TL;DR: The difference between playing games and gamification. Elements of gamification… that are also best practices of pedagogy. Research & evidence that supports using gamification for student success. As a teacher of a fully-gamified class, I often hear phrases such as, “That’s really cool, but how do you know the system is working?” Most of the time this involves a … Read More
Be There: Your Students Need You Now More Than Ever
TL;DR: An awakening about what our students really need right now. Encouragement during this time of uncertainty. Coming back stronger and better because we cared. I miss you. Those words from my second graders this week on a video call went straight to my heart. Right now, we are all settling into a new “normal,” but one thing that we … Read More
Supporting Teachers As They Navigate Remote Teaching & Learning
TL;DR: Teachers are facing unique, challenging circumstances right now… but so are administrators! Tips to connect with and support the educators in your district, building, or on your team. Our teachers are doing the work of supporting our students in unprecedented circumstances. They are adding skills to their toolboxes in real time and balancing the needs of their own family … Read More
Covid19 – A Game Changer in Education
TL;DR: Covid19 has changed our educational system rapidly, and in a big way. A list of resources for districts and teachers. Resources for mental health and stress relief. Covid19 is a game changer unlike any we’ve ever seen. Just look around you. Streets are empty; stores are closed. Parents are with their kids, working from home. Covid19 changed the way … Read More
Establishing a Healthy Routine While School is Out
TL;DR: Things are unknown, uncertain, and stressful. It’s important to set a schedule & give ourselves a routine. Focus on what we can control instead of what we can’t. The world around us is changing by the second, and educators have had the rugs pulled out from under them. We are craving our healthy routine, but it’s nearly impossible to … Read More