TL;DR: Exploration taps into a student’s natural curiosity. It provides a way to use the content vocabulary authentically. Exploration encourages sharing and further discovery. It’s a great way to intentionally structure your instruction for your students. Beginning of the Year It is the beginning of the school year and students are returning to classrooms full of hope, excitement, and nervousness. … Read More
Looking Back on 20 Years in K-12 Education
TL;DR: Read a reflection on some pieces of Dana’s journey in K-12 education. There are many people to thank over the course of 20 years. This week, in early August, I recall it being exactly 20 years since I first came to Colorado and began my journey in K-12 education. World Traveller Context I lived in Quebec City, Canada for … Read More
See the Ability Behind a Disability
TL;DR: Understanding differing abilities help us define the obstacles and the bias about ableism. Lesson plan ideas on talking about abilities and special needs by putting the person first. Explore a growth mindset while learning about biased perspectives. Equity and Inclusion Reflection Questions: Why does the society we live in consider able-bodied individuals as having more value? Think of a … Read More
Think Better: Staying Present and Leaving Shouldville Behind
TL;DR: Many teachers battle with shouldville—all of the things we should do or have done. Dwelling on all the things can cause stress, anxiety, and resentment. Make sure you are really focusing on what is most beneficial including your own personal time. As an educator, August was always the month that I quickly found myself living in shouldville. I would find … Read More
Balancing Self-Care and Learning
TL;DR: It’s important to balance self-care and learning. Understand that it’s okay to take a break. Strategies to make your time for yourself include choosing one thing to start, celebrating, having a routine, finding time to relax and recharge, and disconnecting. Balancing self-care and learning: It’s okay to take a break. We’ve all heard about how nice it must be … Read More