A few years ago, Alex, a veteran teacher, asked me to watch one of her lessons and provide some coaching on integrating Common Core Standards. She focused mainly on the content she was covering and not on her students’ engagement. Alex clearly loved her students. I could tell because of the time she put into the…
On the Lookout for B.A.T.s
Grit. Wisdom. Grace. Teachers inspire me every day with their love, hard work, and passion. Over the years as a mentor teacher and instructional coach, I’ve discovered some extraordinary teachers. But now that I’m back in the classroom, I am even more impressed by a new breed in our field: the Badass Teacher. Have you…
Top 5 Ways to Use Top 5s
Do you ever wonder whether your children are more inspired and creative than you are? A few months ago my ten-year old son invented an activity we began to call “Top 5’s”. First, you choose a subject, like “best memories” or “favorite movies” or “coolest superheroes.” Everyone playing the game takes a few minutes to…
Top 5 TRUE Teacher Hacks
Aren’t you just intrigued with idea of finding an amazing teacher hack? I am! But, if you’re like every teacher I know, you don’t have the time to read about time-saving strategies. I get it: both the reality and the irony. I decided to research some specific teacher hacks, proven by the test of time….