TL;DR: There are strategies to help you accomplish tasks and feel joy. Writing down your to-dos and figuring out what needs to be the focus can help clear your mind. Use tools to help you work through your problems and challenges to find joy. When chaos abounds (and when doesn’t it as an educator?) and things feel like they are … Read More
Looking Back on 20 Years in K-12 Education
TL;DR: Read a reflection on some pieces of Dana’s journey in K-12 education. There are many people to thank over the course of 20 years. This week, in early August, I recall it being exactly 20 years since I first came to Colorado and began my journey in K-12 education. World Traveller Context I lived in Quebec City, Canada for … Read More
Think Better: Staying Present and Leaving Shouldville Behind
TL;DR: Many teachers battle with shouldville—all of the things we should do or have done. Dwelling on all the things can cause stress, anxiety, and resentment. Make sure you are really focusing on what is most beneficial including your own personal time. As an educator, August was always the month that I quickly found myself living in shouldville. I would find … Read More
Let’s Recombobulate
TL;DR: Recombobulate is an amazing word that means to cause to think again or reorient. Let’s get in the right mindset for the school year. Each day, say the entire date aloud. It reminds you that today is not only temporary but a fresh start and a new opportunity. Reclaim quiet pockets of time at the very beginning and end … Read More
Pinewood Derby: Continual Growth and Success
TL;DR: Watching my son learn and grow over the years in the derby car races is a lot like watching your school grow. Over time, we reflect, make adjustments, and improve. We can celebrate the growth and successes along the way. Last weekend, we raced our Pinewood Derby Cars in our pack Pinewood Derby event. I say “we” raced because … Read More