TL;DR: It’s easy to get lost in the daily grind and forget to see one another. Personalized small talk breaks the cycle of obligatory conversation. Small, personal tokens go further to create value than mass appreciation. Small Gestures to Show Appreciation The smallest gesture can be powerful when it shows us we’re seen—not as teachers, specialists, or principals, but as … Read More
Aspire to Lead: The Value of a PLN
TL;DR Build your PLN as you listen, read, and connect. Find support as you connect with others. Being alone as a leader is a choice. The Value of a PLN: Building a PLN For some, building a PLN (a personal or professional learning network) starts with social media, such as Twitter. While it is true that I have been a … Read More
What Do You Do With An Idea?
TL;DR: This post shares steps on how to move an idea from thought to reality. Brainstorm and research, tell, debug and show your story, and find a thought partner. Several years ago, I worked in a school district that gave every elementary teacher in the district an allotment of $500 to be used for classroom supplies. This money could be … Read More
Educate Like Ants – Be Relentless
TL;DR: Ants appear to roam anywhere and everywhere outside but when they come inside your home, their purpose becomes more evident. Ants are strong and tenacious. Educators can learn by studying them and being more like them. They know their WHY. Do you? If you haven’t thought about your WHY in a while, it’s time to revisit and rediscover. It … Read More
A Professional Learning Network
TL;DR: Twenty years ago, teachers had each other’s backs. Their PLN were teachers down the hall. Now, PLNs look different. When you attend national conferences, you have the opportunity to connect with other educators across the U.S. You can learn and grow from others by asking questions. Five benefits of a PLN: learning, sharing, celebrating, reflecting, and growing. A PLN … Read More