is a skill can be taught, learned, practiced and improved. This week a group of teens completed their Study Skills 2024. We worked at examining and enhancing study their current study skills and refining the methods they use to absorb, process, retain and utilize information effectively. We wish them all the best in the new academic year.
Earlier this week I made a quick trip over to GT to work with a group of interns from the National Internship and Apprenticeship program. We explored 3 essential soft skills through learning, discussion and games.
We wish them all the best as they continue their studies and grow as professionals! 
"Courteous treatment will make a customer a walking advertisement.†– James Cash Penney, Founder J.C. Penney Stores
Earlier this week I had the pleasure of working with the employees from C.A.M. In addition to refreshing some important customer service skills they had a great time participating in a team billing challenge! 
“The Public Speaker†is a 5-session small group coaching program that helps participants improve their public speaking and presentation skills. Speaking in front of others is not always easy, but it is a skill that can be developed! This week two employees from the Ports Authority of the Turks and Caicos Islands completed their sessions, which includes a final component of creating and delivering a speech or a presentation.
Congratulations to the two @portstci Ports Authority Employees that jumped into this program and gave it their all!
 Yesterday, I had the wonderful opportunity to work with the team at the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Service. Brushing up on one's soft skills is extremely important. Not only does it improve the cohesiveness between team members, but it is also a valuable tool in dealing with clients and customers.
Our focus for the day was on Building Confidence and Assertiveness. While we often discuss the importance of Assertive Communication, it is rare to delve into it within the context of building the skill of confidence. Confidence and assertiveness are intertwined, and they are essential skills to build in all domains of life. The topics explored in yesterday's workshop were:
The workshop was filled with insightful discussions and practical exercises. The team at the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Service had not only enhanced their understanding of confidence and assertiveness but also gained valuable tools to apply these skills in their professional and personal lives.  The end of the school year brings a much-anticipated break for teachers, a well-deserved chance to relax and recharge. For parents, however, it's the beginning of a new and demanding season. Yes, folks, school's out, and parents are officially "it."
As an educational entrepreneur juggling work and parenting, I understand the unique challenges summer break can present. Fortunately, many community camps across the country offer enriching programs that can provide structure and learning opportunities for children. Despite this, there are still some common summer behaviors that you can take a pro-active approach to managing. The Snack Monster Children often become bottomless pits during summer. No matter how many snacks you provide, it's never enough. Tip: Establish a snack schedule and adhere to it consistently. Stock up on healthy snacks and limit access to the kitchen between designated snack times. This not only curbs constant grazing but also instills a sense of routine. The Screen Time Struggle Summer often sees an increase in screen time requests, as children look for ways to fill their free time. Tip: Balance screen time with physical and creative activities. Set daily limits on screen use and encourage outdoor play, reading, and hobbies. Use a visual schedule to help children understand when they can expect screen time and when they should engage in other activities. This approach helps them develop a balanced routine and reduces dependency on electronic devices. The Sibling Gladiators Summer can amplify sibling rivalry, leading to frequent disputes. Tip: Establish a "Peaceful Play" agreement with clear rules and consequences for conflicts. Encourage cooperative activities that require teamwork, such as building a puzzle or creating a garden. For instance, set up a "team challenge" where siblings must work together to complete tasks, earning rewards for positive cooperation. This not only helps mitigate conflicts but also fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among siblings. The Perpetual Boredom Syndrome "I’m bored!" becomes a frequent complaint during the long summer days. Tip: Create a "boredom jar" filled with engaging activities that children can do independently. Activities like building a fort or crafting can spark creativity and reduce boredom. Encouraging independent play helps develop self-reliance and problem-solving skills. The Late-Night Party Animal Summer often disrupts regular sleep schedules, leading to late-night energy bursts. Tip: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine even during the summer. Dim the lights, read a calming book, and use white noise if necessary. Consistency in bedtime routines promotes better sleep habits and ensures children are well-rested. Balancing Work and Summer Parenting As an entrepreneur, balancing work and parenting can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity to model effective time management. Here are a few additional tips:
Happy summer, parents! Embrace the challenges, enjoy the moments, and remember to take care of yourself as well. You've got this! |
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Yolande Robinson, M.Ed. Podcast
Shifting Perspectives is a conversation with Yolande and Latasha that challenges Listeners to fuel themselves with diversity in the way they think, the way they work, the way they parent and the way they live their lives.
Listen to Shifting Perspectives on Apple Podcasts, Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Podcast, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, Overcast, Castro, Castbooks, or Podfriend. Archives
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