TL;DR: In order for students to thrive in meeting their fullest potential, teachers need to create a connection by being consistent, constant, and purposeful. In order to be consistent, teachers need to be available through regular communication. Find a consistent form that works for you and your community like a class blog, Microsoft Teams, email, or other platforms. Students need … Read More
Voices at the Table
TL;DR: Both veteran and novice teachers have things they can learn from one another. All teachers should feel confident in sharing with others, as all voices at the table bring value. “So tell me what you want, what you really, really want I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna really, really, really wanna … Read More
Strengthening Students’ Reading and Writing Stamina
TL;DR: Giving students time to read and write independently is a classroom routine that encourages students to become readers and writers. A book review script that students can use to share video book recommendations with peers is included. When students share their writing with an authentic audience, it empowers them and builds classroom community. Having students set their own reading … Read More
Data Collection: The Simple + Easy Way
TL;DR: Data collection helps us make informed decisions for our students. Collaborating with a team to use data effectively is a powerful tool to guide our decisions. The steps for data collection include: understanding the why, collecting the data, checking in with the team, then analyzing and sharing the results. Data, as I’ve come to learn, is one of those … Read More
Everything I Know About Leadership, I Learned in First Grade
TL;DR: It is important to lead with a vision and a clear direction. Modeling effective leadership can inspire new leaders. I do not have numerous significant memories of my first grade year at Delight Elementary School. Except for the occasional favorite lunch of square pizza with a side of kernel corn and my introduction to the bizarre cuisine termed Shepherd’s … Read More