So as you sit in a meeting, you start to hear rumblings of a new initiative that your district will be rolling out. This could be anything from a new policy, a new vendor coming in, or maybe a new curriculum that is being purchased. We all have the same gut reaction, “Grreeeaat…another thing to do.” As teachers, we are … Read More
8 Tips to Make Your Next Meeting More Valuable for Your Teachers
There aren’t many things more frustrating than getting up earlier than normal to attend a mandatory meeting. Except, of course, getting up earlier than normal to attend an unnecessary or inefficient meeting. Yep, we’ve all been there: sitting in our seat, more tired than normal, annoyed with the fact that you probably didn’t need to be at this meeting. Or … Read More
In Your Classroom, Your Excuses Are Invalid.
This Might Get Ugly… I’m going to start by fully understanding the vulgar gestures you may want to make towards your computer screen or the nasty emails you might write to me after reading this, but I think it needs to be said. But I believe that, by the end of this, you will at least partially agree. First, let me admit. … Read More
Is It Homework or Busy Work?
It’s The Age Old Debate. Depending on which camp you belong to, you are either starting to get fired up about students needing practice at home, OR you are thinking “down with homework!” To be honest, I see the merit of both arguments and there is a lot of research out there that supports practice and also says additional work … Read More
Teacher Evaluations and Why They Don’t Matter in Your Classroom
Is your classroom evaluation the “Greatest Show On Earth?” While working with many schools and districts I often discuss the evaluation process with both principals and their administration, as well as their teachers. It’s always a somewhat touchy subject, but I’ve never been able to figure out why. Why the current system is lacking. While I fully understand that you … Read More