TL;DR: Student engagement goes beyond compliance and involves attention, curiosity, interest, optimism, and passion for learning. Authentic engagement requires establishing connections with students to create a safe and supportive learning environment. Strategies for fostering connection in the classroom include showing genuine interest in students, providing choice and voice, conducting morning meetings, being intentional in planning, incorporating real-life connections to content, … Read More
A Culture of Connection Blog Series
A Culture of Connection Blog Series As administrators and educators, we have a responsibility to prioritize connections over compliance with staff and students. In March, Teach Better Team’s Admin Mastermind focused discussions around this topic. Check out the blog posts in this series to learn about strategies to maintain a positive culture in your school and emphasize connections over compliance! And … Read More
Under the Leaves
TL;DR: Running and physical movement can be an escape to do a lot of reflective thinking. Epiphany: A once clear sidewalk was now covered with leaves. Tread carefully just like with students. The path may look different but the foundation of your relationship is still there. Love our students and connect with them daily. A Thinking Runner I am a … Read More
Upholding School Culture
TL;DR: Keep school culture strong. Stay consistent with policies for tardies and absences. Consider students who have improved for awards. Administrators can use problem areas as places for making connections. Always start with One Good Thing. The Administrator Mastermind discussed the topic Connection vs. Compliance during the month of March. These discussions take place on Tuesday mornings at 9 AM EST. During … Read More
Connection Over Compliance: Let’s Soar!
TL;DR: Connections create the foundation of positive relationships. Positive relationships form trust with students and increase success. When difficult situations occur, positive relationships will make a difference. In today’s world, schools are often seen as prioritizing compliance over connections. Let’s reverse that! Prioritize connection over compliance instead! Compliance is necessary for maintaining order and safety. However, it can create a power … Read More