TL;DR: Difficult conversations with students or parents are here to stay. We can improve the outcome of these conversations with strategies designed to minimize emotional responses. Consider using the word “you” with care and purpose when discussing negative or critical topics. Use intentional verb choice to affect the tone of your messages or conversations. Focus on the goal or outcome, … Read More
De-escalation Strategies During a Tough Conversation
TL;DR: There are a number of de-escalation strategies one can use to diffuse any tough conversation: (1) Move to a private area. (2) Be empathetic and non-judgmental. (3) Keep your tone and body language neutral. (4) Provide choices. The Teach Better Academy course, Addressing Tough Topics in Schools, shares communication strategies for challenging topics in your school community. As an … Read More
Asking for Help
TL;DR: Having clear expectations doesn’t mean you won’t need help. Be willing to ask students, teachers, and leaders for help. Know when to resolve issues on your own and when to reach out for support. Establishing expectations in a classroom is an incredibly important first step in building a community of learners. Whether that community will be together for the … Read More
Start Fresh and Begin Again Blog Series
Start Fresh and Begin Again Blog Series The beginning of a new calendar year provides us with a great opportunity to have a start fresh and to begin again. What are some things you wish to start anew? What are some habits you hope to pick up again? Let’s choose to be a little bit BETTER and a little bit braver this … Read More
Time Management 101 for the New Year
TL;DR: Managing your time better leads to enjoying teaching and life more. Setting goals can help you be productive and avoid burnout. This New Year, I wanted to encourage you to manage your time. Your busy time, your spare time, and your alone time. I can’t think of a better time to blog about this topic than now as we … Read More