Reading as Rebellion: Empowering Students to Read for Knowledge

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Lesson Plan Better

In an age dominated by social media, video content, and endless digital distractions, inspiring students to read for pleasure—beyond school assignments—can be challenging. However, what if we reframed reading as an act of rebellion? Encouraging students to read not because they have to but because they want to can transform how they perceive books, knowledge, and the power of independent … Read More

5 Tips to Keep Kids Learning This Summer

Suzanne RogersBlog, Engage Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The “summer slide” may be more myth than reality, with mixed research on summer learning loss. Summer offers opportunities for students, especially post-pandemic, to catch up and get back on track. Engage kids with fun learning activities, reading, nature exploration, summer programs, and routines to keep their minds active. Summer is almost here. School is winding down, and students … Read More

How Can We Fight Censorship?

Daniel LindstromBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Book challenges in the US nearly doubled in 2022, focusing largely on children’s and young people’s books. Response to censorship includes President Biden’s plan to appoint a federal coordinator to address book bans, along with efforts from educational organizations, librarians, and publishers like Penguin Random House. Various groups, such as the Great Books Foundation, are actively fighting censorship by … Read More

Reading Is Breathing In: Book Choices Matter

Kari PitstickBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The post uses an analogy of weightlifting to explain the importance of choosing different levels of books. It categorizes books into painless (easy), on-target (comfortable), and challenging (difficult) levels, emphasizing the need to vary one’s reading choices to grow as a reader. Encourages students to primarily read on-target books but also occasionally challenge themselves with more difficult material while … Read More

Reading Engagement Tips

Suzanne RogersBlog, Engage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Be a reading role model: Inspire and create a reading-friendly environment at home. Keep it fun: Let them choose books, create cozy reading spaces, and make reading an enjoyable experience. Talk about what they’re reading: Encourage discussions and book-related conversations to enrich their experience. Give them a chance to read aloud: Foster their reading skills and let their passions … Read More