TL;DR: Debunking a common argument against retaking assessments. Reasons why retakes promote mastery of content. Seriously, You should Allow Retakes. I know as you read this title you may have rolled your eyes a bit. Maybe you had some thought of “In the real world they don’t allow retakes…“. I’d love to take that thought to it’s natural conclusion actually. … Read More
Management with the Grid: How to Keep Kids Motivated
TL;DR: The Grid method can seem like a huge change, but there are some consistencies with a traditional approach. A teacher shares some strategies for management and engagement with the Grid. “How do you keep kids motivated?!” This question pops up over and over again for educators. It does not matter whether you teach elementary or high school, or if … Read More
The Power of Saying “No”
TL;DR: Learning to say “No” as a self-care strategy Engaging in positive communication with others The COVID-19 pandemic has tested us all. From students, to teachers, to administrators, to district leaders and families, we’ve all faced challenges we never thought we would see. As educators, it’s our nature to always put the needs of others first. It’s why we got … Read More
Allow Cell Phones?!
TL;DR: The value we place on cell phones. Three steps toward allowing cell phones in your classroom… responsibly. I got my first cell phone in 1996 when I was in college. It looked like a brick– huge! You could only call programmed numbers from it, and I think I only had 3 numbers I could actually dial. After that, I … Read More
Growing Your PLN Through Podcasting
In This Post: The benefits of having a wide Professional Learning Network, or PLN. Ways podcasts can help build your PLN as a listener, guest, or host! In my work with teachers across the country, something that constantly comes up is how to effectively grow your “PLN” or “Professional Learning Network”. More than ever this has become a staple in … Read More