Let’s face it. Our society remains divided over ongoing issues of racial justice, a divisive presidential election, and tragic incidents of violence. As a result, teachers are rightly concerned about their classroom climate and culture. What’s heard in the news, homes, and our communities translates into the classroom. Our schools should be spaces where students […]
In our society today, it’s hard to watch the news or look at social media without experiencing controversy and divisiveness. I remember, in high school and college, I was always quick to offer my opinions and judgments of people who didn’t share my same views. As I began my teaching career, I learned how to […]
Imagine someone approaches and offers you a bracelet that says, “I Make a Difference What would you say? How would you feel? That is what a Vicki Simmons, a teacher at Hayne’s Inman-Education Center in North Carolina, did for me. She helped me realize by this simple gesture how I made a positive difference […]
It’s the first week of school. You are anxious to meet new students and spend the first days explaining rules, procedures and expectations. You devote time to reinforce, model, practice, and discuss your class rules and behaviors to establish a positive classroom culture. If you’re like me, you will give a test on Friday […]
August is when teachers everywhere begin to think about lesson ideas for those first days of school. We plan our rules, procedures, and first assignments. SURPRISE… this year I have planned your first assignment for you with few rules or restrictions! This first assignment allows students to be creative. There is no rubric or specific […]
Are you a bird watcher? Do you ever take the time to watch birds and what they eat and how they take care of each other? Have you ever seen a group of vultures swarming over a road or field? Vultures prey on dead things and have a very keen sight. They can spot dead […]
