Why retention requires a new, more accurate view of teaching A common misconception about teaching is that teachers work from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and only for nine months out of the year. The idea that teachers have an “easy” schedule likely comes from the visible... read more →
Jul
15
Jul
01
Teaching isn't just a job; it's a journey of discovery, adaptation, and growth. Throughout my years in the classroom, I've learned that the key to empowering students lies in choosing teaching methods with intentionality and flexibility. The choice of teaching method can significantly impact students' engagement, comprehension, and overall learning... read more →
May
08
We know from educational researchers like John Hattie and Robert Marzano that collective teacher efficacy (CTE) is one of the most important factors in impacting student success. In other words, the more teachers in a school believe they have the competence and confidence to do their jobs as educators well,... read more →
Apr
15
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of teaching and learning post-pandemic, it's essential to acknowledge that our journey forward is markedly different from pre-2020. With shifting societal norms, heightened parent expectations, and increased teacher burnout, the challenges we face are significant. The lingering effects of interrupted learning, particularly in primary... read more →
Apr
01
In my 25 years in public education, one of the most misunderstood yet key components of student success is the use of direct instruction in the classroom. It is misunderstood because it is often used incorrectly and misinterpreted as rigid, lecture-style instruction. Yet, when implemented correctly, it is especially effective... read more →
Feb
29
Keys to making instructional differentiation natural and easy In my role as an instructional coach and reading specialist, I have heard teachers discuss how they differentiated their assignments or assessments. As an adjunct teacher at various colleges, I’ve seen lesson templates for novice educators that include space where preservice teachers... read more →
Feb
01
Reflection is one of the strategies I implemented this year for my students. I wanted students (and myself) to reflect on all areas of life, from academic to personal. In addition, I wanted reflection to become second nature so that as my students reflected on their actions, thinking, and processes,... read more →
Jan
02
If I could go back in time and give my new teacher self one piece of advice, it would be to simplify. Trust me when I say that I used to overcomplicate everything as a teacher, including my classroom management systems. I thought that I was doing myself and my... read more →
Dec
01
Much has been written about goal setting as it relates to scholastic achievement, and nobody understands the importance of students setting academic goals better than their educators. John Hattie’s research shows us that when students set goals for their learning, learning increases (Hattie, 2019); it is the same for teachers.... read more →
Nov
01
For some, the title of this article represents three words you can't wait to hear from your significant other; for others, these three words cause fear and anxiety. But for those of us who teach, these words represent the fruit of a healthy teacher-student relationship and the difference between a... read more →