TL;DR: We all want to start the year with the notion that it will be the best year yet. Learn four ways on how to get to know your students better. Have students work on a mind map with activities they did, family members, and places that were important to them. Then have them present not their own, but their … Read More
Me in a Bag
TL;DR: A great first week of school activity is “Me in a Bag.” Encourage students to use their creativity when placing items that must fit in the bag. Start by setting the example and have your own bag prepared. Present your items explaining the reason for each. Be flexible with the number of items in the bag and show genuine … Read More
4 Ways to Cultivate School Spirit and Culture
TL;DR: Here are four ways to establish positive traditions and communication to cultivate culture. (1) Decorate your room and school with school colors so students identify as being a part of the community. (2) Explicitly teach school traditions like learning the Alma Mater words. (3) Celebrate students by creating a “Wall of Fame,” which is a collection of student pictures … Read More
Remember Love This School Year
TL;DR: Sometimes we struggle and need to put in greater effort in order to feel aligned, content, and balanced. Happiness is a discipline. We may be feeling nervous about returning to school, but remember love this school year. People remember us for the way we love. So as we begin a new school year, we can love our students, colleagues, … Read More
The Gift of Care
TL;DR: The practice of choosing One Word can be more effective than making New Year’s resolutions. One student chose the word CARE and he demonstrated it every day. Begin to see kind and caring gestures for you as gifts of care because it deepens your gratitude and relationships. Give the gift of care for others by not only thinking of … Read More