Special Education Support in a Grid Classroom

Meghan PahlkeBlog, Differentiate Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Mastery Done Better, Reflect Better

TL:DR: The Grid Method can be effective with all students, including those with IEPs. When building a Grid, be proactive in making accommodations ahead of time. Both the general education teacher and the special education teacher have an equal role in the classroom. At the beginning of the 2019-2020 school year, my general education co-teacher and I were ready to … Read More

Embrace Differences in Teaching Styles

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Different teaching styles work for both teachers and students. Spiraling concepts helps students build knowledge. Take time for students to build relationships. Check in with parents for additional feedback. Embracing Differences in Teaching Styles I recently got the opportunity to reflect as a mentor in a guest panel at the Mentoree Podcast through Voice Ed Canada. Authentic questions were … Read More

3 Myths that Keep Us From Talking About Racial and Gender Justice in Schools 

Lindsay LyonsBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Consider the 3 myths that keep us from talking about racial and gender justice in schools. It is important for all students to discuss racial and gender justice by acknowledging the impact and by taking action. There are opportunities to talk about racial and gender justice in younger grades and in various subject areas beyond Social Studies and Ethnic … Read More

Bring in the New Year With More Curiosity and Less Judgment

Alyssa JonesBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Being curious rather than judgmental leads to better understanding and compassion toward others. Shifting your mindset and helping others can create a positive safe space for all. Bring in the New Year With More Curiosity and Less Judgment  Most people have heard of the hit TV series, Ted Lasso, in which an American football coach is exported to the … Read More

Reconnect Happier

Suzanne DaileyBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: We can try many things to reach our struggling students, but have you tried asking them what they need? Provide students with an opportunity to give you feedback, like a Teacher Report Card, so you can better respond to their needs. Being open to receiving feedback and making changes in response leads to improved connection and belonging. Reconnect Happier … Read More