In this Post: Decide to like the dog… even when it’s challenging! Scaffold training to support their needs Celebrate Positive Steps! Learn to Spiral Provide specific and meaningful feedback Lesson 1: Decide to Like the Dog The day after school let out, we drove from Seattle to Boise to pick up our new Wesslpointer puppy, Echo. I dreamed, schemed, and … Read More
Increasing Efficiency in Leadership
In this Post: A leader who practice useful efficiency techniques often finds that they are more productive. One of the easiest ways to prioritize is to make a “to-do” list. Block out time for your high priority activities first and protect that time from interruptions. If you’re having trouble getting started, you may need to do some prep work such … Read More
Teaching Is A Journey, Not A Destination
In This Post: Teaching is not a destination. It is a journey of growth. Reflect on what your life as a student was like. Change in the classroom won’t happen all at once. Learning should be student-centered. The Beginning Lately, I have been reflecting on my school experience. As a student, I experienced the rigid rules of Catholic school. The … Read More
Four Teaching Lessons I learned from Russell
In This Post: A random conversation with a stranger taught me some very important teaching (and life) lessons. Learn to be mindful in every conversation, or risk missing important lessons. Never estimate your students. Love what you do. Become a lifelong learner. Meet Russell. I met him as I strolled along the boardwalk one morning on my family vacation in … Read More
Flexible Seating Stories From a Non-Flexible Teacher
In This Post: The flexible seating movement has been going strong for a while now. There is a big misconception that the optimal learning environment requires kids to sit in desks with hard chairs. Flexible Seating Does Not Equal No Structure Not all teachers are the same Get out of your comfort zone. Even if flexible seating is too much, … Read More