Returning from the winter break marks the unofficial half-way mark of the school year. Ken and Matt talk about the best strategies and ideas to think about as you return from the coveted winter break. There is so much we want to accomplish with students in such a short amount of time. This episode gets a little emotional when Ken … Read More
Hike New Experiences with Confidence
TL;DR: New experiences shape who we are and who we become. Struggles push you to grow. Treasure the memories and life adventures. New Experiences A long hike in the woods, following paths of yellow blazes on tall evergreens, and passing through nature in rural spaces provide everything I need to restore my weary soul. There is something to be said … Read More
Circle The Wagons: Embracing Conflict
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
Lessons from the Faculty of Education
TL;DR: Knowing yourself as a teacher is an important consideration. The importance of knowing you will face or witness racism is a consideration. Teamwork opportunities and reflection afterward are other important considerations. Equity and Inclusion Reflection Questions Do you know yourself really well as an educator? What kind of institutional racism have you witnessed in education? How have you set … Read More
Leaders, Here’s How To Support Interdisciplinary Unit Planning
TL;DR: Interdisciplinary units deepen students’ learning experiences. Have teachers decide what they want to focus on for an interdisciplinary unit. Hold a planning meeting to talk about the unit and co-plan. Plan on meeting throughout the unit with other teachers to see how it’s going and tweak things. Allow teachers to teach what they’re excited about. Celebrate your successes! Interdisciplinary … Read More