More Than Good Intentions

Wherever you are, I hope you're beginning to exhale a bit — not just from the school year, but from the push to always be "on."

More Than Good Intentions
Photo by Frames For Your Heart / Unsplash

More Than Good Intentions

As June begins, the pace shifts. Maybe you're closing out your classroom, maybe you're already savoring slower mornings. Wherever you are, I hope you're beginning to exhale a bit — not just from the school year, but from the push to always be "on."

Summer can be a soft place to land, and a powerful time to reset.

Have a great weekend. Here’s this week’s Why Edify newsletter.


Article Spotlight

How is the discipline system work at your school? This past week I listened to great podcast from the Cult of Pedagogy on this topic.

“Rethinking School Discipline: Why Restorative Practices Need More Than Good Intentions”

Restorative justice is often misunderstood — seen as removing consequences instead of repairing harm. This week’s featured article explores how many schools struggle to implement restorative practices effectively, leaving teachers unsupported and students confused. Drawing insights from Episode 252 of the Cult of Pedagogy podcast, it unpacks why blending restorative justice with systems like PBIS can create tension, and what educators can do to build stronger, more consistent, community-centered discipline.

Read the article →


Happier

Practice the Pause

You made it. Before jumping into summer plans or projects, give yourself permission to pause. Even if just for a day or two. Breathe. Notice. Reflect. There's power in acknowledging what you've just carried — and giving yourself a moment to simply be without fixing or doing.

Pausing gives your nervous system a break from constant stimulation and decision-making. It helps restore your capacity for joy and awareness — and reconnects you with your “why.”


Healthier

Reset with a Daily Walk

A simple, grounding habit to consider this summer: a daily walk. No pressure, no pace goals — just moving your body through space, ideally outside. Let your mind wander. Let the rhythm recalibrate your nervous system.

Gentle movement reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels, supports mental clarity, and helps regulate your emotions. It’s one of the most accessible and restorative forms of physical self-care.


Stronger

What Did You Learn This Year?

Before the school year fully fades, take 10 minutes to jot down: What did I learn about my students? My practice? Myself? These notes don’t have to be polished — they’re seeds. When August comes, they’ll help you remember not just what you taught, but how you grew.

Reflection deepens learning and creates meaning. This simple exercise turns your year’s experiences into personal growth fuel, making you a wiser, more intentional educator.


🎵 Teacher Commuter Playlist - “Brighter Days” by Blessing Offor


Thanks for showing up — for your students, and now, for yourself. Small, mindful steps today can lead to big shifts tomorrow. You deserve that.

With gratitude,

Jeremy