Kids Can Be Sociolinguists, Too!

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better

TL;DR: A little metalinguistic awareness can go a long way towards creating a safe space for bilingual children in the classroom. Sociolinguistic awareness, coupled with the gumption to tackle these issues with children, will go a long way towards the larger enterprise of designing pedagogy that is culturally (and linguistically) focused. Consider designing curricula that builds sociolinguistic awareness. This post … Read More

Reconsider Your Expectations

Jillian DuBoisBlog, Connect Better, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Believing in students and setting high expectations for them can help them be successful. Find ways to get your students interested. Make sure the lessons and activities you are teaching are relevant. Know what your end goal is and makes sure it is clear to your students, too. Provide opportunities for your students to reflect on their own work. … Read More

I’m Not Perfect

Raymond PortenBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: We have to model what we want to see, and that is that we aren’t perfect.   Leaders should model imperfections and vulnerability to their staff. Mistakes should be seen as learning opportunities or learning experiences. No One Is Perfect In my last blog I talked about “how your people see you” and “being intentional about who you are to … Read More

Let’s Continue to TALK about Equity!

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Teach lessons that encourage a growth mindset. Definitions give us working knowledge to understand more about equity and anti-racism. Be an anti-racist educator! “Equity and Inclusion Just Got Better” Journaling/Reflection Questions What is a lesson idea that involves teaching about a topic that matters to your students? Write down a time you didn’t advocate for change with something that … Read More

Exploring Your Emotions as an Educator

Lindsay TitusBlog, Engage Better, Self Care Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Are you aware of the emotions present within your classroom environment? Educators are taught to focus on action rather than on feeling the emotions below the surface. The core emotions are fear, anger, sadness, shame, jealousy, disgust, happiness, and love. Identify and unpack emotions so you can take care of yourself. Instead of putting “I am” before a feeling … Read More