Food for Thought: Shrimp Scampi and Standards-Based Grading

Alex T. ValencicBlog, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Standards-based grading is like shrimp scampi: great when done right, frustrating when done poorly. It is essential to understand what stands-based grading is if we are going to use it to make a difference. Insist on quality professional learning and ongoing support to make sure SBG is implemented with integrity. One of my wife’s favourite dishes to order whenever … Read More

Fostering Classroom Culture with Student Engagement: A Reflection

Stephan HughesBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: A student asked about using ChatGPT for book summaries, initially innocently. The situation escalated as it’s revealed some students use ChatGPT to study. The teacher reflects on a missed opportunity for positive classroom discussion about AI use and maintaining a respectful atmosphere. “Sir, is it okay if we use Chat GPT to read the summaries of the book?” The … Read More

The Powerful Impact of Curriculum Gaps

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

TL;DR: Traditional curriculum design involves a focus on key skills, conceptual understanding, and assessment strategies. Identifying curriculum gaps is crucial for student success and requires collaborative efforts. Strategies like SWOT analysis, evidence-based evaluations, and identifying common misunderstandings help bridge these gaps. Traditional curriculum design teams focus on key skills, conceptual understanding, essential questions, formative assessment, resources/materials, and instructional strategies.  Most … Read More

How Can We Fight Censorship?

Daniel LindstromBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Book challenges in the US nearly doubled in 2022, focusing largely on children’s and young people’s books. Response to censorship includes President Biden’s plan to appoint a federal coordinator to address book bans, along with efforts from educational organizations, librarians, and publishers like Penguin Random House. Various groups, such as the Great Books Foundation, are actively fighting censorship by … Read More

High Standards, No Excuses

Jerod Phillips Sr.Blog

  In this episode #14, I am joined by Ross Braun. Ross is a former elementary school principal, and he is the current VP for School Life. Learn more about Ross and his work at themrbraun.com. Follow Dr. Phillips on X at @japhillips0722, Instagram at drjaphillips0722, LinkedIN at Dr. Jerod Phillips Sr., and TikTok at @docjaphillips. Theme Music from #Uppbeat … Read More