National Hispanic Heritage Month

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15 to October 15 and celebrates Hispanic culture and history. Schools and communities host events to highlight notable Hispanic contributions and promote diversity. Students can engage through online resources, picture books, and cultural activities to deepen understanding. National Hispanic Heritage Month National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 … Read More

Parent Communication in a Co-Teaching Classroom

Bridget GenglerBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Effective parent-teacher communication can positively impact student success. In co-teaching, aligning on communication strategies with parents is key to a strong partnership. Four ways to improve communication include consistent updates, using a shared platform, discussing messages beforehand, and sending positive notes. “Mrs. G, my mom told me what you said in the message.” His face brightened with a huge … Read More

Empowering Students with Inclusive Prompts

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Back-to-school writing prompts can be exciting, but they also need to be inclusive. Some prompts may unintentionally alienate students in poverty. Choose prompts that allow all students to express themselves regardless of their background. Back-to-school time can be exciting but also challenging. Writing prompts help students express themselves. However, some prompts can unintentionally harm students in poverty. It’s crucial … Read More

Unlocking Creativity: National Arts in Education Week

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Arts education boosts student engagement, literacy, and aspirations. It fosters a positive school environment with fewer disciplinary issues. There is no negative effect on standardized test scores, dispelling myths about arts programs. Let’s unlock the power of creativity! When surveyed by the nonprofit organization Americans for the Arts, members of the U.S. public overwhelmingly agreed that the arts are … Read More

Co-Teaching: The Mythical Creature That Actually Exists

Rebecca HuffBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Co-teaching can bring apprehension or excitement; the key is equality between teachers. Successful co-teaching requires open communication, shared classroom space, and mutual respect. Both teachers should be seen as equals by students, with shared responsibility and visibility. When educators hear the word co-teaching, a couple of emotions immediately surface. For some, there’s apprehension. For others, it’s excitement! I was … Read More