While standards and accountability frameworks offer a roadmap for educational attainment, they can also pose challenges when applied rigidly. The one-size-fits-all approach may overlook the diverse needs and circumstances of…
Category: Inspiration
Inspiration #117: Rethinking Tools. Changing Perspectives.
Last weekend, I went to HomeGoods to get some Joffrey’s coffee to brew at home. The smell and taste always remind me of being at Disney. As I was standing…
Inspiration #116: D.O.C. – Designing Our Classroom
Transforming your classroom into an effective learning space involves thoughtful planning and ongoing collaboration. By considering purpose, incorporating design elements, organizing materials efficiently, and involving students in the process, you can create an environment that promotes engagement, collaboration, and a love for learning.
Inspiration #115: A Teacher’s Life
As a teacher, starting a new semester can be both exciting and daunting. You may have a new group of students to get to know or a new course to…
Inspiration #114: Finding the Positive
This list is not exhaustive but are just some ways to think about finding ways to put more energy into being positive versus focusing only on the negative.
Inspiration #113: The Art of Unplugging – A Guide to a Restful Winter Break
1. Communicate Expectations:
One of the key challenges in disconnecting is managing the expectations of others. Communicate openly with colleagues, superiors, and even students about your break plans. Setting clear expectations for limited availability helps manage others’ expectations and reduces the likelihood of last-minute demands.
Inspiration #112: Creating and Advocating Paths to Leadership
As educators, we have the opportunity and responsibility to create our own path and advocate for our growth in leadership. Leadership is not a fixed position or a title, but…
Inspiration # 111: Saying You’re Welcome
When someone thanks us for something we did or said, we often reply with “you’re welcome” or a similar expression. But do we really mean it? Do we really welcome their gratitude, or do we just say it out of habit or politeness? Acknowledging someone’s gratitude with welcome is a good thing for us, because it shows that we value their appreciation and that we are happy to help them. It also reinforces our positive self-image and boosts our confidence.
Inspiration #110: Deals in Teaching and Learning
If you live in the United States, it is hard to not know tis’ the shopping season. Bring some of what students recognize into the classroom for some fun and creative ways to learn. I promise that no matter how you do that, you will get “buy-in”.
Inspiration #109: Dear Educators
Dear Educators, I see you amidst the hustle and bustle of the classroom, the stacks of papers, the support to students and families through endless phone calls and email. There…