Parents have rights. In their efforts to promote charter schools, some education reform activists couch their advocacy in language describing “choice,” parent rights and even sometimes suggest that traditional schools and teachers pose a danger to students while going virtually unaccountable. This skewed and theatrical view of reality may be a reason many parents have […]
How to Fix Education
Posted inHow to Fix Education
Teaching Class (With Class)
In the past, we’ve explored the “10 Ways to Fix Education” mini-series. We’re resurrecting this topic, and one way I’d like to fix education is teaching class (with class). This homophone highlights two items that should be at the forefront of our working memory and, well, our work. The first association – class, a noun […]
Posted inHow to Fix Education
[Podcast Season 2: Episode 2] : So, What’s Exactly The Genius Hour?
Introduction Welcome to Episode 2 Season two of The Educator’s Room podcast! In this episode, Franchesca interviews, Jennifer White from Teaching Teens in the 21st Century, blogger, English/Language Arts teacher, and Genius Hour expert! Engaging students during school is a hot topic in all schools, regardless of the school’s community or socioeconomic background. Within the last couple […]
Posted inFrom the Front Lines
40+ Tips for New Teachers – From Veteran Teachers (Uncensored)
As a new teacher, you try your hardest to learn all of the new procedures and cultural norms of your school, but many times it can be hard but what if all of the veteran teachers poured their knowledge into you? Well, we’ve compiled the best advice from veteran teachers and here you go. Don’t […]
Posted inHow to Fix Education
To Confront or To Not Confront? Preparing for a Difficult Conversation with a Co-teacher
“That’s not what we usually do.” “Well, if it was me, I’d…” “In so-and-so’s class, we’re…” “I think of it this way…” “You’re a young teacher…” Some of these conversation starters can lead to effective dialogues and lesson enhancements. However, when your co-teacher is saying these things out loud during class in front of twenty […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
To Test or not to Test: That is the Question
Picture this, lush green fields and ancient ruins of magnificent structures gazing over the tops of houses on the lanes. This is my view on the train from York to London. My family is from Yorkshire and I had the delight of spending time with them during my brief stop. However, I’m left contemplating a pressing […]
Posted inHow to Fix Education
Know Your Teacher Worth
I have an absolutely amazing older son. When my ex-husband left, Eli was there to help pick up the pieces. When I had my emotional collapse, again Eli came to the hospital everyday and even now continues to keep a close eye on me. He and I are never far from one another, with healthy […]