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
Co-Teaching: The Mythical Creature That Actually Exists
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
What Keeps Lifers in the Classroom?
TL;DR: Lifelong educators see teaching as a mission, driven by passion and a belief in the power of education. They find emotional fulfillment in student success and intellectual growth through continued learning. Despite sacrifices, resilience and a strong support system keep them committed to their students’ development. A deep love of teaching, which goes beyond a job description, propels lifelong … Read More