TL;DR: During the pandemic, I decided to make my own podcast a reality. I listened to podcasts and discussed with others what I would need to get mine started. Out of the Trenches was born. It features teachers telling their stories about getting out of the trenches. Over the past two years, the podcast has been successful and continues to … Read More
What Does It Take To Lead?
TL;DR: To inspire the next generation of leaders, there are a number of skills that we must foster in the classroom. Have convictions, live with integrity, work on your communication skills, be self-aware, make adjustments when needed, encourage innovation, and be civic-minded. What makes a leader a good leader? It’s easy to point out an ineffective leader, along with exactly … Read More
Slow Summer Days: Reflect This Summer
TL;DR: Sometimes it is difficult to fully recognize where the dividing line is between work and home. Summers are meant to rejuvenate, reconnect, and reflect. When you start to dread going back, reflect on the goodness present in teaching. After finishing another long year of teaching, one of the most challenging since 2020, you may ask yourself: Is it worth … Read More
Teach Better Ambassadors: Like Radio Shack, But Still Relevant
TL;DR: Alex Valencic shares his journey from substitute teacher to Professional Learning Coordinator. The Teach Better Ambassador program is here to help everyone be better. The Ambassadors bring a vast array of experiences to support the Teach Better community. New Role After three years as a substitute teacher and seven years as a fourth-grade teacher in East Central Illinois, I … Read More
Back to Basics
TL;DR: After teaching for many years, I’ve realized I need to get back to the basics. The basics are realizing the impact I have on the students in my classroom. My relationships and connections with students will be my first priority. The world feels so complicated at the moment. With a constant barrage of information coming at us at every … Read More