We’ve all heard the phrase “students thrive in structure.” And it’s true—clear expectations, routines, and organization create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. But the reality is, structure alone isn’t enough. As one of my colleagues recently said, “We definitely need structure, but we also need color.” That statement stuck…
Read moreDEI is Not a Bad Word: A Classroom Perspective
In recent weeks, the term DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) has been at the center of political debates, funding threats, and strong opinions from all sides. But let’s take a step back and look at this concept purely from an educator’s perspective—without the politics, without the noise, and with only one goal in mind: student…
Read moreHarnessing AI to Enhance Teaching: A Practical Guide for Educators
The role of educators is evolving as technology continues to advance. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s revolutionizing the way teachers plan, instruct, assess, and engage with students. With the right AI tools, teachers can save time, personalize learning, and enhance student outcomes without feeling overwhelmed. This blog…
Read moreUnique Strategies for Landing Your Dream Teaching Job
Attending a teacher recruitment fair is an exciting opportunity to connect with school districts and showcase your strengths as an educator. However, with hundreds of candidates in the room, how do you stand out from the crowd? Here are six specific, unique, and practical strategies that will help you make a lasting impression and increase…
Read moreHow to Make Your District Shine at Recruitment Fairs
As spring approaches, many school districts are gearing up for teacher recruitment fairs, aiming to secure top-tier educators for the upcoming school year. However, with multiple districts competing for the same candidates, the question becomes: What sets your district apart? Teachers today are looking beyond salary; they want supportive leadership, professional growth, a strong school…
Read moreChallenges and Benefits of Mastery-Based Learning Explained
A few years ago, I sat across from a bright, eager third grader who struggled with multiplication. His teacher had moved on to division, but he was still stuck, trying to memorize facts without really understanding them. It wasn’t a lack of effort—he just needed more time. But the pace of a traditional classroom didn’t…
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5 Ways to Reflect and Recharge This Holiday Season
As 2024 ends, the Christmas holidays invite reflection and renewal. Over two decades in education reveal that true rest comes from connecting with loved ones, community, and faith. Embrace kindness, spend quality time, reconnect spiritually, find stillness, and set meaningful intentions for the new year to recharge and cherish what matters.
Read moreSupporting Overwhelmed Principals: A Guide for District Leaders
Over the last week, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with principals to review their budgets and progress toward their goals. While these conversations have been productive, they have also highlighted a critical concern: our principals are overwhelmed. Just like teachers, principals are experiencing increasing workloads and responsibilities. On top of managing their schools, they…
Read moreFostering a Positive Classroom Culture During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a magical time for students, but it can also be a challenging period for maintaining focus and ensuring inclusivity. As educators, we have the opportunity to create a joyful, supportive, and engaging classroom environment while staying mindful of the diverse needs of our students. Here are some tips to foster a…
Read moreJust Another Manic Monday: Surviving the Stretch Between Thanksgiving and Christmas
As the holiday season approaches, this time of year can feel like a whirlwind for educators. Between wrapping up lessons, navigating holiday events, and managing students’ boundless energy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But remember, you’re not alone in this! Here are a few quick tips to help you stay grounded: You’ve got this! Remember,…
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