Under the Leaves

Michael EarnshawBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Leadership, Student Engagement

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

Why Gradeless? Breaking Free From Grades

Mike SzczepanikBlog, Grading & Assessment, Innovation, Mastery Learning, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: Our grading habits can be inconsistent and have limited value in the learning process. The extrinsic motivation of grades often limits our students’ drive for deeper learning. Going gradeless is not a simple process, but a worthy one to help students reflect, listen to feedback, and grow. In traditional education systems, grades have long been the primary measure of … Read More

Transforming Learning Space: 20 Questions Educators Should Ask

Steven WeberBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Innovation, Reflect Better, Student Engagement

TL;DR: We need more academic playgrounds. We need to spend time observing children in outdoor spaces to discover how indoor learning spaces can be better designed. Consider 20 questions to ask when designing and transforming learning space to enhance student performance. The goal should be to design learning spaces that meet the needs of today’s learners. All students deserve a … Read More