TL;DR: Reflection empowers deeper thinking that can guide discussions and continuous improvement. Questions to guide reflection for teachers, students, and both teachers/students are shared. Educators should be commended for empowering hope, optimism, courage, curiosity, and resilience during this unique school year. This continues to be one of the most complicated and challenging times for education, but also an exciting opportunity … Read More
Winning Streaks
TL;DR: Build winning streaks in each learner by using formative assessments, providing time for metacognition daily, and making adjustments to instruction. These “winning streaks” will provide students with the ability to succeed not only this school year, but in life. During the pandemic, most students and educators focused on what was lost. It is human nature to face a crisis … Read More
The Time is NOW to Advance Teacher-Leadership
TL;DR: Advance teacher-leadership by transforming yourself, mentoring, identifying needs, clearing obstacles and distractions, and focusing on self-care. NOW is the time for mentors and school leaders to challenge self-doubt, soothe despair, and invest in our teacher-leaders. The COVID-19 crisis has proven that extraordinary change can happen in a short period of time. Nearly every aspect of educational practice—planning, teaching and … Read More
Rethinking Leadership in a Post-Pandemic Landscape
TL;DR: Rethinking leadership in a post-pandemic landscape means schools should carefully consider the qualifications of future leaders. It is important to be flexible and adaptable when considering schedules for the upcoming year. Establish an ongoing dialogue to empower staff. Develop plans for mental health support to be proactive in the upcoming year. The United States has finally reached a point … Read More
Educator Support Networks
TL;DR: Making connections with and learning from other educators helps lead to growth. Educator support systems are a fundamental part of growth. Make sure to ask for help or seek it out when you need it. As a full-time teacher, a mother of two boys and one more on the way, and a doctoral student preparing for the final defense … Read More