For all the great educators I've met, including those who are soon to lend their passion and talents to the field. Please share this with an educator you know! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bySSgjbjqqw Huge gratitude to Kevin Romeo, Daniel Juan Martinez and the whole RHINO MEDIA PRODUCTIONS team, as my student volunteers.
Why I have faith in American educators: I see America teaching
Traveling always strengthens and reaffirms my faith in teachers across America. Read on for a reflection I wrote for WeAreTeachers during a recent stint to work with a small village in Alaska. For years I've been teaching. For these same years I've been exposed to conversations about teachers in America. Each day I hear people talk about what … Continue reading Why I have faith in American educators: I see America teaching
Survive your upcoming school year with Staff Meeting BINGO!
It's coming. Soon. Before you know it, we'll be back in school trying to bolster up our mental fortitude for that one reoccurring event that taxes our patience and our joy: The dreaded staff meeting. Soon we'll be jammed into a library or cafeteria, forced to awkwardly create those collegial good vibes and hurrahs. If … Continue reading Survive your upcoming school year with Staff Meeting BINGO!
Don’t Smile ’til Christmas: A Teacher’s Worst Advice
When I first started teaching, I actually gave stock to the garbage of an educational aphorism, “Don't smile until Christmas.” I remember thinking, “I'm young . . . I look even younger. I need to lay down the hammer early so kids don't mess with me.” And there I was, reading the syllabus with a … Continue reading Don’t Smile ’til Christmas: A Teacher’s Worst Advice
An Open Letter to Myself: Don’t Give Up
Twenty-four of my students are failing. Only two are passing. They are failing in the grade book. They are failing in mastering content. They are failing in overcoming the abyss of apathy that is a characteristic of the students I teach. And, because of this, I am failing. I have tried dozens of techniques and … Continue reading An Open Letter to Myself: Don’t Give Up
Staying Present in the Classroom: Practicing Mindful Teaching
How am I going to transition to the next lesson? What's that smell? What am I going to have the kids who finish early do until the bell rings? Do you think any of them actually like this book? I hope our staff meeting doesn't go long; I've got to get home to my puppy … Continue reading Staying Present in the Classroom: Practicing Mindful Teaching
7 Tips for Creating a More Positive Mindset
Want to take a test? Of course you do! It’s the 21st century in education; testing is all the rage. The test is about positive mindset and it’s simple. As you read this article, make a note of every word you read that rhymes with “YELLOW” (Feel free to write them down). Here we go. A teacher … Continue reading 7 Tips for Creating a More Positive Mindset
Three Questions Worth Asking
The following is adapted from a 2014 National Honor Society induction speech I was asked to give to the students of Plainwell High School. Read on 'til the end for a personal challenge. -------------------------------------- There’s a saying in education: “There’s no such thing as a stupid question.” Have you heard this before? I think … Continue reading Three Questions Worth Asking
Dear Kill-Joy, Take a Breather.
Glance around your classroom, or house, or job. If you work with groups of kids, chances are you'll notice some things. - You will notice one kid picking his nose. Hard. If he's older, he may be trying to hide it. Under 10 years old and he is proudly showcasing his gold. Regardless, no nose … Continue reading Dear Kill-Joy, Take a Breather.
Why I can’t wait to fail
Why I can't wait to fail: One man sets out to risk a reputation.
