TL;DR: Wordle is a word game that quickly gained popularity. Playing Wordle as bell work is a quick and engaging way to start your class period. Wordle allows the opportunity to learn and practice phonics skills in a more natural way—through a game. Playing games is a natural way to boost student confidence and for them to see the growth … Read More
“Tough” Love: The Risks, Rewards, and Resilience of Teaching At-Risk Kids
TL;DR: Working with at-risk students takes a desire to understand who they are. A revelation of working with at-risk students: They don’t mean it. They don’t see it and don’t realize what they are doing. Developmentally, they may not be able to see you. Ruby Payne’s book “A Framework for Understanding Poverty” helps us see “hidden rules” and how they … Read More
Let Them Know You: Substitute Teachers
TL;DR: Introductions are important when subbing. Clearly introduce yourself to students right away and start to show your investment. Form relationships with others in the building by introducing yourself to them, as well. Substitute Teacher: Let Them Know You I walked into a classroom and began to get prepared for the day. Students began to enter and then one student … Read More
Parent Communication
TL;DR: There are various ways to communicate with parents: set expectations and use technology. Set expectations and parameters around response times. Tip: Have positive interactions with parents. There are various ways parent communication can be enhanced through technology: Remind, FlipGrid, email, and Google Voice. Jessica joined Rae on the Daily Drop In to chat about Parent Communication Refresh. Click here … Read More
The Gift of Happiness: 6 Keys to Cultivating Happiness
TL;DR: Happiness can be cultivated in simple ways in the classroom. There are 6 keys to cultivating happiness. Happiness is a mindset and a heartset. It is a gift you can give to yourself and others. Happiness is something you can protect. In my experience, when I ask young children how they feel, many will say “happy.” When I ask the … Read More
