TL;DR: Introducing mindfulness in the classroom can transform student behavior and teacher-student relationships. Focusing on social and emotional learning helps students manage their emotions and improves classroom climate. Teachers should prioritize self-care and continuously seek new strategies to enhance the learning environment. Picture this. You are incredibly excited to share an activity you think your students are going to love, … Read More
Trying, Failing, and Reflecting in the Classroom
TL;DR: The blog recounts Lisa’s experience when a web filter disrupts a classroom activity. Embracing failures when trying new teaching methods sets a good example for students. It delves into the teacher’s approach to handling mistakes, the impact on students, and the necessity of reflecting for continuous improvement. When I Try Something New “Mrs. Jones, it’s blocked!!!” “HEY! I can’t … Read More
Mastering Teaching Essentials for Sustainable Growth
TL;DR: Addressing the challenges faced by educators in a complex landscape. Mastery learning essentials, including feedback proficiency, progress monitoring, and goal setting, support teacher efficiency and student success. Simple principles help teachers and students thrive, preventing teacher burnout. Let’s embark on a journey of empowerment, exploring essential mastery learning elements that not only bolster teacher efficiency but also foster student … Read More
How Self-Aware Are YOU?
TL;DR: Self-reflection leads to self-awareness, a crucial foundation for wisdom and effective leadership. It’s a continuous process that requires intentional practice and time. Methods like journaling, meditation, and nature walks are powerful tools for self-reflection, helping to recognize emotions, strengths, weaknesses, biases, and blind spots. Self-awareness leads to self-efficacy, essential for personal and collective growth. Through mastery and vicarious experiences, … Read More
The Heart of Education: Taking Risks
TL;DR: Taking risks makes teaching more exciting and fulfilling. Start small with change to accomplish more in the long run. Risk-taking is easier for students when we build them a safety net. Failure is natural. Show students it’s okay to fail as long as we try again. Growing up, we’re taught to be careful: to wear helmets and knee pads … Read More