TL;DR: To inspire the next generation of leaders, there are a number of skills that we must foster in the classroom. Have convictions, live with integrity, work on your communication skills, be self-aware, make adjustments when needed, encourage innovation, and be civic-minded. What makes a leader a good leader? It’s easy to point out an ineffective leader, along with exactly … Read More
Why (and How) I Wrote Curriculum During Summer Break
TL;DR: Summer break can be a great time to create or update lessons. Spending time on curriculum while energized can benefit both you and the students in the new school year. I love the clearly defined break for summer vacation. At the end of each year, I was always ready for well-deserved time off. At the same time, I always … Read More
Finish Strong: Do Science!
TL;DR: To finish the year strong, do science. Get your students excited about science by sharing what you do outside of the classroom. Have fun doing science that makes you happy! It is that time of year again…testing season is in full swing, students are ready for the year to end, and grades need to be finalized. With all of … Read More
Increasing your IMPACT with Strategic Partnerships
TL;DR: There are federal and state funds that schools and districts have access to. When you have a vision to make a change, don’t do it alone. Find a strategic partner like Teach Better that can help you find funding, apply for funding, and get funding. They can also help execute the plan to grow and reach your goals and … Read More
Science Better: Using Models
TL;DR: Models are a great way to determine student understanding of content. Use exemplars to inspire students to do great things. Encourage students to let their passions fuel their creativity, and give them lots of loose parts to experiment with. Provide expectations, but let students determine how they rise to those expectations. Student Designed Models I am big on student … Read More