Featuring guest writer Chris Horne Typical schools spend thousands of dollars each year on professional development. This could involve bringing in guest speakers to facilitate workshops or doing internal data reviews, but each school’s PD plan looks a little bit different. In all cases, these plans tend to have a focused goal: To help teachers […]
Posted inMiddle School
An Experiment In Gratitude
I had the most positive student teaching experience I could have ever imagined. I was mentored by phenomenal, passionate, effective, caring educators who graciously answered my questions and modeled by their example what it meant to do what’s in the best interest of students as not just learners of academics but learners of life. I […]
Posted inAsk a Teacher
Your Students and Video Games: Adult Supervision Required
It’s important for students to be well-rested and prepared for each day of learning, but video games and excessive screen time can make getting that rest a challenge. It’s hard to avoid screen time these days. Cell phones and computers are ever more present in our daily routines. Some restaurants even take your order on […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
The Only One: The Two Percent Issue in Education
I grew up abroad. In elementary school, I was often the only Black male in my class. Even though there were probably racist conversations had around me, I was oblivious. I was aware I was different from most in my class, but my family instilled pride and confidence in me at a young age. However, […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
But You’re Such A Strong Teacher
“But You’re Such A Strong Teacher” “But you’re such a strong teacher. I hate this phrase. As a new teacher, it took me a while to understand what this phrase meant. At first, I believed it to be a compliment. I thought it meant I was doing a good job in my classroom and with […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
It’s time to talk about the culture of fear around standardized testing
The temperatures are warming. The skies are bright. The birds are chirping. Spring fever is in full effect, and everyone is awaiting summertime! Unfortunately for educators and students, there is a huge hump to get over…standardized testing. End of the year assessments are looming over us. It seems like the entire school year comes down […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
The Life of a Theatre Teacher: Twelve Jobs in One
This year, I started locking my door during my plan period. The stress and exhaustion of being a theatre teacher are starting to get to me more than before. I have four preps, teach a variance, and direct the shows after school. I need that time to be quiet. I don’t refuse to open the […]
Posted inCurrent Events in Education
For the love of God, let the students sleep…start school later!
There are many aspects adults can agree on about teenagers. The most crucial acknowledgment is that they are a tired group. The research, the data, and the science all confirm that sleep matters. Bottom line: we need to start schools later — no earlier than 8:30 am. The AMA, AAP, and the CDC agree with the benefits of […]