Rush Hour Reactions

Suzanne DaileyBlog, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Feeling rushed and hurried can lead to our worst versions, affecting our decisions and behavior negatively. Princeton University’s experiment shows that having more time allows for more rational and kind decisions, while rushing narrows our cognitive map. We can train our brain to notice when we’re rushed and take a 2-degree shift in thought to slow down, focus on … Read More

Meaningful Lessons: Scientific Wisdom vs. Scientific Facts

Tim StephensonBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: There is a need for more relevant science education in the 21st century. This post emphasizes the importance of teaching wisdom and context alongside facts. Teachers should engage students by making lessons meaningful and applicable. Ok, let’s hit the reset button on my podcast, Science360, for a moment.  Let’s talk about why I bring the type of episodes that … Read More

5 Classroom Strategies for Social Emotional Learning Support

Michele HaikenBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Social emotional learning is already integrated into everyday teaching, helping students develop essential life skills alongside academic knowledge. Teachers can enhance SEL by implementing intentional strategies, such as reflection for self-awareness, authentic assessments for social awareness, choice boards for responsible decision making, checklists for self-management, and promoting collaboration and cooperation for building relationship skills. These practices align with CASEL’s … Read More

Be Your Students’ Champion

Colissa JordanBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: To empower students, teachers should be their champions, knowing them as individuals and fostering a positive classroom culture through positive reinforcement and tailored instruction. Autonomy, a growth mindset, and purposeful learning are key in motivating and inspiring students, with teachers playing a crucial role in believing in their students’ potential. Success in education relies on factors like teacher support, … Read More

We’re Gonna Keep On Talking Reflections

Lindsay LyonsBlog, Engage Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Matthew R. Kay and Jennifer Orr’s book, “We’re Gonna Keep on Talking,” focuses on leading meaningful race conversations in elementary classrooms. This post emphasizes the importance of fostering important mindsets like understanding that race discussions are ongoing and cannot be a one-time conversation. The book also highlights co-creating discussions with students, building their discussion skills, providing effective prompts for … Read More