Cognitive Student Engagement in 2023

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Explore the evolution of student engagement in the post-COVID-19 educational landscape. Do this with a focus on aligning education with student needs and passions. Gain insights from John Dewey’s philosophy and John Hattie’s research on empowering students in their learning. Learn strategies to enhance student engagement, including building personal connections, setting high expectations, differentiating grading, and giving students control … Read More

Want a Better Classroom? Get to Know Your Students

Dan ThomasBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: Educators face growing challenges engaging a generation with abundant distractions and information. Building meaningful connections with students is essential for their success. Strategies for connecting with students include greeting them warmly, establishing classroom expectations, looking for shared interests, incorporating playfulness, communicating with parents, and attending extracurricular events. Prioritize kindness, respect, and building connections over strict curriculum adherence to foster … Read More

The Power of Finding an Online Community of Teachers

Jeff GargasBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: The internet has brought people worldwide together, enabling the creation of online communities based on shared interests, values, and experiences. Joining these digital communities can provide a sense of belonging, support during tough times, and opportunities for personal growth through shared knowledge and accountability. Online communities offer not only personal benefits but also opportunities for networking and professional development, … Read More

4 Ways to Nurture Your Teacher-Student Relationships

Bridget GenglerBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: Recognition Matters: To ensure students feel valued, learn and use their names correctly from day one. Names are an important part of their identity. Warm Welcomes: Greet students at the door with personalized gestures, like high fives or hugs, setting a positive tone and reinforcing that they are loved. Encourage Expression: Create opportunities for students to share their voices … Read More

Episode 142: In AWE of Erika Bare-Connectors Series

Sarah JohnsonIn Awe Podcast

Erika has been a proud educator for over twenty years, serving in a variety of roles. She currently serves the Assistant Superintendent for the Ashland School District in beautiful Southern Oregon. She grew up in Portland, OR, graduating from the University of Oregon with a Master’s in Education in 2001. She dove head first into her career as a special … Read More