How Can We Fight Censorship?

Daniel LindstromBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Book challenges in the US nearly doubled in 2022, focusing largely on children’s and young people’s books. Response to censorship includes President Biden’s plan to appoint a federal coordinator to address book bans, along with efforts from educational organizations, librarians, and publishers like Penguin Random House. Various groups, such as the Great Books Foundation, are actively fighting censorship by … Read More

Reading Is Breathing In: Book Choices Matter

Kari PitstickBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The post uses an analogy of weightlifting to explain the importance of choosing different levels of books. It categorizes books into painless (easy), on-target (comfortable), and challenging (difficult) levels, emphasizing the need to vary one’s reading choices to grow as a reader. Encourages students to primarily read on-target books but also occasionally challenge themselves with more difficult material while … Read More

We’re Gonna Keep On Talking Reflections

Lindsay LyonsBlog, Engage Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Matthew R. Kay and Jennifer Orr’s book, “We’re Gonna Keep on Talking,” focuses on leading meaningful race conversations in elementary classrooms. This post emphasizes the importance of fostering important mindsets like understanding that race discussions are ongoing and cannot be a one-time conversation. The book also highlights co-creating discussions with students, building their discussion skills, providing effective prompts for … Read More

Write a Book: We All Have Stories to Share

Michael EarnshawBlog, Connect Better

TL;DR: Share your story! Find a writing time that works for you and show yourself compassion if you miss a session. Start sharing your writing by becoming a blogger for Teach Better! Believe in yourself. Skater Boi Turned Writer Ever since I was a young, little punk, skating around town, sporting a mohawk, and donning oversized shorts, ripped-up Vans skate … Read More

Six Tips to Write Your First Book

Kristen NanBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: There are 6 tips to write your first book: go digital, start writing, keep organized, know your why and stick to it, move your mindset, and dangle the carrot. Start writing! Whether you have a story of inspiration and determination or a wealth of knowledge and experience to share, writing a book may be the perfect opportunity for you. … Read More