What Are Book Deserts?

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: A book desert is defined as a “geographic area with limited access to age-appropriate books, print materials and reading culture.”  Reading requires time and access to materials. Students have a right to quality, diverse, and robust selections of books. Consider representation in reading materials. Readers who can see themselves in books are more likely to pick up more books. What is … Read More

Reflections on Teaching & Learning

Steven WeberBlog, Reflect Better

TL;DR: This post shares reflections on teaching and learning through a career in K-12 education. Poverty impacts a student’s ability to perform at school. School staff ultimately determines opportunity to learn. Formative assessment is the silver bullet. Provide opportunities for students to inquire. It’s no longer important to focus on what the teachers can do with the content. The goal … Read More

Psychology Is Greater Than Pedagogy

Ryan ScottBlog, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Generational poverty and general helplessness are very real. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), poverty, mental health, and learned helplessness all connect. Educators should embed hope in their lesson plans and schools should make it a part of the culture. Educators know that to truly overhaul our educational system, we must overhaul our focus: psychology is greater than pedagogy.  Psychology Is … Read More