TL;DR: Welcome to a new blog series to discuss which practices support students best. Let’s look at the social and emotional skills of our students. Kids do better when they can. Let’s explicitly teach them the skills they need to grow. Be consistent with expectations. Ask for clarification before correcting a student. I’m excited to begin this new journey with … Read More
Let’s Recombobulate
TL;DR: Recombobulate is an amazing word that means to cause to think again or reorient. Let’s get in the right mindset for the school year. Each day, say the entire date aloud. It reminds you that today is not only temporary but a fresh start and a new opportunity. Reclaim quiet pockets of time at the very beginning and end … Read More
New Teacher on the Block
TL;DR: Being in a new teaching or leadership position can feel stressful. New positions offer opportunities to meet new people and have a bigger impact. When starting new, remember to listen, reflect, get involved, learn about others, and have clear boundaries. Whether you are a first-year teacher or a veteran of twenty years, many of us find ourselves as the … Read More
How I Got Started Podcasting
TL;DR: During the pandemic, I decided to make my own podcast a reality. I listened to podcasts and discussed with others what I would need to get mine started. Out of the Trenches was born. It features teachers telling their stories about getting out of the trenches. Over the past two years, the podcast has been successful and continues to … Read More
What Does It Take To Lead?
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