TL;DR: This post is about the importance of showing gratitude to the people, experiences, and rewards that we accumulate through life’s journey. Celebrate your students’ cultural celebrations. Find out the “why” of the traditions behind the celebration. Teaching Gratitude It’s Thanksgiving season. I love hosting Thanksgiving meals with family. I have learned over the years that gratitude is one of … Read More
Educators Are Saving the Day: 4 Ways to Fill Their Cup
TL;DR: It’s easy to get lost in the daily grind and forget to see one another. Personalized small talk breaks the cycle of obligatory conversation. Small, personal tokens go further to create value than mass appreciation. Small Gestures to Show Appreciation The smallest gesture can be powerful when it shows us we’re seen—not as teachers, specialists, or principals, but as … Read More
8 Qualities of People Who Build Great Relationships
TL;DR: People who build great relationships listen, make time, are present, admit when they’re wrong, give good advice, are empathetic, commit to trusting others, and think of the other person. Eight Qualities of People Who Build Great Relationships While we enter our second or third month of school, many of us have already well-established relationships with our students to have … Read More
Think Better: Connecting with the Unconnected
TL;DR: It is important to connect with all students, even the ones who seem like they don’t want to connect with other people. Three steps to connect with students: Love them where they are, not where you think they should be. Keep interactions simple and easy. See and honor the endless possibilities with students. As educators, we continue to hear … Read More
Carrying Heavy Things: Support Students
TL;DR: We all have a lot going on and are carrying a lot of heavy things. What does that look like at your school with your students? Communicate with stakeholders to help carry the weight. Provide school-based support for students. Assist staff with self-care by practicing collective care and supporting boundaries. Carrying Heavy Things: Support Students “I’m afraid I won’t … Read More