#122edchat is a weekly conversation designed to help inspire educators across the globe to reach their greatest potential in service of others. Megan Hacholski (@megan_hacholski) and Michael Abramczyk (@_on11), along with guest moderators, lead each week with a different focus tied to their strengths and areas of expertise.
My name is Besan Mohammad and I'm your moderator. I'm thankful for @Takreed for hanging out with me today during my bilingual conference. The best role model I can ask for! #122edchat
Hello, #122edchat! Jeffery E. Frieden here! 14-year-ELA teacher in Southern California.
I'm thankful for @Mummertopia, and one day I might get him to join an edchat.
Find out more about my work at https://t.co/hw4ZlUQ7z9
Vanessa Heller from Southern CA: #inquiry#pbl and #GiftedEd trainer, middle school humanities teacher, ELA Dept. Chair, Tech Innovator, Peer Coach. I am working on a few folks to start tweeting and then chatting….#122edchat
Intro: Welcome to today's #122edchat! @bmohamenglish and I are so excited to be here! Tag one person you’re thankful for that you would love to have join the chat.
Hi! I am super excited to co-moderate with @bmohamenglish for #122edchat. Thanks for the opportunity, and I can’t wait to start conversing with awesome educators. @G2Jourdan , I hope you can join our chat, tonight!
In reply to
@bmohamenglish, @bmohamenglish, @G2Jourdan
Hey, #122edchat crew! I'm joining from Tokyo. I'm incredibly thankful for @ErinLiKent and the continual inspiration she gives to the world of literacy. 🌟
Phil from Northern Virginia. I teach 6/7 US History I&II and am the founder of #waledchat (Thurs @ 9pm) and #Edusations (Youtube). Happy to be here tonight. #122edchat
Howdy #122edchat friends, it's Barbara, counselor, character coach, consultant, mentor, author of What's Under Your Cape? growing strong here in TX. Eager to reflect on 2018 with you all tonight!
Intro: Welcome to today's #122edchat! @bmohamenglish and I are so excited to be here! Tag one person you’re thankful for that you would love to have join the chat.
A1 My wife gave birth to our fourth child on Saturday morning! So, I took the two weeks off that bump up against our 3 week winter break! I'm being present at home, and loving it!
#122edchathttps://t.co/7nbzLiSOIa
Everly Rose, born at 8:20 AM. 7lbs. 2oz. 20 1/4 inches.
Mom did great! Everyone's healthy, all is well.
Thanking God for this little blessing and how smoothly everything went!
Hi Everyone! Deanna from DE. So thankful for @MrsLouder and @drjrocks76 and they should join the chat if they aren't asleep or getting kids to bed. #122edchat
A1 I try to get to the gym several times a week and yoga once a week… but I am mindful of the present and future at the same time…. I am a mom and a teacher...that’s just the way it is. Mental Multitasking is my jam! #122edchat
A1: Make daily to-do lists & stick to them. By planning out and looking at my week in smaller pieces, I'm able to compartmentalize tasks to a single day, instead of trying to cram everything in at once. The in-between time gives me the freedom to relax and be present. #122edchat
A1: I need to pay attention to my response to others. Am I rushing conversations? Am I being short? If yes, I often analyze "the root behind the fruit". 9/10 it is due to busyness or a lack of sleep. I just need to dial things down every now and again. #122edchat
A1: Definitely need to keep myself organized and continually have goals to focus on! I like to think about what I am working towards and my future classroom! #122edchat
A1 - I reflect after each class or each day about how lucky I am to teach amazing teens. That may seem corny, but it helps keep things centered and balanced in a positive way. #122edchat
Miss Q1? Here it is again! Q1: With winter break almost here, everything can get pretty hectic. What’s one thing you do to become more mindful of the present? #122edchat
A1: Remind myself that some Ss may "act out" or have difficulties during these last few days because spending the holiday break at home is not desirable. Remembering that the behaviors may be the fear of being away from routines #122edchat
Ray from Rhode Island here. K-8 Math Coach. Glad to be here once again from the comfort of my daughters room - she’s not even close to sleeping. I might be waiting her out for a while. #122edchat
A1: I'm working with intention to be where my feet right. Right here, right now, in the present moment, mindfully aware, without judgement. It's hard, but the benefits FAR outweigh the cost and the alternative. So important to unwrap the present. #122edchat
A1: I try to remind myself about the importance of finishing strong. I love reflecting a 5 year plan as in connection to what I have accomplished so far. This helps me to become more mindful of where I am at right now. #122edchat
A1 Honestly, I’m much better at creating learning events that keep students/participants focused on the present moment than I am at attending to the present moment myself. #122edchat
A1: Ask "how did I make someone's life better today or be of service to someone else?" I try to focus on talking to others and asking how others are doing. It really gets me out of the negative headspace and resets me. #122edchat
A1: I keep my phone ringer turned up. Seems completely backwards, but when it's on silent, I check it a dozen times per hour. If the ringer is on, I worry less bc I know I will be notified about anything important. #122edchat
A1: if I can’t get outside for some fresh air and a look up at the sky then it’s listening to music...something about it is very grounding and soothing for me #122edchat
A1- Step away from it all when I come from work and just focus on hanging out and playing with my daughter. No better way to be mindful and grateful for the moment than that for me. #122edchat
A1: While I take this time of year to really reflect on the past year in a person manner I also work to keep focused on the daily pieces. My littles need me there for them daily. #122edchat
A1 I am seriously struggling with this! This morning I was BEYOND overwhelmed and I just took two mins at my desk to stop, breath, and pray over my day! It wasn’t much but it was a start for sure! #122edchat
A1: ummm... beg the hubby to take me to @WaltDisneyWorld ... a lot...
Honestly I don't know. I'm not good at keeping my own stress levels low. #122edchat
A1: I finally found my Fitbit after losing it last week. It has a breathing app, that I use to take slow down and take a break. Boy do I need it! #122edchat
A2 I'm having the best year of growth and collaboration that I have ever had! I just need to make sure that I don't overdo this edutwitter thing, and keep my attention where it matters most--at home and in the classroom.
#122edchat
A1. I get to have lunch with some students each day. That time and the conversations we have reminds me that every task I do at school is for them. That helps keep me focused. 🍍#122edchat
Hey everyone!
A1: I stay mindful by trying to make it to the gym each morning. It gets my mind focused and gives me time to listen to various podcasts.
#122edchat
A1 I always go back to my To Do list, which for some reason, doesn't seem to run out. You finish one, then probably three more would take its place. Not complaining though. hahaha #122edchat
Great idea... I always have few years sketched out in advance in my mind...and I am 21 years in. Feet planted in the 'now', head pointed towards the future! #122edchat
A1. Reflect on accomplishments and improvements to make. I write a lot down too..staying organized as best as possible. Step away for a night and just relax too...🙂#122edchat
A2: In some ways, I feel like my journey has started over, since I'm in a new district. I have to remember that this is year 7, not year 1. My journey HERE has just begun, but my past has given me so much to offer in this new space. #122edchat
A1 I make sure to surround myself with people who are better with being in the present. I take time to have those meaningful conversations I need to have and do my best not to rush people or events that are taking place. #122edchat
A1: Remind myself that some Ss may "act out" or have difficulties during these last few days because spending the holiday break at home is not desirable. Remembering that the behaviors may be the fear of being away from routines #122edchat
Awesome! Glad to have you tweeting along tonight from an alternative location. Remind her to cooperate tomorrow...you are leading #masterychat. #122edchat
A1 - Embrace the season! Know that kids are going to be distracted with the vacation and the holiday, and know that there will be interruptions. It’s all about anticipating that stuff and making it work for you and not against you. #122edchat
A1. I like to do fun and creative activities with Ss in STEM ! We continue to stay focused on what's important the Ss! Bringing smiles to their faces as they learn! #122edchat
A1: I simply try to be present in each and every moment throughout the day. I try to be real and more than anything at this time of year, to listen to my students. #122edchat
A1: I try to find joy in the smallest moments. It’s amazing when you are “tuned in” & see all the things most take for granted or miss out on (smiles, eyes, birds, nature, sky, etc.) #122edchat
A2: I'm always asking the question, "Am I better than I was last year?" If the answer is NO, then I need to analyze the "why behind the what" and make the appropriate adjustments. If we are not reflecting on who we are and what we do, we are essentially robbing others. #122edchat
A2: Never give up on the things you believe and trust your heart. As I've aligned my goals to my WHY big things have happened this year like #GoogleEI and @VSTE tech coach of the year.
#122edchat
A1: I try to find time each day to connect with some special friends who fill my cup, allow me to reflect,and just make me happy! I enjoyed dinner tonight w/ my BFF & a phone call w/ an amazing member of my #PLN. I need that connection! #122edchat
A2: It doesn’t get easier, you just get better at it.
As my years in the game accumulate and I think I would take it easier, I actually have more goals now than I did before:
https://t.co/Ne4ct1jlmp#122edchat
Sara here from Texas! I currently teach 6th to 8th grade GT ELA. I'm really grateful for @MrOverstreet101. I'm always inspired by what he shares with me here! #122edchat
A2: I’m starting to see where my niche is...and honing my craft. Yes I may be an art teacher but I don’t teach art, I teach Ss and others how to express themselves without words, allowing healing to occur and empowering each to be their truest self #122edchat
Hi all! Kristen here from PA. I teach 6th grade science and the joys of 5 golden rings. I’m late because “I am not a que sera sera girl. I’m more of a perseveration kind of girl. “. 😂😂😂 and I was too busy perseverate for until I put my big girl pants back on. #122edchat
A2: Regardless of how many years I have taught, I consider each year of teaching opportunity as one of the greatest life privileges. The fact that I get to define my life journey as an educator can bring me joy, purpose, and responsibility. #122edchat
A2: Since I am a preservice teacher, I haven't had this opportunity yet. But I think that I would look back on how much I grew and if my growth is benefitting my students. #122edchat
A2 Coming to the end of 2018, I’ve never been more satisfied with what’s behind me or more unsure of what’s ahead. Good thing I know what direction I’m heading in, even if I don’t yet know my destination. #122edchat
A2 As the year comes to an end, I reflect on my next steps as a teacher. I am working on a side project that excites me & expands my busy brain. But I also reflect on what & how I can do better for my students… always thinking about that no matter the time of year. #122edchat
A2- Good year in review. Venturing out from my classroom and getting more involved in the education world. Launched a blog (https://t.co/aO0cOmz9Pg) and partnered with @Newsela on our first project. Working on some other things...fingers crossed #122edchat
A2: To always be willing to listen to my Ss, but not necessarily always do what they want. Also exceedingly important is to be available for Ss, which sometimes can mean going out of your way to do unconventional things to show how much you care about them. #122edchat
Hi Matt! Staying fit is so essential. Our kids need us at our best. I love getting to go for a short run each morning before school to clear my head. #122edchat
#122edchat A2: Everything that is done every day inside and outside of the classroom provides a chance to improve and grow. Not everything goes perfectly and sometimes getting a chance to fix it will make things better in the future.
A2: One thing I've already learned is that as an educator you never stop learning! New ideas and experiences will always come about so you always have room to grow! #122edchat
A2: I have figured out that I value learning so much that any experience less than true learning makes me miserable. Anything that no longer serves me or my students as learners must change. We all deserve better. #122edchat
A2: well, I'm only half way through year 2 so it's a short journey so far, but I guess my key reflections are to find your tribe, fight for what you believe in, and just keep swimming. #122edchat
A2: The more I learn, the more I realize there is so much more I want to learn. I’m so grateful for my journey in education so far and for the many people I’ve met along the way. #122edchat
A2: I am one that reflects daily. My reflections are filtered through those that I serve first. I always want to be the most effective at what I am doing for those that I am doing... #122edchat
Hi all - Sharon @teacherasleader now in HK just recently relocated from Melbourne Australia.
A1 Look, observe & enjoy the view - in your classroom, in your home, in your community - for me looking out to the views across HK #122edchat
A2 Change is good in what we do as educators. We just have to learn to slow down a bit as we might overwhelm ourselves, or worse, our Ss when we get so giddy introducing new things or new edtech tools. #122edchat
A2 This has been a year of Learning from others who are not like me, purposely hearing other perspectives and opinions of those of different beliefs and cultures. As I reflect I realize I have learned more this year than ever and I look forward to continued growth. #122edchat
A2: I reflect on where I am at the moment, how far I’ve come, and where I still want to go in this journey!! This year in particular as been a journey of connecting!! I’m so blessed by the amazing friendships I’ve formed from Twitter & how I’m a better T bc of them! #122edchat
A1: Remind myself that some Ss may "act out" or have difficulties during these last few days because spending the holiday break at home is not desirable. Remembering that the behaviors may be the fear of being away from routines #122edchat
A2: that you can’t take yourself too seriously and that positivity is contagious. I work each day to keep my positivity bank stocked and try to think of all the good we do daily. #122edchat
A3: I redid my mock trial lesson from last year and took my previous students recommendations. I found that this year was so much more of a success. #122edchat
A2-I feel like I’m always learning. I have been to some of the best PD’s this year through @SmekensEd and I feel it has made me a better educator. #122edchat
A2: This is yr 25 teaching - I am always refleciting on the amount of learning I have done. I am not the same teacher because I am always learning. #122edchat
A2~did I do right by kids? Did I ❤️them without exception? Did I embrace their families ? Did I treat them like my own? Yes yes yes yes 💗💗💗💗
#122edchat
A3: I have become more Rubric oriented which has allowed my students to become self-assessing and see their progress along lines of learning progressions. #122edchat
A3: I am super proud of losing 40 lbs; I really needed to make my health a priority again.
I am also incredibly proud of finding my voice through blogging & reading every @dbc_inc ever released. The implementations from each have transformed my practice. #122edchat
A3: So much progress has been made in the development of the future #SEGwarriornation STEM Lab. I cannot wait for the 2019-2020 school year! #122edchat
YES. Do not rush people or events. I find myself doing that with my kids sometimes...then I'm like "WHY?" They are only young once. I need to savor these moments. #122edchat
A3: Our Admin team is being successful thus far utilizing our PL time with Ts to discuss Ss and instruction with the help of our district office folks! It’s ALL about Ss and Instruction. #122edchat
A2: For me, reflecting means learning from the past and focusing on improving for the future. Learning never stops - there is always something new to discover and experience that will help me to grow as an educator and as a person. Life is an ongoing adventure! #122edchat
A2-I started a new role this year, so there are a lot of room for reflection. It has been really interesting to see things in education from a different perspective. I already know things I will do differently next year. #122edchat
A1: I am living the college student lifestyle to a T- coming down with sickness while papers and projects loom, only to immediately take finals!! Tea and a good book in a quiet place help me distance myself from the flurry of panic and become grounded. #122edchat
A3: Starting a Diversity Club and getting more knowledge and resources out there for staff and students. Helping all recognize that talking about race, culture, and self-identity doesn't have to be uncomfortable! #122edchat
A3: Since I am in the middle of "Tech Week", I'll say our Fall play, Star Stars. It's been a crazy ride with many late hours and intensive side projects, but I have not had this much fun in years. Acting and the tech side have been off the charts, incredible. #122edchat
A3: one huge accomplishmentfor me is getting my nonverbal students to start using words in the art room...these Ss have a label and they are far more than that and are capable of incredible feats that is masked by a label #morethanalabel#122edchat
Yes! Always back to our "WHY?" We talked about this today with our team..."Why are we doing this? Why are we acting?" When we focus on that, we can do anything! #122edchat
A3: The fact that I am motivated to thrive as a mother, a teacher, a researcher, and also as a policy fellow brings passion and happiness in my life. Challenging myself as a learner and continously growing are my two life goals. #122edchat
A3 - I’ve started an initiative called “pass the positivity!” It’s about kids sharing kind deeds that they’ve done or what’s been helpful to them. One small step in changing out culture for the better. #122edchat
A3- Not being that guy that self promotes themselves...but I really am happy about having launched my blog and getting more involved helping other Ts. Also landed my first ed grant this year so that was exciting. Won a teaching award at the end of last year. Good year. #122edchat
Absolutely! I just wrote a blog about my fear of regret being larger than my fears of failure (and success, oddly enough). Actions speak louder than words, right? #122edchat
A2: Be real. The process is more important than the product. You either succeed or you learn, and if we’re lucky, we do both. relationships, relationships, relationships. Multiple learning activities and assessments in multiple ways. And always be a pirate. #tlap#122edchat
A2 As I've had to make big decisions in the last 6 months - take risks & chances in your jouney by opening yourself to new opportunities & growth. And when reflecting know that you've made the difference in the work that you do in your school community #122edchat
A2: reflection-I always have room to grow&learn. I should always push myself out of my comfort zone& find opps to use my skills as well as gain new skills, As I would encourage my Ss to do also. #122edchat
A3: Noble Knight Positive Behavior referral! It has given great positive interaction with S’s and parents. Oh, and I passed all 5 Principal Evaluation Modules!! #122edchat
A3 Personally I am healthier-lost 45, est healthier and began running. Professionally The culture of our school is one that is inspiring and exciting. I am proud of the teachers I work with! #122edchat
A3: It may sound a bit cheesy, but I am proud of everything my Ss have accomplished already this year! They've learned not only how to speak, read and write in Spanish, but also how to dance the Macarena, about the Spanish Civil War, and Christmas carols in Spanish! #122edchat
A2: So many reflections this year as I left my public school position to pursue my encore career. Wherever I go, it's all about connections and relationships first. Education is a work of HEART that our future depends up. We ALL have the need to belong, to matter. #122edchat
A3: jumping in real late! Still recovering from being down with the flu the last 2 days! Biggest accomplishment this year has to be using mastery learning all year. As are loving it & getting so much more personalized attention! #122edchat
A3: On #WorldKindnessDay I emailed English teachers at 6am and had them modify their bellwork to involve writing thank you letters to staff in our building. We ended up with over 500 letters, many of which are now hung in classrooms and a few that brought ppl to tears #122edchat
#122edchat A3: Adding new things to my lessons to keep them interesting and relevant for my students. With the transition to 1:1, there have been a lot of new opportunities made available and it has been interesting finding ways to enhance instruction.
A3: This year I started the journey of pursuing my dream of becoming an elementary teacher and I am so excited for these next three years of learning! #122edchat
A2. You never stop learning as an educator or a person in life! The day you stop learning and growing is the day you die! Build relationships with Ss! Encourage them to learn and grow! #122edchat
A2: I am always thinking about ways to inspire everyone around me including Ts and Ss to work up to their full potential. I try to focus on the positives that have happened this year and things that need to be shaken up a little. #122edchat
A1: I tend to be constantly in motion. In order to tap the brakes a bit, I'm trying to remind myself to sometimes be still and just breathe. This ensures I'm mindful of the present and who or what is right in front of me. I'm encouraging the same for my students! #122edchat
A3: Proud that I helped our Ts move to more online assessments where we can get better data (and faster). We may be close to 70% of final exams being done on @Schoology#122edchat
A2: Not having begun an actual teaching career, I reflect on the way my semester went as a student and what I have learned as an educator-in-training #122edchat
A2: It has been an incredible journey thus far. Oh! The amazing people I have worked with & the things I have learned along the way. My ❤️ has been touched by so many! #122edchat
#122edchat -A3 - I lead a 30 person PD for an entire day, and some teachers who hadn’t had great PD experiences told me it was one of the first times they felt like the PD was relevant for them in years.
A3: I just finished my master's in instructional technology! Also transitioned into a new role this year, working as tech integrator for grades 7-12 from K-6 last year. #122edchat
A3: We have made it through a whole semester, almost, and no students on my caseload have been #modified in any classes. 2019 is looking bright!
#122edchat#spedchat#LDchat
A2: Key reflection is that our journey as edcuators never end. We have so much to invest in our kids and the harvest is years down the road. Who else has a higher calling? Persevere. #122edchat
A3 I am proud of introducing a social justice focus in humanities through the #SDGs (sustainable development goals). It’s a work in progress, but I am pleased with the kids’ enthusiasm and willingness to look beyond themselves. #122edchat#TeachSDGs
A3: grown closer to my 14y/o daughter and helping her start to figure out who she wants to be in life. If I'm making a difference with the most important girl in my world, then there's a good chance I'm making a difference w/my Ss too! #122edchat
A4: That I didn't take as many risks when it came to some lessons. Sometimes thinking outside of the box scares me. I'm learning to branch out of my comfort zone. #122edchat
A1
I work best under pressure
However I am mindful of those around me and I try to support those who need me most I keep pushing forward and stay strong because it's all about our students and every learning minute counts!#122edchat
A3. Personally- I am presenting at MANY conferences on EdTech in the Bandroom. Excited! Professionally- my 8th grade band sound really good and have bought in. They smellllllllll what the Rock is cookin'. #122edchat
A3: I started using Twitter to connect with other Ts across the country (and world) which lead to great lesson of my Ss tweeting their identity stories, with support from @GaryRGrayJr So much power in a PLN! #122edchat
A3: I have to say I am proud of myself for (almost) getting through my first semester of college! It has been difficult, but I have loved the experience as a whole. #gccedu#122edchat
A2: As I reflect each year my biggest thing is how can I improve to be better for all my students. How I can I engage them and get their curiosity blossoming. #122edchat
A2. Key reflections can be the success we have seen with staff and students for the 1st part of the year. We can also reflect on what areas we want to improve on for the 2nd part of the year. A lot of great work is left to be done. #122edchat
A4: Change one thing? I'd run quicker, help more teachers and be more involved in students' lives day to day. My role sometimes prevents those things but I step up and do what I can! #122edchat
Yeah. It's a struggle. I am up between 5:15 and 5:30. I just feel off if I don't get a run in. I put on a show and knock it out before the kids get up and going. #122edchat
A3: My class set a goal to connect with all 50 states through #globalcollaboration & we succeeded!! Through that journey, I discovered a passion for having a connected classroom which has led to me presenting at different conferences! Best part was the new friendships! #122edchat
A4: I wish I could allow myself a little more grace. I have felt worn down, overwhelmed and stressed out more often than not. I love where I am and what I'm doing, but I'm pushing myself harder than ever. #122edchat
I wish I would have started documenting my journey when I was a newbie nut i have taken pictures from the get go. I try to blog now but it's not a habit. #122edchat
A3: proud of completing my ed leadership studies...for now, until I pursue more studies. Continuing to take risks in my teaching& learning w/o sacrificing student outcomes or my integrity #122edchat
A3 Thanks to Twitter friends from all over, been trying out new edtech tools since this school year started. It's comforting to know there are many educators who share the same struggles as we share the same passion. Your best practices and experiences mean a lot. #122edchat
A4: In our Lab, we attempted to start too many new initiatives, all at the same time and have had little time to meet as a team in the past 3 months. Heartbreaking. We have great people...we just need time to talk. #122edchat
A4: I think it’d be asking for help and using my voice before the moment had passed...knowing what I have to say has value and worth as do I...and all of you #122edchat
A4: I would probably go about doing certain things differently in my approach to academics, but I feel a lot of the errors I've made have prepared me for the rest of my college career. I want to look at things in a more positive light in future. #122edchat
A3: I'm pretty proud of our #Kindness rocks Peace Garden. I'm so grateful to have partnered with @KidsforPeace and our school district @friendswoodisd to create this serenity spot. #122edchat
A2: Honestly, I had a moment last year when I wondered if I was done. I don't teach on a team at my school, & I was feeling isolated & stagnant. I committed to grow & to remember my why, I found a "team" here, & I started presenting at conferences again. It's a cycle! #122edchat
@Shapiro_WTHS and I agree “relationships first, content second”. My reflections are about the quality of the relationships I have built with my kiddos! #122edchat
A4 ONE THING!?!? Well so many but taking more moments to “Be Still” and take mental note of the beautiful moments that were taking place. I am a blessed man and sometimes I take that for granted. #122edchat
Q3: that I have tried new things beyond my comfort zone. I tried gamification, coding, and providing opportunities for my students to do more on their own. While proud, I know I can do better. #122edchat
A4: If I could change one thing, I would pilot some sort of anti-bullying club, where all are equally loved, accepted, helped and encouraged. #122edchat
I used to be so good at Twitter chats - need to get involved more! I'm still relatively new to education but saw the value of them when I used to work in marketing. #122edchat
A3: #122edchat
1. I found my #PLN tribe on Twitter!
2. I started blogging.
3. I started writing a children's book.
4. I made a difference in the lives of students.
5. I survived another summer in the Death Valley wilderness!
A3: When my students from last year stop to give me hugs and tell me that they wish I was still their teacher. I know I did something right to connect with them. Hoping to make more connections like those again. #122edchat
A4: There were moments when I doubted my capability in some of the newly introduced scholarly opportunities. In the end, I have grown and gained more confidence in my role as an educator. #122edchat
A2 - @Shapiro_WTHS and I agree “relationships first, content second”. My reflections are about the quality of relationships I have built with my kiddos! #122edchat
A4: honestly, nothing. Each experience has provided me a lesson, no matter how painful. I lost a dear uncle which was very sad but even that taught me something. I will uphold his legacy...#122edchat
A4 Change one thing? Use my voice more often to express myself professionally in public. It’s easy for me to do this online—not always in person. #122edchat
Beautifully said, Elyse. So often we are quick to extend grace to others but we punish ourselves with ridicule and restrictions. Again. I needed to hear this tonight. #122edchat
So true....teaching does that to people. Control what I can control and surround myself with people that are positive and challenge me to be better #122edchat
Q4 I wish I had started gamification earlier and did it the whole year. I am going to try to reboot the game coming back from holidays. I also wish I had started an after school science club. #122edchat
A3: I have stepped out to try new things. I did accomplish to write a handful of blogs. I went to the Denver Comic Con which was way outside my comfort zone. My learning turned out in a different way than expected, but I learned. #122edchat
A5 As the year closes, I have a few blog posts in mind (one nearly done) to reflect on all the learning that I have done. I would also like to record my first podcast episode and get that ready to launch with the new year! (working title: Dear Teacher, Don't Give Up!)
#122edchat
A4 Our literacy notebooks…. Just can’t find the time to really use them the way I intended. As I have tweeted many times, the 50 minute period will be the death of me! #122edchat
A4: honestly I don't want to get myself in trouble for poorly wording the thing I want to change the most this year, so I'll just say that I am going to keep looking forward because it's too late to change things anyways!! #122edchat
A4. So many choices of things to change if we could go back and rewrite the past. The only thing I can do is learn from them and try to get better each day! Learn from the past, live in the present, and prepare for the future. #122edchat
A4: I think I would reflect more deeply and appreciate the process in my own life more. I think my mind wants to keep propelling me forward w/out examining where I've come from and where I want to go.
#122edchat
A5: I'm spending the holidays and new year traveling around Japan. Travel always allows me to reconnect, refocus and come back feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. I feel lucky in that regard! #122edchat
A5: For the first time in almost 5 years, my husband will have weekends off from his job, starting this Saturday - so we'll be doing a LOT of celebrating! #122edchat
A5: I plan to unplug for most of the Christmas and New Year's break. I need some true down time to focus on family, friends, and relaxation.
#122edchat
A5: I would like to focus on the good things/ things I'd like to replicate from 2018, and celebrate with family and friends to ring in the new year! #122edchat
A5: After my first semester of college, I have learned more about the value of education and my eyes were definitely opened up to issues educators face. #122edchat
A5 I want to celebrate YOU! I apparently joined Twitter in 2013 but didn’t really start using it until 2018, and it’s been transformative to meet you, see your work, and hear your stories. #122edchat
A4 Leaving my school community as Director of Learning & Teaching was the most difficult change - missing the happy faces of over 600 students & colleagues each day - but I wouldn't change my journey #122edchat
Special thanks to our excellent #122edchat moderators this evening, @GraceLee380 and my good buddy and fellow colleague, @bmohamenglish. Looking forward to hanging out with you on Friday night for Star Stars. "Fanboy" @DBlabas gave today's show 7 thumbs up!
A4 I would have advocated a little more for my own child! I feel like I find myself advocatingfor other people’s children sometimes more than my own... hurts my heart to say that but it is def something to work on! #122edchat
A3: Discovered @DeckToys and became a Maven in 2 months :) hope to continue spreading the word on this marvellous #edtech tool and make more shareable lessons in 2019! #122edchat
A3
I am proud to work with the amazing ts in my building & to call myself their tech coach for the second year. I am proud of the work they do and the things they accomplish in the name of student learning I am proud to be surrounded by such dedicated professionals #122edchat
A5 - I’d like to think about how I can make a difference in 2019. While there are many positive things going on, each day is another chance to try something new and creative. #122edchat
A5: I would love to celebrate the year 2018 with my twitter friends! I am so happy that I can chat with awesome educators and continue to expand my network of Twitter friends. #122edchat
A4: I would have maintained my physical development and road to a healthier me. I fell off a couple times, but I am back on. I may not be there yet, but I will get there. #122edchat
A1: As an Elementary School AP, I have difficulty living in the present moment and making time for quiet reflection. I have made a commitment to use the Calm App daily and it has made all the difference. #122edchat
A4: I wish I can make the district and school policy makers see how focusing on just tests and data is taking the joy out of teaching and learning. I wish we see kids before school grades and data gains. Just FED Up! #122edchat
A friend of mine said they are looking at Grove City for their son and I was like - hey that's the college that gets their future Ts onto twitter chats! #122edchat
A5 All I want to do is stay in jammies for two weeks straight reading books and writing a bit! I reflect constantly, so for winter break I just want to celebrate the year's end by vegging out (but I know I will end up working on school stuff). #122edchat
A5: I continued to pursue my vision(s) and finally put myself out there, even with the feeling of failure, to provide more resources and be available for students during challenging times no matter how much negativity I received for my vision(s) #122edchat
A5: It’s time to celebrate. Reflection is great and needed, but you all are awesome educators who care enough to do the reflect and do PD via Twitter when you don’t have to. They semester is almost over. You made it. #wedontcelebrateenough#122edchat
A4: I would change my daughter being diagnosed with diabetes. Not just her diagnosis, but just get rid of the entire disease for all children. It's horrific to watch my 5 yr old try to understand what's happening in her little body. #122edchat
A5: By truly taking the time to reflect and appreciate all of the blessings I have been given and share my thanks and gratitude with those around me #122edchat
I have a group of 4 or 5 fifth graders that stop by my room EVERY afternoon for hugs on their way to their safety patrol duties - that is the best feeling! I also have a few that search me out in the lunchroom. Thanks for reminding me to appreciate that! #122edchat
A4: So I tried the theory of risk taking to orthopedics. My hubby, the pt, told me it was a bad idea. I told him I value risk taking, and as I tell my ss, what could go wrong?! Well....risk taking did not translate very well. 😬#haventwalkedin11weeks#122edchat
A5: Every Wed and Thurs, I jump onto the #122edchat and #waledchat and these chats have really helped me find ways to celebrate, appreciate, and enjoy teaching a little bit more.
A5: I would like to celebrate the successes my Ss have had learning through inquiry in Modern US History. Really different approach, but it's working. #122edchat
A5- Reflecting on the year with family, friends, and my Twitter fam. Been a great year. Excited to see what next year is going to bring. So many determined and innovative people I have met here that are rocking the education world! #122edchat
A5: STAY PRESENT, be persistent, demand what is deserving, celebrate all small moments of happiness& success& never dwell in the past or anything negative.,#122edchat
A3: I'm really proud that I've presented at multiple conferences this year. Presenting what I know challenges me to dig deeper. Working with other educators during these conferences inspires me, and I return to the classroom stronger and with more ideas than ever! #122edchat
A5: I’d like to reflect & celebrate the end of 2018 by celebrating accomplishments, relationships, growth, and learning... and with an abundance of joyfulness. #122edchat
A4
I would wave my magic wand and give the teachers in my building enough Chromebooks for each student in each of their classes
so they could implement the technology tools they are longing to use and so the students could benefit from the technology experience #122edchat
A2: I’ve learned that challenging days, interactions, and events have taught me more than the wonderful days. I’m grateful for every experience. #122edchat
Spot on, Ryan. As always. Sometimes we miss the blessings. Got a text from @JamesHeniff tonight that helped me recenter my focus. #grateful. #122edchat
In reply to
@PrincipalRLA, @bmohamenglish, @JamesHeniff
A5: For the last 10 yrs I have worked through the yr with one word. I always reflect and write about my yr through the word. I'm getting ready to start that and my word for 2019 has found me. #122edchat
A5: I always love visiting all of the resort hotels at @WaltDisneyWorld to see the holiday decorations. Also driving around those certain neighborhoods with the awesome light displays. I'm a real kid during the holidays! #122edchat
A5 Celebrate the success of the year and the hope of the year to come. Celebrate with family and friends and celebrate by sharing how amazing my Twitter PLN has added to my professional growth. Trying to encourage all educators I can to get connected! #122edchat
A5~I’ll count my blessings, tell my 82 yr old feisty mom how I am forever thankful for her sacrifices she made for her children so we can be where we are today 😊 ~ I’m making a difference b/c of this sweet soul ❤️ #122edchat
Not sure - I've been hanging with these folks since earlier this summer, and I only remember Wednesdays. @_on11 - did #122edchat used to be on Tuesday?
I hear ya...I was at the same juncture a couple years back when I discovered the power of Twitter. It's a game changer. So many powerful voices that have molded and shaped my career and character. I am better because of the people here. #122edchat
Have been working with this model for over 20 years in Australia within schools - benefits of inquiry are exponential in learning & teaching programs #122edchat
Yes! Meeting folks like you has been so vital to me! I adore you, Ryan! Makes me sad that others don't have what I have in each of my #PLN members on Twitter! #122edchat
A5: Remind myself that stuggles and triumphs go hand in hand. I may not have reached all my students, but I have made a difference by changing my mindset about teaching. #122edchat
A4: I would have chunked the grading of our "The Masque of the Red Death" analysis essays. Getting all of them done in one weekend brought back memories of caffeine supported cramming in college! The struggle of an ELA teacher to keep up w/authentic grading is real! 🤣 #122edchat
2018 was an incredible year filled with so many highs and lows. I’ll celebrate soon with a personal podcast to recap some of my own #theteachersjourney this year #122edchat
A5
I would like to reflect upon all of the positives and forget all of the negatives! I am a glass-half-full type of person I would like positive energy to flow into the new year!#122edchat
I've heard about what awesome work has been done in Australia & NZ. I read a lot about it here, but so much of the focus I saw was in Science & Math. We have some inquiry standards now in Social Studies - so much more work to do. #122edchat
The feeling is 100% mutual! Maybe when the story is complete, I have you come for an author visit! Then they will see how great connections like this can be!! 😀#122edchat
Rome was not built in a day, and neither will your program. Megan, you are one of the most dedicated and consummate professionals that I have ever met. We are where we are because of your leadership. Receive grace to grow at a normal pace. You WILL get there. #122edchat
Q5: I would love to remember this as "leap" year... I've always been an out of the box thinker and teacher, but this year I committed to just jump. The rewards have far outweighed the risks, and my students are better for it! #122edchat
A1 #122edchat Jeri fr USA New Jersey English Teacher! In school, I lighten up and make more time 4 engaging but educational FUN! Ss dad an @glogster project in small groups last yr. They loved it. At home, it’s the one break where I do not work. All about fun and family!
A5 I’m hoping to put together some sort of slideshow of all the videos and pictures on my phone and then sit and watch them all with my family, our Christmas tree up, some hot cocoa (or something) in hand, and be thankful. #122edchat
A2 #122edchat Education is my 2nd career. I spent a wonderful 23 yrs in publishing&advertising. Switching was 1 of my top 5 life choices. Ts who love their subject, loves kids, and are life long learners DO make a difference! There’s nothing else like it!
A4 Id have written a proposal earlier so it could be considered for 18-19, but other than that... nothing? It’s been a year of fun, adventure, New & old friends, new family members, and more. #122edchat
A3 #122edchat today, after 34 years in the same home, we closed on a new home in a beach town! It was no easy feat, but we did it. I wrote two articles for @DisruptedTv and three articles for @educationweek and @Larryferlazzo.
In reply to
@bmohamenglish, @DisruptedTv, @educationweek, @Larryferlazzo
A3 I’m proud of the fact I’ve started sharing my plans, ideas, resources at conferences, on my ‘18 new blog (https://t.co/k9zwmFVIhZ), and through articles. It took some reflection, vulnerability, and soul-searching, but it’s been totally worth it!! #unlimitedteacher#122edchat
A2 I can do what’s right for my students. And I’ll almost always hear “Yes.” When I don’t, it is a matter of finding a different way or a different time. #122edchat
A4 #122edchat it’s been a heck of a year of big life changes. I lost my temper, was tooooooooo stressed, made myself crazy (and probably a couple of other people too), and my husband and son got the worst of me! Wish I handled it all a bit better.
A1: I try to remind myself that my students deserve the version of me that is completely present, positive, and focused on them...not the version of me that is stressed, frustrated, or exhausted. #122edchat
Miss Q1? Here it is again! Q1: With winter break almost here, everything can get pretty hectic. What’s one thing you do to become more mindful of the present? #122edchat
