21 Questions for the End of the School Year

Steven WeberBlog, Reflect Better

TL;DR: The final weeks of the school year are filled with a range of emotions as students and staff say goodbye and reflect on their growth together. Reflecting on the instructional design, learning culture, academic interventions, relationships, equity, professional growth, and self-care can support personal and professional development. The importance of asking the right questions, embracing uncertainty, and celebrating the … Read More

Supporting Today’s Learners

Colissa JordanBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: There is a comparison between cooking appliances and education methods, contrasting microwave learning (traditional) with air fryer learning (constructivist). In traditional learning, teachers are the main source of knowledge and focus on student compliance, while constructivist learning emphasizes student engagement, collaboration, and connecting learning to real-life experiences. Teachers in today’s classrooms are encouraged to be guides and mentors, creating … Read More

Centering Culture in Learning

Becky SchnekserBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Centering culture in learning experiences is important and should be a priority for all educators. The book “Unpack Your Impact” by Naomi O’Brien and LaNesha Tabb is a great resource for learning and implementing cultural inclusion in the classroom. Centering culture goes beyond surface-level activities and should be seamlessly integrated into practices. Culture is an integral part of identity … Read More

Kids Do Better When They Are Excited to Learn

Bobbie FrenchBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better

TL;DR: Creating a culture of excitement leads to a positive learning environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. Excitement is contagious. Learn 7 ways to create an enthusiastic environment and 7 ways to create an enthusiastic lesson. Spend time laughing with your students; it is essential to creating a warm and positive classroom culture where students feel comfortable and … 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