The Gift of Listening: Supporting Our LGBTQ+ Students

Dana GoodierBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Teach through an equity lens and reflect to make sure all students are feeling supported. Some questions to ponder include how are: How do you support your LGBTQ+ students and colleagues? How are you an ally? What kind of materials are you using in your classroom that include all gender identities and sexual orientations? Other questions for school leaders … Read More

The Power of Music

Dana GoodierBlog, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Stop by and observe the performing arts department at your school. Music is eternal and music is a great expression of one’s personal identity. The power of music is evident after the last year without live music to enjoy. Preparation for In-Person Performances A few days ago, I had the pleasure to observe a wind orchestra class. This was … Read More

Making the Shift from “Getting by” to “Getting BETTER”

Dana GoodierBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Change your mindset from finishing the year by just getting by. Instead, recognize what you learned and how you’ve gotten better. Reflect on how you have improved this year, how you have learned from others, what you’ve learned from PD opportunities offered. Don’t go back to “just surviving” in education. Work together to be better together. Recent interview with … Read More

Your Legacy Message

Dana GoodierBlog, Connect Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: What legacy message would you like to impart upon your students? Consider what message you would like to put on a billboard for your students to see. Students can create their own legacy messages too. In a year where many educators have felt like they’re not doing enough, reflect on what your students HAVE accomplished. As we wrap up … Read More

Effective Tools for End-of-Year Student Conferencing

Dana GoodierBlog, Differentiate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Make sure to purposefully include time for student conferencing in your plans. During a conference, the student is able to monitor their progress and get clarification about assignments. The teacher is able to guide the student to use individualized study strategies. They can also monitor the students’ progress and help them set attainable goals. As we go into the … Read More