Promoting Student Engagement and Collaboration using Breakouts

Teach Better TeamBlog, Innovation, Lesson Planning, Student Engagement

TL;DR: An introduction the many ways breakouts can be used in your classroom. A “how to” for planning and implementing a breakout in your classroom. As a middle school teacher, I’m always looking for fun new ways to engage my students.  Their current favorite? Breakouts!  Planning a breakout can seem overwhelming, time consuming, and daunting.  I’m here to help walk … Read More

Shame’s Role in Education

Teach Better TeamBlog, Classroom Management, Differentiation, Leadership

TL;DR: The role of shame in education, as told through a specific student case study. A journey through finding what works for kids. Steps to challenge the role of shame in education. “Shame is the intensely painful feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging.”  -Brene Brown This was a tough week for me.  One of my students, we’ll … Read More

Daily Work Checklist for Kids

Teach Better TeamBlog, Classroom Management, Edtech

TL;DR: Managing assignments for online courses. Daily Work Checklist for kids to keep online work organized. My Aha! Moment Most of the ideas I get for blog posts are coming from experiences I’m having with my own children during this remote learning adventure. This latest idea of a daily work checklist is the result of both tears and frustration (from … Read More

Bringing Tough Topics into the Classroom

Teach Better TeamBlog, Innovation, Leadership

TL;DR: Bringing tough topics into the classroom is necessary for our students. Strategies for bringing tough topics in your classroom. I want to start by saying this: I am not the expert on tough topics in the classroom. But I have listened to many experts, those voices who have done the work, and found ways to grow myself. I bring … Read More

Starting Your Own Podcast

Jeff GargasBlog, Edtech, Innovation, Leadership, Teacherpreneur

TL;DR: Starting your own podcast is a great way to share value with others. What you share could be the thing that helps someone else. Come up with a title, format, and cover art. Get your equipment, distribute your show, and promote like crazy! If you don’t already know, let me be the first (although I’m probably the 100th) to … Read More