How Do I Know If I Am Ready To Lead A PD Session?

Alex T. ValencicBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Presenting at an education conference or district professional development day can be scary. You are the only one who can tell your story. You can design professional learning that informs, inspires, and invites change. I still remember the first time I led a teacher professional development session. My district had done a call for presenters for a teacher institute … Read More

Why Black History Belongs in Every Classroom All Year

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Manage Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

Why Black History Belongs in Every Classroom Year-Round Despite Black individuals’ profound contributions and enduring legacies throughout history, the full breadth of Black experiences remains underrepresented in many school curricula. This gap denies students a comprehensive education and hinders the opportunity to foster a more inclusive and informed society. To address this disparity, educators must champion the integration of Black … Read More

Do Kindergarten Crafts Really Make a Difference?

Faigie KobreBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Teach Happier

Traditional, copycat crafts have long been the norm in most early childhood classrooms and kindergarten classrooms, despite not having any educational or developmental theories to support them. What can be wrong with these adorable, sometimes intricate projects that have have been sent home from preschool and kindergarten classrooms for as long as any of us can remember? Meeting students where … Read More

Thrive in 2025 – Lead with HOPE

Brandi KellyBlog, Connect Better, Self Care Better

As we step boldly into 2025, it’s time to unlock the transformative power of HOPE to create the life we truly desire. HOPE is more than a feeling; it’s a strategy—a roadmap to thriving in every area of our lives. Here’s how you can embrace HOPE and make 2025 your best year yet: H – Habits Habits are the foundation … Read More

Celebrate and Support Bilingual Students

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better

TL;DR: Bilingualism enhances cognitive skills, academic performance, and cultural understanding. Schools can foster multilingual environments through culturally responsive teaching, resources, and family support. Supporting bilingual students builds global competency and celebrates linguistic diversity. Bilingualism is much more than just being able to speak two languages. It is a powerful asset that shapes cognitive development and enhances academic achievement. As classrooms … Read More