#MasteryChat is a weekly chat with a growing family of educators from around the word focused on teaching better and reaching more students. Topics cover an array of challenges and solutions for teachers of all grade levels and subject areas, admins, and support staff.
#MasteryChat occurs every Thursday at 8:00pm eastern.
The chat was created by team at @thegridmethod, but is hosted by guest moderators each week. Our primary moderators are @techieteachott, @raehugart, and @jeffgargas.
#masterychat - Ray from Rhode Island here. Happy to announce that I just accepted the K-8 Math Instructional Coaching job in my district! The decision to leave the classroom was a really though one, but I am looking forward to the new challenge.
Favorite team is the Cubs!
Hello. My name is Susan, and I am first year teacher from IL. Tomorrow is my last day of PD, and I have open house on Sunday with my first day on Monday. Beyond excited to meet my kiddos! #masterychat
Hello everyone! I'm Tracy from NJ and I'll be student teaching high school English in 2 weeks! I don't like baseball, so I'll have to pass on this question! #MasteryChat
Hey everyone! Time is flying by! Kids begin Monday so this week of prep has disappeared! I’m Scott from Michigan. Middle school dean. Detroit Tigers! #GoTigers#MasteryChat
Hi! I’m Tziri - Ed Tech Specialist and HS English teacher from Brooklyn, NY. I don’t follow baseball at all, but I suppose that as a NYer, I should be a Yankees fan... #masterychat
Good Evening!! Excited to be here for another dose of #MasteryChat! My favorite baseball team is the St. Louis Cardinals! My boyfriend is from MO and fell in love with the team after watching them in the World Series a few years ago!
Nick Baskwill Grade 5 NS Canada - Toronto Blue Jays! Failing that cheering on the Oakland A's, after watching Moneyball I have always wanted them to win one! #masterychat
#masterychat - Also, if you haven't already, check out the first episode of the Instant Relevance Podcast (@InstantRel)!
Denis Sheeran (@MathDenisNJ) and I talk about how to make learning relevant for all students:
https://t.co/45ePaLxJSn
I'm Chad Ostrowski Creator of #thegridmethod and proud co-founder of @teachbetterteam. I love helping schools, districts and teachers across the country reach more students! #teachbetter#masterychat My favorite team is The Pittsburgh Pirates although I rarely follow them closely
Hello #MasteryChat Heather, shhh.... can’t say what kind of teacher from NY 😁
Baseball... is that the sport where you yell fore?! Just kidding I choose the Jets.... I like green
Icebreakers have always been hard for me. Most of the kids know each other and act like they are too cool for them! Excited for some awesome ideas from my #MasteryChat
#masterychat - A1 - I ask my Ss - "Would you rather fight one horse sized duck or 100 duck sized horses." And I use it as a way to talk about proper collaborative discussion and I have them present their argument with evidence.
A1: One of my favorite ice-breakers is two truths and a lie. It really gets the students to get to know one another, and even fun if the teacher goes first as an example! (Bonus - it is super interesting for the staff to to do too). #MasteryChat
A1: Don’t know the name of it, but we gave everyone a name tag. They wrote their name on it. Then they had a sheet for notes. On the paper, they’re given thirty seconds to write as much as they could think of about themselves. Then they partnered up and shared. #MasteryChat
A1: Flipgrid Intros posted on website prior to start of school! Then I download and edit to create 1st Day video. In addition Ss answer Google Form from which I make a scavenger hunt for the first day thanks to @tonyvincent sharing the Scavenger ?#MasteryChat
A1 The first week of school I do a lot of getting to know you challenges as soon as the Ss walk through the door. Their seats are decided in order by middle name or birthday closest to today... and of course they have to communicate non verbally! #MasteryChat
A1 - My favorite was always having the students create "fakebook" pages. Each student basically creates a physical page that is their profile and I then have a ton of information about my students that I can use to build relationships and get to know them! #MasteryChat
I usually like activities with stations so I can walk around and get to know Ss. This year I’m mixing it up and using @TheTechRabbi’s idea and trying the #30CircleChallenge and Combine and Innovate on Day 1. Surveys will be Day 2! #masterychat
A1: I love, love, LOVE giving groups a sheet of construction paper, glue, and scissors then challenging them to make the longest chain! Great to see them work through the problem together. #masterychat
A1: I do a classroom presentation, which leads to a lot of discussions abut non-school related things. For the first day, it's OK to not stay on task. #masterychat
A1: As a pre-service English T, my Ss need to be writing from day one. For my 1st day, I would like my Ss to write a paragraph introducing themselves without using first or 2nd person and gender pronouns. Also have Ss write one word to capture their goals. #MasteryChat
A1: I was just getting those ready today. I have a questionnaire where Ss have to write down guesses as to what my favorite color is, etc and then we go over them. I have a time capsule ready, a math bingo game, and I plan on reading "The First Day Jitters". #masterychat
#masterychat A1 I like to break my people into intentional groups so that they meet someone new. So many great ideas to get to know one another. https://t.co/h2eIUj3ZA1
Hello #masterychat Merissa checking in. I love playing games (like 2 truths and a lie) with the whole class and having some fun while we get to know each other. I also like the 4 corners game to find common interests among Ss.
Hi!! I’m Cecily, a 4th grade teacher in Concord, NC. I don’t have a baseball team but I DEFINITELY HAVE A FOOTBALL TEAM 🏈 @Panthers#KeepPounding#Masterychat
A1b: after sharing, the pairs exchange name tags and now have to be that person with a new partner. This continues for a couple rotations till they have to find the original person and share what they remember and compare it to what the person originally said. #MasteryChat
A1 Favorite icebreaker:
Student: “I’m ___.”
Everyone else: “Hi, ___!”
In 2 minutes, they all learn how to pronounce each other’s names and get greeted by their peers. That leaves 48 minutes to begin forming a community by doing meaningful academic work together.
#MasteryChat
A1. Pass a roll of toilet paper around and tell Ss to take as many squares as they feel they need. With each square they have to tell a sentence describing themselves. #masterychat
A1: playing a game of getting to know you cranium! Humming songs, building with play dough, drawing, choosing facts over lies, etc. for both staff and ss! So excited! #Masterychat
A1 I always like to have students solve a challenge because it helps me get to know them. I also like to do the get to know me posters, so I can learn about their likes and dislikes. #MasteryChat
A1~Biggest ice breaker activity ~ Ss design their own bucket seats with the focus on positive affirmations & students filling their buckets with their fav things ~ books, trinkets ~ things that make them feel alive ~ #passionprojects#masterychat
A1: I like “I used to dream about .. but now I ...” you write the answer to both prompts on a post it and line up in 2 lines facing watching other- Side A reads the answer to “I used to dream about” and side B reads their answer to “but now I “... it’s a blast ! #MasteryChat
A1. I do a scavenger hunt with parents and my students the day before Ss arrive. Great way for them to get to know classroom, peers, me and the school. #MasteryChat
A1. Digital Breakout EDU designed by me that will get them up and moving out of their seats, thinking critically, and collaborating with a group. Use Padlet so the students have to search for information through their peers' responses. #masterychat
A1 Created a @zeetings presentation and asked funny questions to poll Staff...each person gets the link and can follow along...Zeetings is awesome! #masterychat
A1: I try to get the kids comfortable working in groups ASAP. They rotate between 3 stations 1- syllabus scavenger hunt, 2- goal setting/meet the teacher & 3- describe the perfect student, classroom, and teacher. #masterychat
A1 my favorite ice breaker is https://t.co/IY19SKOFvb but I change it to "I'm a Cowboy and you're a Cowboy too if..." gets kids moving and lets them see things they have in common!
#masterychat
Brian from IL a little tardy tonight
A1: I solve a mystery w/my class, together we get to know each other & how we are going to think in science #masterychat
A1: pt2 I have my Ss stand in a circle and the first person introduces himself, and then each person after introduces everyone starting with the first person and ending with himself until it gets around to the first again and he has to name everyone. #MasteryChat
A1 - Today was our first day and our Associate Principal started this last year and it grew this year. We do a quick 5 words to describe me and 1 word to describe you, above the line, followed by board game teams. Today we played CandyLand, Sorry!, and Topple! #MasteryChat
A1 My students come from all over the world & speak many languages. The icebreaker consists of basic information about each student with one thing they wish everyone knew about their country. This gets them speaking with each other which is very difficult with ELLs. #masterychat
A1: I always have them go around and add to posters around the room, the answers are anonymous, so Ss write things they might be too embarrassed to say out loud. I get such a kick reading them. #MasteryChat
A1 My favorite ice breaker is 4 corners. My Ss answer questions by moving to a corner. Ex - Fave ice cream and each corner would be a different flavor. #masterychat
A1: The first day depends on the class. In a history or gov class we would derive our class expectations and philosophies together by analyzing quotes. In my religion class each student shares their religious background and why they’re interested in religion. #MasteryChat
A1.2 group pairs off and finds something in common. Then each pair find another pair to find something all 4 have in common...etc. until you try and find something that everyone in the group has in common. #masterychat
I saw someone used @GooseChase for some of the housekeeping items and then had fun activities planned for the actually first day. I like that approach and may use it. #masterychat
A2 There are some rules that are set, however, I like to work with them and decide what respect looks and sounds like and what it doesn't. Then we build a list of expectations for them AND for me. #masterychat
A2: Again, I use @breakoutEDU to go over some. Others get brought up over the 1st week. No need to bore kids on Day 1 with every rule in the book #masterychat
A1: This year I am going to have a student create a shared Google Slide introducing themselves and goals for the year. My favorite thing is to play something funny as they walk in. This year will be the coconut song. #masterychat
A2: I think it's important that teachers establish their expectations to their Ss on the first day. But it's also important that Ss are able to contribute to what the rules and class norms are #MasteryChat
A2: haven’t done it, but I think a video skit of the teachers acting like students would be a fun & engaging way for younger kids to learn procedures #MasteryChat
A2: make them a part of it! Using memes this year. Giving ss blank ones to write “rules” in groups. “Choosing” the best ones. Thinking about making them all of me or using ss as the pic for the meme. 😂 #Masterychat
I make a screen cast of my website, syllabus, and grading format and send it home prior to the start of the year so parents and Ss know what’s going on in class before they get there assuming they watched it. #MasteryChat
A2 You always need your ground rules, but let the kids decide the rest! They know how a class should act and behave, they should have a huge amount of influence on the rules of the classroom! #MasteryChat
A2: Have students design skits to act the rules/norms. Students can use @screencastify to record the skits or they can act them out in front of the class. #masterychat
A2: To build trust and get buy-in, my best practice for colleagues or students is to have them work cooperatively to derive our norms. My students analyze quotes, my PLC teams revisit previous norms and decide what they like and what they don’t moving forward. #MasteryChat
A2 - We haven’t done this yet but we have drawn some lines today to keep everyone safe and enjoying the beginning of school. Last year we came up with classroom rules collaboratively as a class. #MasteryChat
A2: I teach high school, so my students (should) know the right way to act; so it's all about the relationships, and earning their trust. If the relationship is there, the unspoken rules are followed! As for norms; get them into a routine- but understand mistakes! #masterychat
A2: have Ss work in small groups to decide what would make them feel safe in the classroom? What agreements would make everyone feel connected? #masterychat
A2: @GetKahoot is always a fun idea! Also...Last week our staff learned about restorative circles, and in those we will create norms & values as a classroom community. Choice is important and empowering! #Masterychat
A2 Kids come up with their own expectations and we compare with my room management plan. They see that my plan is all about the Do's and not the Don'ts. #masterychat
A2: I start with call backs. On day two, tomorrow, I’m going to have the Ss create their Respectful Relationship Agreement from Restorative Practices. This is uncharted waters for me. #MasteryChat
A2: As a new teacher, I want my Ss to have a voice. I am planning on splitting my students up into groups and come up with 3-5 rules that I will put on the board. Once we share out, as a class, we will pick the most important ones or the common themes. #masterychat
A2: We set norms that are developed by the class and the T moderates. Then once there’s buy in, the T go over the other routines/procedures. Ss love the opportunity to have a buy in and then are more interested and utilize norms to regulate the discussion. #MasteryChat
A2 We have an exercise in chapter 2 of EMPOWER Your Students where Ss create their own commitments for how they want to be in a group, based on their own values.
#MasteryChat
A2 In addition to the established school wide behavioral expectations posted in classrooms, hallways, etc... I always let ss come up with ideas for their own personalized classroom expectations. It's interesting to me how tough they are on themselves and others! #masterychat
A2 As Ts we have norm goals in our heads Have Ss make norms w/Ts so they are co-owned You can steer Ss in a direction to have similar norms form class to class in middle/high school #masterychat
A2: NOT dong it on the first day- because community building is more important- lol... then working it in as as a Kahoot! Or having kids break into teams and choose a couple rules and have choices- rap, draw, act out- etc... Not that original but more fun than #MasteryChat
A1: By making it fun and engaging. Just like students, teachers get bored if PD is not engaging and principals do all the talking. This PD was 80s. I’m the rap guy 😂#MasteryChat
#masterychat A2 The rules can be put into a jeopardy, Kahoot, or other online game. Kids on the first day will tune out the rules, especially if they have been spoken "at" all day before they enter your class.
A2: make them a part of it! Using memes this year. Giving ss blank ones to write “rules” in groups. “Choosing” the best ones. Thinking about making them all of me or using ss as the pic for the meme. 😂 #Masterychat
A2. This year, I opened up a Google doc and typed in the kids ideas. We then numbered them and wrote in complete sentences. They then copied them into their own journals. #masterychat
#masterychat - A2 - I have three rules:
1) Show respect in your words and your actions
2) Class time is for class activities
3) Come mentally and physically prepared.
I put Ss into groups and they come up with examples for each rule, so they come up with the specifics themselves
At our school we generate the classroom expectations together. The Ss feel part of the process and seem to enjoy setting limits for themselves. We emphasize safety and community allowing Ss to explore how that looks in the classroom/school.
#masterychat
No, do not narrow it down. Make it these last the first two weeks, and then do more throughout the whole year. You can’t build a relational community in one day. It’s every day. 180 days. #MasteryChat
A2. I like sitting down with the Ss and having them help make the rules or norms in the classroom with their voices. It gives them more ownership! Demonstrating empathy, and modelling situations is essential! #masterychat
A2 This is an easy one for me. My international students more often than not are the ones asking me about the rules. They want to know what is ok and what is not. Our system is so different from what they are used to. For example Ss going to the teachers. #masterychat
A2~
We’ll create rules/norms together during our first few days together ~ & continue to tweek as the year moves on~ flexibility, joint effort & transparency is so important 😊
#masterychat
A2: I think it is a great idea to have each class come with their own social contract & sign it as a class. The teacher can provide 3-4 big class rules & let the students create their own. It provides ownership and the kids keep each other accountable. #MasteryChat
A2 We use RC so all of our “rules” are generated so that we can learn best. They all fall into 3 categories- safe, responsible and respectful. There is a lot of modeling what it looks like and sounds like during the first 6 weeks and we review often. #masterychat
A2: I use memes and gifs (surprise) to make it memorable. I might find a funny gif of the rule being broken. I love hearing them talk about the memes and gifs in between slides. #masterychat
A2: I think it is a great idea to have each class come up with their own social contract & sign it together. The teacher can provide 3-4 big class rules & let the students create their own. It provides ownership and the kids keep each other accountable. #MasteryChat
A2 I set up big posters with my ground rules (be safe, respectful, responsible) and kids walk around writing what they think that should look like in our class. That way they get a voice and the foundations are covered.
#masterychat
A2: The “norms” of a traditional classroom may be quite different from a natural critical learning environment. Goal would be to build that type of environment with the Ss. #MasteryChat
A2- I took a course this summer and plan to create a social contract with each of my blocks so that we all have a part of what our class looks like and what we stand for. #MasteryChat
A2: 1st Establish rapport, then make sure their voice is heard. We talk about the reason there are rules. Review class established ones & discuss others. Finally focus on the fact , we are a school family and we build one another up, never break each other down. #MasteryChat
A2: Ask the students for their input. By allowing students to suggest or even create some rules and procedures themselves we empower them and are more likely to gain their trust. #masterychat
A2: open circle discussion about what rules mean to them. What happens when rules aren’t followed. How to model good rules. Then make 5 non negotiable. #MasteryChat
A2: I believe that the rules should be the same for all classes. The stability helps the students feel more confident with the rules. Don't make 20 rules. Keep them short, sweet, and to the point! #MasteryChat
A2. Having Ss create rules based on the function of the class is great, but that all depends on the grade level. Start with a few things to encourage, such as be kind to each other, listen to your peers, etc. 1st graders need scaffolding before they can create rules #masterychat
A2: As the instructional leader, lead by example and set the pace. Include everyone in the SBDM process and value and respect each other’s opinions. #MasteryChat
A2: Not sure Day 2 will be. Different this year b/c I will be in PD. Looking for ideas to continue learning or activities together even though I'm not there.
#MasteryChat
A3-Student led conferences! Parents love them and I have had so many tell me that they like coming in and hearing from their students and then they can come to us if they have questions. #masterychat
A3. Tech helps a lot with connecting parents to work or feedback, but it doesn’t always involve them in the process. Inviting parents into your classroom instantly gets them involved, especially when their background or experience can influence your lessons #masterychat
A3: We utilize technology! Social media, emails, texts, phone calls. We also use newsletters and classroom memos to reach our parents. We include what’s going on, resources to help at home, and encourage them to participate in upcoming events by constant invites. #MasteryChat
A3: I send home a parent survey, asking them how they view their child as a learner and as a child. I am also asking if they have any talents, expertise, or hobbies they would like to share with the ss. Would love to see some parents in my room this year!!! #Masterychat
A3: I think this is hard for high school teachers to make those connections; because parents are a lot less involved. I think positive emails home, and creating those open lines of communication are key. Any other suggestions to get parents more involved in HS? #masterychat
A3: I have open house on Sunday, and my principal said that teachers have to secretly give the parents a piece of chalk so that they could write a message for their kid on the blacktop outside. I plan on using @RemindHQ to communicate with parents. #masterychat
A3: We have families from 48 countries so there are so many opportunities to learn about the different cultures that make up our school community. We try and invite them to read folktales and talk about where they are from. #masterychat
A3
Compassion: What might this parent be struggling with?
Perspective-taking: What are this parent’s values?
Self-compassion: What am I struggling with?
Selfing: What are my values?
Connecting: What do we have in common? How can we support each other and the student?
#MasteryChat
By focusing on the people... and not the rules. Ultimately, what drives successful classroom and faculties, is the mutual respect that is earned through relationships. Yeah... relationships will always trump rules. #MasteryChat
A3: Meet them where they are.
Welcome them.
Partner with them.
Don't judge or make assumptions.
Multiple methods of communication.
Share the positives.
Love their kids.
#MasteryChat
A3. Sharing pics with Parents when they pick Ss up, having Ss explain activities for the day to them and show what projects they worked on. Sharing pics on social media to tell our story! #masterychat
A3: We just started using @heromatters which allows our parents to get real-time push notifications to their phones for student behaviors, from being tardy to class, to showing Cougar PRIDE (picking up trash, being respectful, etc.) not to mention parent nights! #MasteryChat
#masterychat - A3 - A beginning of the year letter to be signed and returned is a must. Also, a mass email introducing yourself the first week is a must as well. I am also going to use @seesaw for Ss to create portfolios to share with parents this year.
A3: As a student teacher, I really want to send newsletters home to parents each week to update them on what's going on in the classroom, perhaps via email. Also call home or email families when a student displays excellent behavior #MasteryChat
A3: I’m sending home a parent questionnaire this year asking Ps to tell me their child’s strengths, what motivates them, what areas they would like to see growth, etc. They are the experts on their kids, so I would like to hear their perspective #MasteryChat
A3: I use the remind app for important events and assignments for parents. Parents are able to login with Ss into Google Classroom to see their work. I would like to add a class Istagram or FB. #masterychat
I agree with the positive emails home. I received one four years ago, and I have it saved on my email. It is one that I re-read, and because of that email, that teacher has impacted my life more than she will ever know. #masterychat
A3: I think this is hard for high school teachers to make those connections; because parents are a lot less involved. I think positive emails home, and creating those open lines of communication are key. Any other suggestions to get parents more involved in HS? #masterychat
A3 Last year I introduced @Seesaw and it was the best decision I’ve made in a long time. Families were engaging in real time. Ss had an audience. It is a great tool for communication and families were always in the loop academically #masterychat
A3I collect parent emails and create a list serve. Send weekly updates as to what's happening in class...send links, photos, etc so that parents have a good idea of what's going on. #masterychat
A3: I plan on doing a BINGO activity worksheet where students/guardians can complete tasks given. They all pertain to some aspect of math class or the community. This is my first year doing it so I’m hoping it works out! I plan on giving them out at BTS night. #masterychat
A2: ask what is important and how rules should be worded.... make them together. And, make sure they are in everyone’s native language. It’s important to beware of intercultural relationships #MasteryChat
#masterychat I think the key to answering this is also involvement. Sending newsletters of what they did or what they will do doesn’t characterize actual involvement in the learning. It’s a fancier way of sending home an assignment book with grades on it, so let’s go deeper.
A3~
Home visits before school starts, friendly handwritten note if they are not home left for them, weekly shout outs to Families to celebrate all that is good w/the Ss... classroom twitter page @MrsBemis44 is a huge hit with families all year~ supports community
#masterychat
A3: Saw this on Twitter the other day and sent it to my parents today. I’m already getting so many amazing responses. I added a 3rd Q: What is one piece of advice you would give your child to begin his or her high school journey. Will read the advice to the classes. #MasteryChat
A3: Share your Google Classroom calendar with them! I used to post mine on my teacher website. It automatically updates whenever you post in Google Classroom. #masterychat
A3: As a parent of 2 elementary school students, I’d love to be asked about how my children learn, their reactions to failure, or their preferences. Sort of like a “learner inventory” that only a parent could provide. #MasteryChat
A3: weekly announcements for things happening in the classroom. Monthly newsletters. A google classroom page updated daily. Twitter and trying @seesaw this year #masterychat
A3
Compassion: What might this parent be struggling with?
Perspective-taking: What are this parent’s values?
Self-compassion: What am I struggling with?
Selfing: What are my values?
Connecting: What do we have in common? How can we support each other and the student?
#MasteryChat
Open lines of communication are definitely key! Parents at all levels need to know they are welcome & that Ts are available if they want to check what's happening in the classroom or what their child says is happening! #masterychat
I work in SpEd and one of my Ss is nonverbal. We started using @Seesaw to open up communication and show parents a small piece of the S's life at school. They were so excited to see him in class interacting with peers and engaging with learning.
#masterychat
We have different ( to get to know ) activities :( student interest survey)
( find a friend Bingo ) and show kindness and talk about good things in their friends , teachers
Ss write sweet notes to those who were teaching them
#masterychat
A3: I keep up with former students. You never know when siblings will walk in your classroom. I love the smiles of siblings that say, "I know you. My brother/sister said you're nice." #masterychat
A3 - As an Intervention Specialist, I stay in close contact with parents and other stakeholders. First thing I send home is an introduction letter and REMIND app sign up. I try to make myself available through as many avenues as I can. #MasteryChat
A3: We have a strong parental involvement program through our Title 1 funds & parental liaison staff. Our school always welcomes our parents & are encouraged to visit us. We offer ESL, computer, parenting skills, crafts, and other classes to our parents at no cost. #MasteryChat
A3: Early in the year, I have my Ss share our syllabus with their parents, sign a letter of understanding and take a selfie with their parents and the letter which they submit. Throughout the year I always use parents to help brainstorm solutions to help kids achieve #MasteryChat
A3: I sent this note out last year. I had the privilege of showing up for some of my kids outside of school. I loved it! Bc of this I had the opportunity to develop stronger relationships w their parents & show them we were on the same team! #Masterychat
A3 I send out emails several times a week, student led conferences, I use @BloomzApp and @Seesaw. My team and I also do workshops for our parents to help parents see what their babies are learning and answer questions. #MasteryChat
A2: I’m a big fan of being creative in the classroom. For basic rules/expectations I think the best way is to let the students have a voice. With that being said, some clear guidelines have to be set- respect, do your best, work hard. #MasteryChat
A3: #MasteryChat This year I am using @Seesaw in math for parent communication & student portfolios with formative assessments. I also use @BloomzApp to share our STEM learning & as a virtual backpack of info & reminders!
A3 It begins with an orientation for new Officers at the Naval War College. I get to meet the parents during the summer, then again during our ELL placement testing. By the time open house comes we are on a first name basis. Makes it easier for the rest of the year. #masterychat
A3 Since we are 1:1 at the high school level...Hoping to host a Parent Chromebook Academy to introduce parents to freshmen Ss using devices in the classroom... #masterychat
A3 Use @RemindHQ@ClassDojo@Seesaw Share school hashtags & invite parents to tweet about extra curricular activities around the community host parent nights for tech a new reading series or talk about the good things happening at school involve them in everything! #masterychat
I had the students create a hashtag for every class. We took suggestions on @nearpod collaborate and then the students "voted" for their favorite by hitting the heart/like button! So much fun. I also didn't take pictures of student faces. Have fun with it! :) #masterychat
A3: As a high school teacher there are lots of opportunities to connect with parents at events such as football games, band competitions, or other extracurricular activities. Great way to make positive connections with parents! #masterychat
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
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#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
A4 - Never judge, focus on solutions and help however you can! We are all in this together, with the same goal REACH ALL STUDENTS! no one can do it alone...we need to stick together and THRIVE together! #masterychat
A4 - I was new to the building last year, I am a foodie so there was a lot of food in room 101 of the homemade baked variety by yours truly. Day 1 and I have already been asked many times! Food brings everyone together #MasteryChat
A4: Welcome Back to School Social & Posting of Pics on our School Website - establishing a sense of community - helping one another along the way! #MasteryChat
A4 We have a meet and greet before school starts that many staff attend. Also there is an admin at every entrance greeting families as students enter. #masterychat
A4: We have worked real hard the past two weeks to build up Ts excitement for the new year. Going off of that, we have prepped them with strategies to utilize in the classroom. Ensure that all Ts are ready to make it the best day ever for Ss! #MasteryChat
A4: Find a mentor and buddy up! Share resources, ideas, and collaborate! It is important that Ts, admins, parents, and Ss all work together to establish a positive learning environment and community #MasteryChat
A4. This year, we are welcoming students with everyone in the district wearing the same t-shirt. It says “What’s your why?” Our response is on the shirts #HTWP4kids because we are all here for the kids. Everyone gets a shirt, bus drivers, custodians, aides. Everyone! #masterychat
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
#masterychat - A4 - I am starting a new position as a Math Instructional Coach, so I want to start off the year in PLC right. I just bought these books to properly form a learning community with my teachers:
Learning by Doing - A handbook for PLCs
https://t.co/xRty1QVJZu
A4: I asked my Principals to choose one or two from this article from @edutopia to do with faculty and/or students next week. Can't wait to see what they come up with! https://t.co/Qm8x6eIGFl#masterychat
#masterychat A2 I love #capturingkidshearts way where the Ss develop the standards for proper conduct, then they all sign it. My 1st rule since I started teaching has been #AlwaysBelieve in Yourself, AND IT WORKS! I even wrote a book! Coming out this fall!
A4: Our district Admin Team is visiting each building during the first work day - holding an informal meet and greet and passing out ice cream. I'm looking forward to chatting with staff. #MasteryChat
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
A4: We have a school bulletin on Google. We stay in touch that way. We also are present in the hallways. Since I am not a classroom teacher, I make myself available to help when and where I can. #masterychat
A3 Our team calls home for both good and bad, sends positive post cards home, class dojo, welcoming letter inviting to call anytime, Meet the Teacher Night, Team website, conferences #masterychat
A4: Today we celebrate classes where ALL students were on time! Using @heromatters has been great for getting the kids to class! We broadcasted live over the intercept from the classes we were in! Kids got donuts for being where they need to be ON TIME. Who is next? #MasteryChat
A4. On opening day for Ts we have a huge brunch together. We meet new Ts and staff and then we set up a time to talk to each other and reflect. Our first week lunches are also a great time to just talk. #masterychat
A1: I would like to mix it up this year and I’m not sure how. Last year I did seating challenges, but most of my classes have been together before (and in my room) so we just dive into “what’s changed” type conversations. #MasteryChat
A4: great leaders ensure that their whole school shares the same vision. @wmirvinelem admin team has done an awesome job with this. They showed this video to encourage us to block out the haters and LOVE our kids! #masterychathttps://t.co/NzalrGF6NA
A4: In my Ed Tech, I’m really careful to meet Ts where they are - and then push them forward. I invite admins into my room all the time to see what we’re doing and trying. #masterychat
A4: Many schools have large turnovers, so its important to find your positive teacher tribe! Enlist positive people to help support eachother, and offer support to those negative nellies who need it most! Need more support: Twitter!!! :) #masterychat
A4: At the school where I work at, the staff is really working hard to be as prepared as possible and welcome the students with open arms. I am so grateful to be at the school I am at because every teacher asks me how I am doing and truly cares. #masterychat
A4 One year, all faculty & staff drew one-minute self portraits in crayon on index cards. We taped all the cards together and hung up the “quilt.” It was fun to learn a little about each other that way. #MasteryChat
A4. Have Ss participate in team building activities. Where ss must collaborate and work together to solve a problem. It allows them to get to know one another, to lead, , share ideas, help one another, etc. #masterychat
A4 It just takes being positive daily...Every time you run into something negative, it's an opportunity to make it that much more positive...already started training Choir Ts on @GoogleForEdu they never had anyone take the time for them...it was awesome #masterychat
Our amazing principal @SomerhalderTCHS had the staff do a Goose Chase through the school. Pretty awesome experience. Now I’m working with my librarian to do a student Goose Chase for the library. #MasteryChat
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
#masterychat A3 My mentor taught in a rural district 40+ years ago. He had parent nights to preview the week's lessons so the Ps/Gs would understand the topics better when their children would ask questions. Also, hold showcase events for Ps/Gs to enjoy their children's work.
A4: last year during our PD our @sourcesstrength advisors (@mrsegall and @5hank51) promoted some team building & identifying strengths within our lives to remember when we might be stressed or down. It was a great way to communicate with others & build relationships. #masterychat
When exploring how parents feel about the education of their children, consider Louise Gluck’s poem “The School Children” https://t.co/Wfydpkhrm4. #MasteryChat
A4: Our staff is one happy and goofy family and we love our students and parents. I always encourage positive and strong relationships between teachers and parents. As the principal I have to lead by example and I’m always happy and try to make our school fun. #masterychat
A4 We all make a point to be visible for all Ss on the first weeks of school. We also made the decision to all do class meetings this year, which I love! #masterychat
A4: Today we celebrated classes where ALL students were on time! Using @heromatters has been great for getting the kids to class! We broadcasted live over the intercept from the classes we were in! Kids got donuts for being where they need to be ON TIME. Who is next? #MasteryChat
A4 Coffee cart photo opp area small giveaways Tweet of the Week featuring various staff members Daily shout-outs during announcements notes in mailboxes inspirational quotes around the school AND on the faculty RR stalls/mirrors/walls! https://t.co/3F4mQJeuY4#masterychat
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
A4 treat every child like they were your own. Before you worry about content take the time to learn names & get to know the kids & the adults in your building. My summer reading - binder with all 657 student names & photos so I can learn everyone’s name #masterychat
A4: been known to bring in bagels to share w/ dept. hard to connect with everyone in first few weeks of school. Looking for ways to do that further
#MasteryChat
It’s important to make the first call a good one. I love to call home at random to say how great they are doing or to share a moment in class. Parents appreciate the goodness and are willing to be open, trust. I also love #Remind It keeps my classroom close to home. #MasteryChat
A2: In the past, I’ve had Ss talk about what a great classroom looks like, sounds like, & feels like. I’d like to do this again taking it a step further having them create the class rules supporting this vision. Next Ss create memes of the procedures that we’ll use. #MasteryChat
I plan to have them do it first day of class. I think. trying to figure it all out. I know a few of my students since we just finished #HSE2018 for incoming freshmen.
#MasteryChat
I’ve heard awesome things about @Seesaw. I’m hoping to get it set up for the beginning of the year. A few of my teachers have told me they are doing it. #MasteryChat
In reply to
@Mkrenzer20, @Seesaw, @BloomzApp, @Seesaw
A4: Our team came together to greet the students as they arrived by bus and car at our HS. Was very uplifting to see hundreds of students greeted by our staff. #MasteryChat
A3: I have a weekly grade conference where Ss update their parents on their progress that allows for two way comments. This year I would like Ss to create a weekly newsletter for parents. #MasteryChat
I would have to go find a few links. But @JayShettyIW has some amazing videos of inspiration that transcend education. They are about life and how we should try to live it. Love his videos! #masterychat
A5: I always loved this video: https://t.co/02S4b0Rcpl
Rose explains that there is no average. This is a great way to start the conversation that we all have gifts, we are all geniuses we just need to find out how to reach those things! #masterychat
A4(2): At our school when our freshman come in for the first day orientation, they are assigned an advisement teacher to take them through the process and play games with them while they wait in line to do logistics. Those advisers have their students for four years. #MasteryChat
I am beyond inspired by all of you and feel prepared for the first day after reading all your responses. I cannot wait to meet my amazing kiddos who will hold a special place in my heart. #masterychat
A5 Vid of guy dancing alone at a music fest & gradually everyone joins him Shows Ss the power of 1 & how to be an influencer by being themselves & taking a risk #masterychathttps://t.co/1uUdq0EkzE
#masterychat A4 I bring the famous #Believe sign to school on the 1st day. My coworkers and other Ss can come to my room to get their #BelieveSelfie The picture could go on the wall!
A5: THIS! The Time You Have https://t.co/fn0WCoEc2d
Absolutely is must for students. Or anyone really. Watch it. Re-watch it. Play it again in six months. Go watch it... now!
#MasteryChat
A2-We do something similar creating “essential agreements” in our classroom. The kids decide what our class should, look, sound and feel like. This year they even decided that when someone doesn’t follow the agreements they would like to handle it first. Progress.. #masterychat
A4: #masterychat Positivity begins with me! My smile, my encouraging words, my kind actions make a difference to my teacher tribe! I also like to give occasional small gifts to my team, and post fun memes & encouraging quotes in the teacher bathroom!
Anytime a student is absent, other students will have copies of notes ready for that student when they return to class. We like the students to know that others are thinking of them even when they are not there #masterychat
It’s important to make the first call a good one. I love to call home at random to say how great they are doing or to share a moment in class. Parents appreciate the goodness and are willing to be open, trust. I also love #Remind It keeps my classroom close to home. #MasteryChat
A4: My colleagues and I meet very other week to chat about Ss and how we can best support them as a team. We also do a lot of cross-curricular planning that models collaboration. We also do scholwide spirit competitions to help build community. #MasteryChat
#masterychat Q4 Great teams support their players. How can you involve all members of your school team to build positive relationships during the first week of school?
A5: Not so much an inspiration video, but I like to give myself pep talks to get me ready. Typically it's along the lines of that scene from "She's the Man" "I'm a badass hdunky dude!" #masterychat
A5: this will forever be a favorite!! I can listen to her speak and will always walk away inspired no matter how many times I hear it! #Masterychathttps://t.co/phnUPmOf50
A5: We all know this from America’s favorite teacher, the great Jaime Escalante. Students will rise to the level of expectations we set for them. #masterychat
A5: one of my favorite videos. I played this on Opening day to the entire district faculty. I was Teacher Union President at the time. https://t.co/ri4kpEvPAC#MasteryChat
A5: Excellent discussion of positive psychology that can affect any learning or work-related environment— Shawn Achor https://t.co/h9RUpQZibD#MasteryChat
#masterychat A2: Let your students create the rules (or at least help with the creation). If they feel ownership they are more likely to feel they are relevant.
A5 I teach in an urban district where we are prejudged by others as being or going nowhere. I show a video where the person is prejudged by the way they look but performs above expected and changed their opinion of them. I equate this to what the students can do. #masterychat
A5: Coming from a middle school/ junior high perspective, kids can be really mean to each other. I think this video is so powerful of helping one another! https://t.co/FCGOEwmjlM#masterychat
A6: Self cafe, prioritize most important to important, keep the team happy so they keep you happy. Establish trust and respect from the get go! #MasteryChat
A6- Always smile, stay positive even when the world is crumbling, focus on solutions (not problems) and Keep moving forward! Kids react to what they see modeled. Be their example. #masterychat
A6:
1. Laugh a lot - everything is so much better when I stop taking myself seriously.
2. Always change things up. I like routines and consistency, but I like unexpected twists even more! #masterychat
A6. I love that we have our staff vs Ss Pilo Polo game in February. The entire school comes together to battle the staff in the district’s favorite PE unit. The timing of the event showcases Ss and allows kids to see their T’s break a sweat. It’s energy times 💯 #masterychat
A6: Is like to build in more mindfulness this year. I teach Middle School so I think it’s crucial. I try to offer Ss lots of choice to help them stay feeling empowered and proud of their work in our class. #MasteryChat
I like to see 1:1 at our school. No, not 1 computer for every student - at least 1 caring adult contacting 1 parent/guardian of EVERY single 1 of our students w/good news. It may b the only positive thing that student or parent hears all day #masterychat
A6: Kids feed off the Ts energy. Be the most energetic every day and you don’t need a knuckle ball. Fast balls all day every day like Bartolo “Big Sexy” Colon. #RangerNation#MasteryChat
A6: engage in self-care! It's important to relax, de-stress, and spend time with family and friends! This will make you stronger and more engaged with your Ss. #MasteryChat
A6: hang out outside of school!! Our team has decided to make this a priority. With all the craziness of school, it’s nice to just be adults enjoying each other’s company sometimes. #Masterychat
A6: I’d like to build in more mindfulness this year. I teach Middle School so I think it’s crucial. I try to offer Ss lots of choice to help them stay feeling empowered and proud of their work in our class. #MasteryChat
A6 Keep a positive vibe, surround yourself with positive people, practice a "no tech hour (or 2)" when you go home at night, take care of YOU with a walk or dinner with a friend or a special dessert, whatever it takes, just keep smiling! #masterychat
A6: Staying healthy and positive. Always go to work with a smile on your face. Do something fun or relaxing over the weekend to decompose. Also, having some “me” time. #MasteryChat
Finding fun ways to engage my Ss in learning always keeps me energized & enthusiastic. When my Ss are engaged & enjoying learning, I am loving life as the T who helps provide that passion. When Ss come in eager to find out what we will do today, I am pumped! #masterychat
A6 Personally, family time and veg out time. In the class, I love to change things up with different activities, stay connected with my Ss and keep the learning relevant to them. #masterychat
A6: At the end of the day you have to remian focused. Keep it all about the students. If you let the other noise influence your day to day, you are going to burn out. Keep the eye on the prize, with the prize being #StudentsFirst#masterychat
A6: Waking up every day with a smile and remembering my philosophy for teaching: If I can make even the smallest of difference in every child’s life who enters my classroom, then I’m doing my job. #masterychat
A6~Surround myself with these kind of people
supportive
Authentic
Honest
Push you to be the best version of yourself
Others who will show up when the going is good¬ so good
&most importantly, always do right & just things for Ss ~ no excuses 👍 #masterychat
This year, my content is not changing. I am trying the grid method with my lessons. I need to empower the students and let them know they are part of the class. I think when I see the students engaged this year, it will bring what I need to keep going. #masterychat
A6 Connecting with postive colleagues both in real life and in PLN on Twitter. Having our annual International Festival that involves the whole school community is something we always look forward to. #masterychat
#masterychat A5 Two of my fav videos are Andrea Gardner's The Power of Words & an Asian commercial - Veggie Soup. The first deals with a blind beggar's change of fortune when someone rewards his sign. The second deals with the value of paying it forward. Great for BTS Night too.
I jumped in late, but Hacking Classroom Management lines up with all the ideas here tonight. Plus, the Kindle Version has tons of videos clips with it! Might be worth checking out!
https://t.co/WN2oqn4GC4#masterychat
A6~Surround myself with these kind of people
supportive
Authentic
Honest
Push you to be the best version of yourself
Others who will show up when the going is good¬ so good
&most importantly, always do right & just things for Ss ~ no excuses 👍 #masterychat
A6 part 2: remember that it’s okay to leave teaching at school once in a while and read, bike, enjoy my hobbies and be me. Remember strength comes from others not just me, and it’s okay to rely on them. #MasteryChat
Thanks group and @HillMrispo for a great chat! Favorite Thursday activity! Great connections made! Hope to see you all at #waledchat at 9pm. (Less than a minute away) with @MrPStrunk#MasteryChat
A6: Remember the WHY that brought you to the teaching profession. Keep questioning that WHY until it’s a finely-tuned instrument that provides the background music for everything you do. https://t.co/u7yyJXFVya#MasteryChat
