TL;DR: A split class is a class created with students from two different age groups. Split classes allow you to form deeper relationships with students. Students are seen as individual learners in a split classroom. A split classroom allows students the opportunity to lead younger students. split class: a class grouping that includes students at two adjacent grade levels (for … Read More
Let’s Recombobulate
TL;DR: Recombobulate is an amazing word that means to cause to think again or reorient. Let’s get in the right mindset for the school year. Each day, say the entire date aloud. It reminds you that today is not only temporary but a fresh start and a new opportunity. Reclaim quiet pockets of time at the very beginning and end … Read More
What’s the Focus?
TL;DR: Every school is different and has its own goals. We should be following research, but how do we sift through it to find what will help us meet our goals? Identify your values, focus on your strengths, and determine what will motivate the change. Different Schools, Different Goals I have an amazing job. I get the opportunity to travel … Read More
Sub Better: Know the Content
TL;DR Knowing the content of what you are teaching will help you be more confident as a substitute. Know where to look for help; it’s ok that you don’t know everything. Use the resources available to support student learning. Stretching Outside of Your Comfort Zone I received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in May 2008 and began working that … Read More
Why (and How) I Wrote Curriculum During Summer Break
TL;DR: Summer break can be a great time to create or update lessons. Spending time on curriculum while energized can benefit both you and the students in the new school year. I love the clearly defined break for summer vacation. At the end of each year, I was always ready for well-deserved time off. At the same time, I always … Read More