Advice for New Educators

Susan JonesBlog, Connect Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: This post welcomes new teachers, emphasizing the importance of support and quality education. It addresses frustrations with discouragement towards the teaching profession and aims to foster a supportive environment for new educators. Tips on work-life balance, seeking financial support, networking with peers, embracing mistakes, prioritizing student relationships, and ongoing professional development are shared. New Educators I am so happy … Read More

The Power of a Collaborative Approach

Stephanie JeretBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: This blog post emphasizes the significance of collaboration in speech therapy success, highlighting the importance of teamwork among speech therapists, students, families, and other professionals. By integrating the unique skills and insights of each team member, a collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of speech therapy. Families and caregivers play a crucial role in providing support beyond school hours. Involving … Read More

Why Schools Need Trauma-Informed In-School Suspension

Johnathan CranfordBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Traditional in-school suspension (ISS) remains ineffective, sharing negative outcomes with out-of-school suspension. It also correlates with a greater than 25% chance of standardized test failure. Trauma-Informed In-School Suspension (ISS) is proposed as a more successful alternative, emphasizing four pillars: safety, transparency, collaboration, and empowerment. This approach, seen in rare “unicorn” ISS programs, offers structured consequences while providing academic and … Read More

Legacy of Equality and Justice

Suzanne RogersBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: This post emphasizes the importance of honoring Martin Luther King Jr. beyond just the designated holiday, stressing the need to recognize his legacy of equality and justice all year long. Educate and inspire students about the values of justice, equality, and peaceful activism. Age-appropriate resources for teachers to introduce and delve deeper into Dr. King’s life, accomplishments, and the … Read More

Using the Grid Method to Teach Real-World Skills

Lisa JonesBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: The author’s favorite unit focuses on imparting practical job skills in an Exploring Careers course, acknowledging the universal need for employment preparation. Using the Grid Method, the unit progresses through levels, starting with basics, incorporating real-life examples in level two, and culminating in assessments and simulations at level three. Emphasizing the importance of real-world connections, the author encourages educators … Read More