Introduction Welcome to Episode 27 Season one of The Educator’s Room podcast! In this episode, Franchesca interviews, John Thomas, teacher, musician, and self-proponent rebel. This year we are going around the world to talk to educators who are doing awesome things- just like you. Starting the school year is always tough when we’re in a political climate where […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
Colin Kaepernick: Education vs Indoctrination
I am surprised at the attention Colin Kaepernick sitting for the National Anthem is getting, but it prompted some reflection: How should I react if a student refuses to say the pledge, stand for the anthem, place his /her hand-over-heart…or participate in any one of the rituals that are supposed to indicate unwavering patriotism and love of […]
Posted inPodcast
[Podcast S2E5] Five Affirmations That Every Teacher Needs
Introduction Welcome to Episode 5 Season two of The Educator’s Room podcast! In this episode, Franchesca discusses the five affirmations every teacher should say to get the most of the school year. It’s the beginning of the school year and in between the new class lists and Open House dates, there are those fleeting moments when you feel […]
Posted inTeacher Leaders
Encouraging Conversation About Teen Suicide
We’re just a few weeks into the new school year, and already communities are mourning the tragic deaths of students by suicide. From the public outcry of Daniel Fitzpatrick’s parents to the private grief of classmates, teen suicide plagues the school community. How do we talk to our students about the devastating realities of depression […]
Posted inBack to School, Opinion
Why You Should Take a Sick Day
I had a great mentor teacher in my first year teaching. We shared the same room, and as someone who had zero experience in student teaching, I really needed the guidance. One of the most important things she taught me that year was that I should stay home when I am sick. Taking a sick […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
36 Weeks of Technology: GoNoodle
In this series, #36weeksoftech, I will review tech tools in my classroom. I will give you my honest opinion and some pros and cons through the eyes of an experienced teacher. This is my 21st year in the classroom, and I teach all subject areas. Using technology can be a way to increase engagement and […]
Posted inBack to School
10 Terrific Team-Building Activities for Secondary Students
Once students reach Middle School and beyond, teachers often believe that students must know each other already. As a result, team-building often gets skipped. Last year, I realized that some of my students didn’t know each other after all. This moment came two-thirds of the way through the year, when I asked a student to get “Charlie” […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
Why I Like to Start the Year with a Poetry Unit
Figuring out how to begin the school year can be intimidating. You’ll be setting the tone for the rest of the year, and you will never quite get the same amount of energy or hard work from your students as you do while the year is still fresh. (Ever notice that every single kid does […]