Calendar Non-Negotiables

Suzanne DaileyBlog, Connect Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Examining weekly, monthly, and yearly routines for happiness and well-being. Weekly: Carve out time for personal recharge and engage in meaningful activities like church. Yearly: Take a summer Facebook break for mental clarity and prioritize annual gatherings with loved ones for lasting joy. Calendar Non-Negotiables Back in April, we examined a few underwhelming routines I put in place every … Read More

Edcamp-Style Faculty Meetings

Steven WeberBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Originating in 2010, Edcamp flips traditional conferences by allowing attendees to choose session topics, fostering engagement and shared learning. Encourage problem-solving, resource-sharing, and collaboration among educators, elevating teacher voice and promoting ownership of learning. Staff propose and vote on topics, fostering engagement and addressing relevant issues. This participant-driven approach fosters trust and respect, crucial for teacher retention and professional … 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

Refocus Your Class for Quarter 4!

Dana GoodierBlog, Differentiate Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Spring quarter can be challenging with warmer weather and distractions. Tips: Refocus after break, use problem-based learning, and allow student-led projects. Get outside, link content to themes, and enjoy teaching for better engagement. Navigating Quarter 4 By the time you’re reading this, you’re likely returning from spring break. You are hopefully rested and refreshed and eager to get quarter … Read More

3 Questions For Curriculum Design Teams

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

TL;DR: Traditional curriculum focuses on content coverage, but shifts are needed towards prioritizing student learning over teaching. Identifying common misunderstandings aids in adapting instruction, fostering deeper understanding for diverse learners. Ownership of learning must shift from teacher-led activities to student agency, with emphasis on transferable understanding for real-world application. 3 Questions For Curriculum Design Teams Traditional teaching focuses on content, … Read More