TL;DR: It is important to lead with a vision and a clear direction. Modeling effective leadership can inspire new leaders. I do not have numerous significant memories of my first grade year at Delight Elementary School. Except for the occasional favorite lunch of square pizza with a side of kernel corn and my introduction to the bizarre cuisine termed Shepherd’s … Read More
Leading Excellence – Michael Horton
Michael Horton began his career as a physics teacher and then became an administrator at two county offices where he coached principals to turn around underperforming schools and trained science teachers. He then coached AVID schools to prepare underrepresented students for college. Now, he’s the assistant principal of a highly acclaimed STEM charter school in Southern California. He’s written 3 … Read More
New Leader, New School
TL;DR: The impact school leaders have on the entire school community. Troubling impacts of new leaders and inconsistency in leadership positions. A possible solution to the high turnover and trouble it causes. Each school has a unique culture of teachers and leaders who work to create a relationship of trust. When a leader changes, it can completely disrupt the culture … Read More
Fluff Ain’t Enough But it has a Time and Place
TL;DR: Fluff ain’t enough in our classrooms, but it certainly has it’s time and place. FLUFFy ideas to take back to your schools next school year. I am the first to argue “Fluff ain’t enough” in a classroom. In a world of educators sharing inspirational stories, crafting lessons on neon paper, and swapping the cutest fonts, I wonder sometimes if … Read More
Maintaining Positive Culture Even When Apart
TL;DR: Classroom culture is something we all work hard to build and maintain. Steps and ideas to cultivate our classroom culture, even while apart. Realistic ideas and suggestions to connect with students, staff, and families from home. Classroom and school culture are massive components of our jobs as educators. It’s vital that we cultivate an environment where our students and … Read More