Why Students Act Out and 4 Ways to Create a Calmer Classroom

Chad OstrowskiBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, Personalized Learning, Student Engagement

Managing behavior in the classroom can be one of the biggest challenges we face as educators. The reality is, no one walks into their classroom hoping for a day filled with disruptions and discipline issues. Yet, despite our best intentions, students still act out. Why does this happen, and more importantly, how can we address it in a way that … Read More

Hispanic Heritage Month in School

Suzanne RogersBlog, Innovation, Lesson Planning

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually in the United States from September 15 to October 15, recognizing the contributions and cultural significance of individuals and communities with ancestral roots in Latin America and Spain. For educators, this month provides a meaningful opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity while building inclusive classrooms that empower students to see themselves and others in the … Read More

Building Stronger Connections With Students Through Personalized Learning Plans

Chad OstrowskiBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Mastery Learning, Personalized Learning, Student Engagement

If there is one thing in education that gets touted as a cure all for everything its “student relationships” and connections. While I will absolutely say these are critical to educational success in any school, district, or classroom, finding the right way to achieve this connection can be challenging. Not only are we facing a population of learners that is … Read More

Back-to-School Prep Without Losing Your Summer

Suzanne RogersBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Personalized Learning, Reflect Better, Self-Care

Believe it or not, preparing for next school year without losing your summer is possible. You can head into the new school year refreshed, focused, and ready. With just a few intentional steps, you can reduce August stress and protect your time to relax, recharge, and reconnect. 1. Reflect on Last Year…Briefly Spend 30 minutes jotting down: What worked well … Read More

Is Your Homework Meaningful or Just Busy Work?

Jeff GargasBlog, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

The homework debate continues to divide educators, parents, and students. Some advocate for practice at home, believing it solidifies learning, while others argue that homework places unnecessary stress on students and families. Before I go further, I want to note that many educators question the equity of homework in general, because we simply cannot control what students go home to, … Read More