TL;DR: Using Google Sheets to log reading can promote reading engagement. Shifting our former practices can help us inspire lifelong readers. This post includes a link to an online interactive reading log. The use of technology is growing substantially in our society, thus in our classrooms. I definitely see the value of doing some things the “old-fashioned” way, without the … Read More
Grading in the New Normal
TL;DR: Maintaining student motivation and accountability in a gradeless classroom. Using grades to communicate and provide feedback. Grading practices that promote a passion for learning, a willingness to take risks, and an increased investment in progress. Education has undergone monumental shifts over the past few months. Whether you are in the classroom, in a leadership role, a district office, or … Read More
Instruction in the New Normal
TL;DR: To prepare for any scenario, materials, lessons, and activities should be accessible to students anywhere and anytime. Teachers should create non-time dependent instructional plans that flow from one learning environment to another. Utilizing mastery and standards based grading to focus on targeted objectives provide a pathway to success. Things Are Different Now. No matter how you look at education … Read More
Culture in the New Normal
TL;DR: Using your Professional Learning Network (PLN) to inspire positive culture in your classroom. Reimagining your PLN through positivity, authenticity, and modeling appropriate norms. Using the tools, skills, and ideas established with your PLN to maintain valuable relationships with your students. “Learning is finding out what you already know” – Richard Bach. With our new normal quickly approaching this fall, … Read More
SEL in the New Normal
TL;DR: Planning for social emotional learning in the new normal. Strategies to prioritize SEL and the whole child, including being flexible, focusing on social issues and changes, checking in with others and meeting them with empathy, and ensuring that we are taking time to understand where students are at in their learning. “New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings” … Read More