Voices at the Table

Colissa JordanBlog, Connect Better

TL;DR: Both veteran and novice teachers have things they can learn from one another. All teachers should feel confident in sharing with others, as all voices at the table bring value. “So tell me what you want, what you really, really want I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna really, really, really wanna … Read More

Strengthening Students’ Reading and Writing Stamina

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: Giving students time to read and write independently is a classroom routine that encourages students to become readers and writers. A book review script that students can use to share video book recommendations with peers is included. When students share their writing with an authentic audience, it empowers them and builds classroom community. Having students set their own reading … Read More

Data Collection: The Simple + Easy Way

Lindsay TitusBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Data collection helps us make informed decisions for our students. Collaborating with a team to use data effectively is a powerful tool to guide our decisions. The steps for data collection include: understanding the why, collecting the data, checking in with the team, then analyzing and sharing the results. Data, as I’ve come to learn, is one of those … Read More

Everything I Know About Leadership, I Learned in First Grade

Teach Better TeamBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: It is important to lead with a vision and a clear direction. Modeling effective leadership can inspire new leaders. I do not have numerous significant memories of my first grade year at Delight Elementary School. Except for the occasional favorite lunch of square pizza with a side of kernel corn and my introduction to the bizarre cuisine termed Shepherd’s … Read More

Upstream Thinking: A Book Study Reflection

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Reflections on a book study of Upstream: How to Solve Problems Before They Happen by Dan Heath. This book provided insights to institutionalized problems and how they can be solved. Each member of the book study shares their favorite quote from the book with their biggest takeaways. In April, I had the pleasure of hosting a virtual book study … Read More