Braving Tough Topics Blog Series Overview You can use several communication strategies to address challenging topics as they enter your classroom and the broader community. As educators, we must take these tough conversations with students, parents, colleagues, and administrators, but what is the best way to do that? This blog series shares de-escalation strategies, ideas to enhance structures to create … Read More
Difficult Conversations with Students and Parents: New Strategies for a New Year
TL;DR: Difficult conversations with students or parents are here to stay. We can improve the outcome of these conversations with strategies designed to minimize emotional responses. Consider using the word “you” with care and purpose when discussing negative or critical topics. Use intentional verb choice to affect the tone of your messages or conversations. Focus on the goal or outcome, … Read More
De-escalation Strategies During a Tough Conversation
TL;DR: There are a number of de-escalation strategies one can use to diffuse any tough conversation: (1) Move to a private area. (2) Be empathetic and non-judgmental. (3) Keep your tone and body language neutral. (4) Provide choices. The Teach Better Academy course, Addressing Tough Topics in Schools, shares communication strategies for challenging topics in your school community. As an … Read More
3 Myths that Keep Us From Talking About Racial and Gender Justice in SchoolsÂ
TL;DR: Consider the 3 myths that keep us from talking about racial and gender justice in schools. It is important for all students to discuss racial and gender justice by acknowledging the impact and by taking action. There are opportunities to talk about racial and gender justice in younger grades and in various subject areas beyond Social Studies and Ethnic … Read More