The Evolving Nature of Professional Development

Sanam EdwardsBlog, Differentiation, Edtech, Innovation, Leadership

TL;DR: There is a need for specialized educational professional development. PD that gives choice to the participants helps them draw on their strengths and weaknesses, as well as build meaningful relationships with other educators. Educational Professional Development: A Transformation  Virtual learning has altered the fundamental nature of the way we teach. The last year and a half have embraced huge … Read More

Engage and Elevate Better – Professional Development

Martin SilvermanBlog, Differentiation, Leadership, Lesson Planning, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: This is the first post of a new blog series about how we engage and how we elevate that engagement. Beginning of the school year PD likely was one size fits all but did not fully reach all. Engage our audience by considering what we do as effective teachers who plan for diverse learners in the classroom. Learn what … Read More

Student Voices

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiation, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: No matter the grade level, emphasize student voices. Let students have a voice; hear their opinions and build upon them. Consider student voices when lesson planning and teaching curriculum and content knowledge. “Equity and Inclusion Just Got Better” Journaling/Reflection Questions: How would you incorporate student voice into your curriculum? What does advocacy look like for you as an educator? … Read More

Classroom Spaces

Teach Better TeamBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Students respond better to classroom spaces that are interactive and encourage exploration, movement, and collaboration. Students learn science better through instruction that allows them to have access to the entire classroom space when inspiration strikes. Consider taking the time to honestly reflect on your classroom space to make it more engaging to your students. How are you using your … Read More

Teacher Mindsets that Matter for Multilingual Learners

Carly SpinaBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Reflect Better, Self-Care, Student Engagement

TL;DR: The beginning of the school year gives us an opportunity for a fresh start. Instead of a negative mindset, identify student’s passions and interests, and how we utilize those to empower students.  We can have some fresh mindsets about unmotivated students, lack of support at home, and students without a dominant language. Mindsets to embrace are linguistic inclusivity, want … Read More