Bad News, School System Success, and Compassion

Topics for this week include teacher sustainability, making a lasting impact, and slowing down.

The Grade Debate and Decision Fatigue

Topics for this week include grading systems, preparing for state testing, and overcoming decision fatigue.

Embrace a Little Chaos and Lean Into Fun

Sometimes it's best to just lean into fun.

Three Things: Friendships, Over Planning, and Worry

Three Things is a record of thoughts, questions, inspiration, gratitude, and things that made my day better or made me better. Once written, I send them out into the world. Cue serendipity.

Thank You

Today, I want to thank you, a valued subscriber of the TGIF Teacher newsletter. Whether you are a teacher, a principal, a parent, or someone who simply cares deeply about education, your dedication to making a difference in the lives of students is truly commendable. Your commitment to understanding and

Thanksgiving: Teaching Ideas and Resources for a Memorable Pre-Break Experience

Here are some Thanksgiving teaching ideas and resources that can enhance the quality of the last few days for both teachers and students.

Decision Fatigue: How Can Teachers Cope with Overwhelming Choices and Maintain Effective Decision-Making Abilities

Teachers are highly susceptible to decision fatigue due to the high volume of daily decisions they make. This might explain why I feel like I need to spend time in a sensory deprivation tank at the end of a school week.

Reading for Fun and Relevant Science

Topics for this week include reading for pleasure, making science relevant, and the beauty of brain breaks.

You’re Awesome - Thank You For Your Support

Since the inception of the TGIF Teacher Newsletter, our community has grown, attracting 445 incredible members like yourself.

Leadership and Authenticity

Topics for this week include leadership styles, embracing your authenticity, and celebrating successes with your students.

STRONG Teacher Financial Toolkit

I've been fortunate to have good mentors who've offered me great advice. Here are some of the things they shared with me, along with a few things I've learned on my own.

Using Six-Word Memoirs to Build Classroom Culture

Without further ado, here are the Six Word Memoirs from my 2023 homeroom, which I hope will become a great tradition.

Why Teachers and Students Should Celebrate Their Successes: Boosting Confidence and Building Momentum

By recognizing and celebrating our achievements, we not only boost our confidence and motivation but also foster a positive mindset and gratitude.

Goal Update October 2023

Here are the results or lack thereof from October 2023.

The Diderot Effect: Avoiding the Spiral of Consumption in Teaching and Education

While it is important to stay updated and utilize effective resources, it is equally crucial to assess the actual needs and effectiveness of these materials.

Accountability and Hard Things

Topics for this week include student behavior and accountability, the power of words, and making teaching sustainable.

Teacher Gifts and Gadgets

TGIF Teacher Gadgets and Gifts

Every day should be Teacher Appreciation Day. Here are some teacher-approved gifts and gadgets that will bring smiles in and out of the classroom.

Education

Veteran’s Day - Teaching and Learning Resources

Here are some Veteran’s Day teaching and learning resources.

Education

Building Classroom Culture: Buddy Up to Foster Belonging and Connection

This year, I am trying something new to help them begin to build relationships with each other.

Using Equity Sticks in the Classroom: Resources and Tools

Equity sticks are a simple yet effective tool that teachers can use to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the classroom.

Why Edify

Why Edify Manifesto

To me, "Why Edify" represents building up the mind, body, and spirit, with education at the heart of it all.

Weekly Review

Gamification, AI Guidance, and 21st Century Skills

Topics for this week include the benefits of gamifying instruction, thoughtful guidance regarding the use of artificial intelligence, and building 21st-century skills.

Education

National Native American Heritage Month Teaching and Learning Resources

November is National Native American Heritage Month. Here are some teaching and learning resources.

Education

How to Help Students Develop Their Personal Greatness.

As teachers, we can create an educational pathway that empowers students to think boldly, dream big, and make a positive impact on the world. One of the joys of teaching is watching your students begin to travel their own trajectories and take steps to become the best version of themselves.

Weekly Report

Regain Your Mojo

Topics for this week include the power of routines, teacher support strategies, and regaining your mojo.

Education

Tips for Teachers - The Power of Routines

Fostering a collaborative culture in your classroom takes time and effort. This time and effort will be well spent. By implementing these tips, you can create a supportive environment where students thrive, develop essential skills, and achieve higher levels of academic success.

Education

The Case Against Bell-to-Bell Instruction

Teachers are often under pressure to have students engaged in academic activities. This makes it challenging for them and their students. A school day becomes more enjoyable with the right amount of breaks along the way.

Elfluencer

Comfort Zones and Adventures

What happens when you step out of your comfort zone?

Weekly Report

Duck Syndrome and Servant Leadership

Topics for this week include teen phone usage, the power of pre-tests, and authenticity.

Weekly Review

🤔 STRONG Teacher Weekly Review: ELfluencer, Letting Go, and Persistence

Here are some recent snippets from my STRONG Teacher Weekly Review. Each week, I take the time to look back and document my thoughts, readings, and experiences in the classroom and in life.

Education

How Teachers Can Use Notion for Effective Parent Communication: A Guide

These are the steps I followed to create a simple communication on a Notion page using a table. You'll also find a video explanation at the bottom of the article.

Education

Using Anchor Charts in the Classroom: Enhancing Learning, Engagement, and Student Ownership

Here’s a description of what anchor charts are, the benefits of using them, and a few ideas on how to use them in the classroom.