Reflecting at the End of the Year

Kristen KoppersBlog, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Teaching from home has been challenging to not be able to “see” our students. There were frustrations from the perspectives of a teacher, student, and parent in the past 180 days. It is important to reflect on the past year and a half: in-class instruction cannot be replaced by virtual, students preferred to be in class, students had diverse … Read More

EP69: Screens On or Screens Off?

The Staff Room PodcastBlog

In Episode 69 of The Staffroom Podcast, Chey and Pav talk about their experiences with virtual teaching – especially the issue of cameras being on for students. With their new “twirl” back to teaching students remotely, they, as middle school teachers, have had similar experiences with their students not wanting to turn on their cameras on for the class. The … Read More

How to Handle Distance Learning’s “Ghost” Students

Megan BaldufBlog, Student Engagement

TL;DR: We must acknowledge the concerns about student engagement and attendance that may occur during remote learning. We don’t know everyone’s situation so we must offer grace. According to a meta-analysis of psychiatric research, social isolation and loneliness during the pandemic negatively affect children’s levels of anxiety and depression. Listed below are ways to reach out to students. Use any … Read More

Whichever Way You Cut It

Noor AliBlog, Classroom Management

TL;DR: There are many struggles with both in-person and remote learning during this time. Whichever way you cut it, there is no perfect solution given the circumstances. This year is not about replicating the norm. It is not about holding yourself to the same expectations you have of yourself in any other year. You have shown up for the future, … Read More