TL;DR: In order to come back in September feeling excited and happy to return, we need to take time off. There are 10 ways we can spark our passion in the summer: make time for yourself, rethink curriculum, do some planning, learn, be yourself, revisit your why, know you are human, lead and mentor others, build excitement, and maintain trusting … Read More
Summer Self-Care
TL;DR: After an unprecedented year, the time for self-care is now here! Though it may be difficult, don’t let summer determine how and when we have time for self-care. Summer Self-Care May 29, 2021 marked the end of my twentieth year in education. I first started in education as a substitute teacher, then became a part-time teacher, and then went … Read More
Ah, the Cool of June
TL;DR: The cool of June provides time to plan ahead for the fall. As you plan, think about the needs of your staff. Considering what your staff needs will help to get school started off on the right foot. In the fall, staff members need to ease back into the routine. They need to reacquaint with their team members and … Read More
Summer S.E.E.D.S.
TL;DR: Teachers are in need of a summer break. While we are good at relaxing, we may not be as good at recharging. We can recharge if we commit to follow five steps for self-care: sleep, exercise, efficacy (intentionally build capacity), diet, and social connectedness. I have heard more teachers utter this phrase in the past month than I can … Read More
Engage Until the End: Reflecting on the End of the Year
TL;DR: Reflect by creating a visual timeline, class memory book, or slideshow. Culminating projects to show what students learned during the year include a book sales pitch with their favorite books showcased, summer or year-end BINGO cards, or a game of Family Feud. Proper closure to the year is important. Some ideas include writing a letter to their next year’s … Read More