TL;DR: When we open our eyes to see atypical things as gifts, we find more to treasure as we grow our capacity to feel joy. Learn to practice mindful moments of deeper gratitude when we begin to discover and see more things as gifts. We can see words as gifts to us. We can give the gift of words by … Read More
Navigating Loss as a New Teacher
TL;DR: Talking about loss is a difficult topic to discuss but it’s important in order to share coping strategies. When there is a loss in the community, throw out the lesson plan, provide opportunities for student choice, and be open and authentic. When dealing with personal loss, take care of yourself first and don’t pour yourself into work, lean on … Read More
3 Levels of SEL Implementation
TL;DR: SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) is as important as academic learning. For successful SEL implementation, teacher training frameworks must develop educator social-emotional competence and understanding of students’ Social-Emotional Learning needs. Integrate SEL by adding an SEL PLC session to your regular schedule. CASEL offers a school-wide guide to SEL. Four classroom SEL practices are explicit instruction, integrated with academics, youth voice … Read More
3 Tips for Healing from Educator Burnout or Disengagement
TL;DR: Heal from educator burnout or disengagement by recognizing emotions, setting boundaries, and developing self-awareness. We need to intentionally make the decision to heal every day. So, you’re exhausted. You’ve been spending copious amounts of time working and it feels like there is no end in sight. Sometimes, you find yourself staring at the computer screen, scrolling aimlessly through social … Read More
4 Tips to Reimagine Assessment
TL;DR: Assessment should be a series of events, each leading to the next moment of improvement. Reimagine assessment by determining what you value and seeking assessment that leads to instruction. Understand that “one and done” is not enough and consider consistency and recency when assessing. As I am writing this, March Madness is ramping up. It is my favorite time … Read More