TL;DR: Learn 5 research-backed strategies to boost happiness at work, applicable both in and out of the classroom. Embrace negative emotions as signals, rethink productivity, and practice self-compassion to reduce stress. Craft your job to align with your strengths and nurture belonging for a greater sense of purpose. We made it to October! First Days of School, Back to School … Read More
Parent Communication in a Co-Teaching Classroom
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
Fill Up Your Mental Health Toolkit
TL;DR: Teaching requires balancing curriculum with social and emotional support for students. Strategies for maintaining mental health include organization, routines, and self-reflection. Connection, positivity, and making daily joyful choices contribute to a healthy teaching environment. Teaching is a rewarding, yet challenging profession. Not only are you responsible for teaching the curriculum to a classroom full of students, but for facilitating … Read More
The Rewards and Challenges of a Lifetime in Teaching
TL;DR: Lifelong educators find immense intellectual and emotional joy. They also face significant challenges like maintaining work-life balance and adapting to changing policies. Personal sacrifices, emotional resilience, and embracing technology are central to their career satisfaction. Mental health care and support systems are crucial for the well-being and longevity of teachers in their profession. Although their jobs provide them with … Read More
Refocus Your Assessment: Grading and Feedback for Understanding
TL;DR: Grading needs to evolve from compliance-driven to growth-focused. Feedback should be targeted, manageable, and meaningful for student growth. Not every assignment needs to be graded; assess only what matters most. Educators, it’s 2024, and wow, the last few years have been a wild ride for all of us. We’ve navigated a global pandemic, unprecedented shifts in our profession, and … Read More