TL;DR: Here are four ways to establish positive traditions and communication to cultivate culture. (1) Decorate your room and school with school colors so students identify as being a part of the community. (2) Explicitly teach school traditions like learning the Alma Mater words. (3) Celebrate students by creating a “Wall of Fame,” which is a collection of student pictures … Read More
Maintaining Your Mindset When Preparing for the Unknown
TL;DR: It is important to maintain a positive mindset when preparing for the unknown. Preparation breeds protection, security, and safety. Just as we prepare for the threat of inclement weather, we should prepare for the possibility of sudden school closures. Create classroom routines and communicate with parents regularly to maintain an environment of reliability. Just when we thought we had … Read More
Remember Love This School Year
TL;DR: Sometimes we struggle and need to put in greater effort in order to feel aligned, content, and balanced. Happiness is a discipline. We may be feeling nervous about returning to school, but remember love this school year. People remember us for the way we love. So as we begin a new school year, we can love our students, colleagues, … Read More
The Gift of Care
TL;DR: The practice of choosing One Word can be more effective than making New Year’s resolutions. One student chose the word CARE and he demonstrated it every day. Begin to see kind and caring gestures for you as gifts of care because it deepens your gratitude and relationships. Give the gift of care for others by not only thinking of … Read More
Building Relationships in the First Weeks of School
TL;DR Strong relationships in the classroom are the foundation for a successful school year. Be intentional with the activities you choose and be willing to be vulnerable with your students. It is important to scaffold relationship building with students. I believe that I am an outstanding teacher because I work hard every day to build relationships with my students to … Read More