Spark Your Passion This Summer!

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better

TL;DR: In order to come back in September feeling excited and happy to return, we need to take time off. There are 10 ways we can spark our passion in the summer: make time for yourself, rethink curriculum, do some planning, learn, be yourself, revisit your why, know you are human, lead and mentor others, build excitement, and maintain trusting … Read More

Shooting for the Moon

Kelly PascarellaBlog, Connect Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Growth is found in risk. With each lesson, educators shoot for the moon. Educators have so many responsibilities on a day-to-day basis. Sharing resources with other educators can help you reach the moon daily. We’ve often heard the phrase, “shoot for the moon, if you miss you’ll land among the stars.” But what exactly does that mean when applied … Read More

Climb Higher: It’s Not All Low-Hanging Fruit

Steven WeberBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: There are benefits to reaching for the low-hanging fruit: small wins, buy-in, momentum, easier to check off the list, requires fewer meetings and communication, and there is less risk involved. We cannot afford to pick low-hanging fruit for a prolonged time. It’s the second semester and summer break will be here before we know it. Teacher teams and school … Read More

Engage Until the End: Reflecting on the End of the Year

Bobbie FrenchBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better

TL;DR: Reflect by creating a visual timeline, class memory book, or slideshow. Culminating projects to show what students learned during the year include a book sales pitch with their favorite books showcased, summer or year-end BINGO cards, or a game of Family Feud. Proper closure to the year is important. Some ideas include writing a letter to their next year’s … Read More

5 Scandals in Education

Steven WeberBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Scandals exist in schools. Teachers and administrators must analyze their schools to see if they exist or have the potential to develop. There are 5 scandals in education: low expectations, lack of instructional leadership, culture does not emphasize formative assessment, curriculum alignment is left to chance, and students are not required to think. Throughout history, scandals have been documented. … Read More