Becoming an Instructional Leader

Steven WeberBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Instructional leaders don’t have all the answers, especially at the beginning. It is important to tap into tools and resources to be an effective instructional leader. How does an educator become an instructional leader? “An instructional leadership mindset includes an intense moral purpose focused on promoting deep student learning, professional inquiry, trusting relationships and seeking evidence in action” (Timperley, … Read More

Learnability: Consumption, Creation, and Contribution

Steven WeberBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Learnability may be at the top of the list of skills high school graduates need. Consider what every student should know and be able to do when developing curriculum and standards. Be careful not to just cover the unit plan or standards without considering the student evidence that demonstrates learning. It is important that students are provided opportunities to … Read More

Teaching About Current Events and Controversial Issues

Steven WeberBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Teachers can press pause to develop a lesson, collect factual sources, and determine how to teach the lesson in an age-appropriate manner. Determine if you are ‘preaching’ or ‘teaching.’  Provide a balanced perspective and seek resources from multiple perspectives. What is the best approach to teaching about current events and controversial issues?  Americans are divided on issues related to … Read More

How Does Your School Team Determine Priorities?

Steven WeberBlog, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Determine your school’s priorities by having clear collective commitments. Have a plan for the implementation of your goal(s). Determine how you will measure growth. Reflect on what is being omitted in order to focus on your goal(s). Celebrate when you reach your goal(s). Determining School Priorities In schools around the world, a common practice is the development of a … Read More

Circle The Wagons: Embracing Conflict

Steven WeberBlog, Connect Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Having productive debates and conflicts can help teams move beyond the status quo. This can be difficult because, unlike the corporate world, teachers have little time within the day to collaborate. Constructive collaboration is necessary to move teachers forward rather than avoiding conflict because it is easier. Show me which topic or issues cause your school staff to “Circle … Read More