TL;DR: Strong communication and the use of social media establishes and strengthens relationships within the community. Tips for communicating on social media include building school social capital, activating the administrative team, and giving voice and choice. Tip #1 for Communicating on Social Media: Build School Social Capital The purpose of strong communication and the use of social media is to … Read More
Highlights of 2020: In Case You Missed It
TL;DR: This post shares highlights of Teach Better blog posts in 2020. Categories for posts include pandemic teaching, self-care, instructional strategies, conversations, growth mindset, communication, and leadership. Pandemic Teaching 3 Ways to Support Students Virtually by Chelsea Nicolino 5 Ways to Support Students and Teachers Virtually and Maintaining Rigor through Distance Learning by Chad Ostrowski Key Considerations for Educators During … Read More
Breaking the Barriers of Curriculum Design
TL;DR: There are many potential barriers to curriculum design. Potential barriers include absence of a curriculum framework, change, communication, products, funding, hidden curriculum, time, and tradition. Strategies for breaking the barriers are shared. Curriculum design is a rewarding process that provides educators with the opportunity to discuss what is essential. My experiences with curriculum design and observing the work of … Read More
How to Handle Distance Learning’s “Ghost” Students
TL;DR: We must acknowledge the concerns about student engagement and attendance that may occur during remote learning. We don’t know everyone’s situation so we must offer grace. According to a meta-analysis of psychiatric research, social isolation and loneliness during the pandemic negatively affect children’s levels of anxiety and depression. Listed below are ways to reach out to students. Use any … Read More
First-Year Assistant Principal: Pandemic Style
TL;DR: The pandemic caused uncertainties at the beginning of the school year, but leaders must still lead by figuring out a plan to serve and keeping students at the center of our focus. Effective leadership means you communicate regularly, listen attentively, offer empathy and support, and meet people’s needs with flexibility and adaptability. Courageous, strong leadership is necessary to ease … Read More