Be Your Students’ Champion

Colissa JordanBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: To empower students, teachers should be their champions, knowing them as individuals and fostering a positive classroom culture through positive reinforcement and tailored instruction. Autonomy, a growth mindset, and purposeful learning are key in motivating and inspiring students, with teachers playing a crucial role in believing in their students’ potential. Success in education relies on factors like teacher support, … Read More

We’re Gonna Keep On Talking Reflections

Lindsay LyonsBlog, Engage Better, Lead Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Matthew R. Kay and Jennifer Orr’s book, “We’re Gonna Keep on Talking,” focuses on leading meaningful race conversations in elementary classrooms. This post emphasizes the importance of fostering important mindsets like understanding that race discussions are ongoing and cannot be a one-time conversation. The book also highlights co-creating discussions with students, building their discussion skills, providing effective prompts for … Read More

Overcoming Setbacks

Suzanne RogersBlog, Lead Better, Manage Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Clear Vision: A strategic plan acts as a roadmap to success, providing clarity on goals and purpose. It helps maintain focus during setbacks, ensuring you don’t lose sight of your ultimate destination. Learning from Setbacks: Setbacks are valuable learning opportunities. Embrace them, reflect on what went wrong, and use these experiences to improve your strategies for continuous growth. Building … Read More

Celebrating Diversity for an Inclusive Learning Environment

Colissa JordanBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: The post emphasizes the importance of advocating for culturally responsive teaching practices in education, highlighting its role in creating inclusive learning environments. Specific strategies for advocating with building administrators, parents, and the community, are shared. This post emphasizes the need to explain the importance of these practices, involve parents in curriculum planning, and engage the community to support diversity … Read More

WOOP It Up This Year!

Suzanne DaileyBlog, Manage Better, Reflect Better, Self Care Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: The post discusses the WOOP goal-setting strategy as a way to transition from a summer state of rest and relaxation to a productive school year. WOOP stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan. It’s designed to help individuals set and achieve challenging yet feasible goals. The author’s personal example involves planning deliberate rest during the school year to maintain … Read More