TL;DR: Listen closely to small conversations you have with others. Open yourself up to listen to learn. What may appear to be insignificant conversations can turn out to be golden nuggets of information. As stated in previous blogs, I teach astronomy. Now, what was one of my first teaching moments related to space? Back in the 90s, I was teaching … Read More
Have Time to Say Yes!
TL;DR: Say yes to students by providing them opportunities to explore their interests outside of the classroom. When you say yes to students exploring their interests, you are providing them time to practice and utilize real-world skills. If you came to me with an idea about something you really want to try or do, learn about, or create, the answer … Read More
It’s Time to Try Something Better
TL;DR: Now is the time to try something better than what you have done before. Each day, try something better, and over time, you will notice big changes. As I sat in this brilliant student’s IEP meeting, I couldn’t believe what I heard. I had to consciously control my facial expressions. I was shocked and frustrated. Not at the student … Read More
Who is YOUR Teacher?
TL;DR: Teachers need teachers too! It is important to reflect on who YOUR teacher is and how they have shaped and influenced you. Consider all of the different people in your life who have shaped who you are today. Last month I reflected on how teachers can influence students by making our classrooms a place they want to be. But … Read More
Smile…and the Whole World Smiles With You
TL;DR: Being a great speaker is all in the delivery. But it’s not just how you speak, it’s about what you say. Build connections with students and earn their respect by giving a smile, being real, and valuing the time you have with them. You may not always have an influence on students right away. Sometimes they don’t come around … Read More