A Transition to Co-Teaching After 28 Years

Stephan HughesBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Despite 28 years of teaching, the author had never experienced co-teaching until recently. Initial attempts at collaboration failed due to lack of planning and organization. A recent partnership with a special education assistant has led to positive changes in the classroom. The Missed Opportunity of Co-Teaching What if I told you that in my twenty-eight years of experience as … Read More

Building Strong Co-Teacher Relationships

Bridget GenglerBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: A meeting at Starbucks led to a successful two-year co-teaching partnership. Building a strong co-teaching relationship involves getting to know each other, honest communication, and respecting boundaries. Key tips include spending time together, maintaining open communication, setting boundaries, enjoying laughter, and reflecting on practice. We decided to meet at Starbucks on that warm summer day. We were still unsure … Read More

Nurturing Co-Teaching Relationships

Janel SebenyBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Successful co-teaching requires trust and shared expectations, developed over time through relationship building and communication. Regular co-planning sessions are essential for creating cohesive lessons and addressing student needs, ensuring both teachers are aligned and prepared. Implementing various co-teaching techniques, such as station teaching and parallel teaching, allows teachers to leverage their unique strengths and provide targeted support to students. … Read More

Co-Teach Better: Comrade In Arms

Meghan PahlkeBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: The end of the school year can be chaotic, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to foster camaraderie in co-teaching relationships. Co-teachers should find authentic ways to showcase their unique personalities as a team, whether through matching outfits or shared actions based on common interests. Strategies for building camaraderie include leveraging commonalities for positive shared actions, demonstrating positive interactions … Read More

Love And Marriage: Co-Teaching Relationships

Meghan PahlkeBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Co-teaching is a relationship similar to an arranged marriage with shared experiences that feel like triumphs and challenges. Continue to get to know each other personally and professionally to build the relationship. Ask questions to learn more about each other. Have proactive communication to discuss how you will share responsibilities. Ask reflective questions. Recognize each co-teaching partner is unique … Read More