This is the official Twitter account for #OklaEd, thehashtag that brings OK educators together. #OklaEd is not political & promotes constructive dialogue.
Becki Maldonado - English teacher - Emerson HS - “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela #OKLAED
My name is Merleyn Bell. I’m the Democratic nominee for House District 45. My favorite quote: “I believe that a child going without an education is a crime.” - @KamalaHarris#oklaed
Scott with @usaodrovers, Director of Instructional Tech.
Fav quote: if you teach how you were taught, you are teaching to your past, not your students future
#oklaed
Steve Gilliland, Del City High School Asst. Principal #oklaed The best part of teaching is that it matters. The hardest part of teaching is that is matters everyday @ToddWhitaker
Todd Gragg, History Educator at Midwest City High School "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world" - Nelson Mandela #oklaed#MDubLearns
Debbie Thoreson, P of 3rd grader, T of English 3 & AP, Dewey High School #oklaed "The aim of education is the knowledge not of facts but of values." William Ralph Inge
Stacy Ford—Teacher-Librarian in Norman. Fav quote at the moment would be a passage from a book called How To Steal A Dog that I’m currently reading with 4th Graders. #oklaed
A1: I've implemented a "Why we're doing this" portion in each lesson to help students understand that they are suffering through tough language so they can do the same with a loan application, for example. #oklaed
Seth, principal with @MoorePublicSch “The great teacher is not the man who supplies the most facts, but the one in whose presence we become different people”. -Emerson #oklaed
A1 - I spend a lot of time at the beginning of the year fostering authentic relationships - that is more important than practicing procedures. I want my classroom to have a positive climate that makes failure normal & supports growth. #oklaed
A1 it has to be about showing up everyday knowing the importance of our calling. Teaching our Ss to stand up to the injustices surrounding them #oklaed
A1) admin: Don’t punish teachers for advocating. Work together to collaborate for the good of the school community. Work with your professional organizations, not against them. #oklaed
A1) I took a brilliant cue from @Jess5th and asked my Ss to examine what are rules and when can/should we break them before we created rules for our classroom. We identified who we are, our purpose, and our expectations for the year just in the 1st week. #oklaed
A1- I believe that you need to have a positive and safe environment. It is also important for the students to know what they are learning, and why they are learning it. #oklaed
A1: I try to bring enthusiasm to everything I teach, If I don't believe in it, how can my Ss? This is our journey together we have to aim for success #oklaed
A1 Sometimes that is a challenge. First you must establish the value of education and why it is worth advocating for, fighting for, defending. We must see the value and make sure others see it. #oklaed
My favorite educational quote (one of them, anyway): "Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." #oklaed
Passion - passion for our students, for our school, for our subject matter, for our teaching practice. You ever not wanted to advocate for something you are passionate about? Share that with your students!
#Oklaed
A1: Give teachers a voice without acting like it’s a punishment. Encourage them to participate and give them resources to do so. That shows students that they are encouraged to do so as well. #OklaEd#GetInvolved
A1 EVERY DAY...building relationships, listening, take time to understand their perspective....give them opportunity to do all of the above with others in our class. #oklaed
Jennifer Newkirk LMS at Deer Creek in Edmond. Little late but I’m here. Fav quote = “ There is no such thing as someone who doesn’t like to read, only someone who is reading the wrong book.” #OklaEd
A1 Sometimes seeing the best in the students sitting right in front of you, especially when they don't see it themselves, is the best way to advocate for them. Sometimes, you're battling that negative voice in their heads. #oklaed
A1 admin should model advocacy & encourage active participation but also must create a bubble for the kids in the school preventing the political problems from affecting what we do for the kids #oklaed
A1: it doesn't stop with those four walls though! teaching students to advocate for and speak up for themselves is key! get them charged up and ready to be their own champions! #oklaed
A2 Not only do I tell them that they are capable of succeeding, but I will give them every chance to do so, even if I have to hunt them down in school to get them to redo an assignment. It amazes me how surprised some kids are when they succeed. #oklaed
A-1 I channel the advocacy in everything thing I do. I'm all about the business of students learning to read and learning how to learn. I stress that it will be a lot of work, but I have faith in their success. #Oklaed
I try to teach my students how to advocate for themselves. My students are K-3rd, and they are used to problems being solved for them. I want them to know they have to power to make a difference. This skill will help them advocate in other areas. #oklaED
A2 - I do an activity called “The Fail Test” to demonstrate that failing should be celebrated because it’s part of growth. Ss are under so much pressure to perform and I want my classroom to be a space where mistakes are part of the process. #oklaed
Julia Kirt, OKCPS parent & candidate Senate District 30. “Let us tenderly and kindly cherish therefore, the means of knowledge. Let us dare to read, think, speak, and write.” – John Adams #oklaed
A2: I'm all about high expectations. I tell my students the first day that they only put the smart kids in my class so if they are there, it's because they can handle it! And then I set them up for success with scaffolding and praise...we don't fail, we push through #oklaed
A2: students learn best from people who they like and they KNOW like them back. so many kids get told no. they get told what they can and can't do. i don't want to be just another adult in their lives telling them 'no'. #oklaed
A2 - This year I am seeking to help my students not fear failure but to see it as a chance to get better and improve. I am also seeking to create authentic learning through mastery over the grading game. #oklaed#MDubLearns
A2 make sure all adults understand that all students belong and deserve the education they are there to get. Students have to know they are expected to excel and held accountable to those goals. #oklaed
A2: Being an every day advocate for each student means ensuring every student can see themselves in your lessons, in your classroom library, in your conversations. They feel seen, heard, valued. It's my job to make sure all 25 students feel like I am their biggest fan. #oklaed
A2: it's about instilling this truth inside your walls that each students excels in something. Building motors, designing dresses, art, poetry, math. Believe it, know it, teach it, and watch them transform. We value each other #oklaed
#OklaEd A1: By helping our students understand the importance of what I call the optimized overall learning experience. I of course tried to do that as a university faculty member but the earlier this message is advocated the better.
A2) Building those relationships and letting them know you care. Ss will achieve more when they know someone cares and wants to help and see them succeed. #oklaed
A2) Recognize that their struggle is real. Don’t diminish it or just tell them to have some grit. Build the relationship so that they desire to succeed in your class or school. Help them to find their passion. Let them fail and try again. #oklaed
A2: Sometimes all it takes is the belief that they can do it and the patience to let them succeed. Often it then takes a few reminders along the way and some positive feedback - or not accepting less than their best. #oklaed
I used to spend the first week of school doing team building. Each day teams would change. It made a huge difference in how well the students worked together. #oklaed
I would constantly remind my students that they are capable of doing incredible things if they put their minds to it. Constantly encouraging them and making them feel good about themselves. #oklaed
A2: Well, the LMC is a little bit of a different vibe-our whole goal is to give all Ss access to what they need to succeed. I also work with Ts across the bldg to develop critical thinking projects so their Ss can shine. #oklaed
A2 Growth Mindset...let them know we all make mistakes, mistakes are part of the process! Provide opportunities to explore, create, collaborate...PLAY! #oklaed
A2. Q’s like this always get me. I don’t do anything special. I just listen to my S’s. About their day, their life, & etc. When I do this, they know I believe in them. I am honest &tell it how it is. I encourage them when they are down. And praise them when they do good. #OklaEd
Agree with this, adults must create a safe culture for students to take risks that may lead to failure . One time of that F being permanent can destroy their trust . #oklaed
A2 make sure all adults understand that all students belong and deserve the education they are there to get. Students have to know they are expected to excel and held accountable to those goals. #oklaed
A2: I bring in authors and role models that have failed in big ways and have overcome huge deficits, abuse and defeat and rose up anyway like @DrMayaAngelou#stillirise#OklaEd
A2: My students need to be seen during snack time. If you don't ever adhere to an allergy that student feels as if you don't value them, or you don't see them. I have a student that can't have gelatin bc of a religious issue, so it's my job to provide approp snack. #oklaed
A2) It's not just relaying that vision to students. It's important for Ts & Ps to help Ps know how to build esteem/value. Not the everyone gets a trophy kind...but the way to talk and interact with kids that helps them feel positive about their abilities, dreams, etc. #OklaEd
A3 - The majority of the literature my Ss read is by minority authors. Most of their schooling consists of dead white guys. I can’t hook them on reading if they don’t read stories by authors who look like them. #oklaed
Awesome! I do the same thing. Any time a S says they're not smart enough about something, I tell them they made it to my class so they have already proven they're ready for the work! #oklaed
A2. For me, it’s about being the professional educator that chooses tools, strategies, and interventions based on what I know works whether it be through personal experience or research based best practices. #oklaed
A3: Creating reading groups and rewarding students with "points" once they have read and tested over a book really helps to get the students reading and excited to read. #oklaed
Welcome again Senator Thompson🍎!! You warned us that we wouldn’t be able to get rid of you!! I am glad we can’t! See you tomorrow for coffee, can’t wait to hear more of your funding ideas! #oklaed
A3 We focus a lot on independent reading: Respecting student choices of reading material, encouraging them to find out who they are as readers and encouraging them to grow in that awareness. #oklaed#rethinkela
It's funny how often student accountability is NOT mentioned when it comes to high achievement. It's one thing for teachers to believe it, but the students must hold up their end of the deal.
Thanks for including this in your answer.
#OklaEd
A2) Everyday advocacy is when we practice consistently what we preach. As admin, we can know our Ss and hold them to high expectations while recognizing where their starting point is. #Oklaed
In our house, we have the three B’s - brush teeth, book, bed. This places an emphasis on how important reading is! This also allows us time each day to explore a new book. #OklaEd
A3 - The majority of the literature my Ss read is by minority authors. Most of their schooling consists of dead white guys. I can’t hook them on reading if they don’t read stories by authors who look like them. #oklaed
A3 - This year for my AP US History classes I have replaced traditional bell work with a writing journal and am using random prompts to get Ss writing. Starting next week every Thursday after our quiz will be student choice reading day. #oklaed#MDubLearns
A4) I teach English so this is a daily thing. I have my own classroom library that is full of diverse books from picture books to graphic novels to novels. No matter what reading level they are at they have a book that has characters that are like them or interest them #oklaed
A3) we are using Microsoft’s Learning tools such as Immersive Reader so struggling readers can enjoy literacy with less stress @MPSTechnology It’s not perfect but getting there 😃#oklaed
A3: Well, I teach English, so I'm all about advocacy. But this year we've also looked at some graphs and charts and talked about math and science so my Ss recognize that the "subjects" all run together in real life. #oklaed
A3. Literacy means strong reading comprehension, but I think it also means being Internet literate. Knowing what’s real, what’s fake, and what’s just someone’s commentary. #oklaed
A3: I teach AP Biology, Pre-AP Biology and Biotech...I tell my Ss they have to read to succeed...20 minutes every night. I'm sure they don't do it...but when we discuss and they pull out sticky notes with questions, my heart just melts! #oklaed
A3) As a principal I try to always kids what book they chose at the library and ask why they like it. I didn’t love reading until I was an adult, so I want them to see that reading for pleasure is of utmost important. #oklaed
A3: reading takes you places. reading opens doors. reading is what lets you learn whatever you want to learn. STUDENT VOICE/CHOICE is the most important thing when building passions for literacy. give them access to all the books and let them go for it! #oklaed
Literacy is even more important in this day of fact equalling opinion. Age appropriate - help students to understand what is important, why, and how to tell fact from fiction. #oklaed
A3) As admin we can set the example for literacy by reading, talking about what we read, and encouraging regular literacy activities in classrooms. #Oklaed
A3: by seeing our students we also see when intervention is needed. Provide those interventions. Provide time for self selected reading. Have book talks to increase motivation. Take interest in their selected book. #oklaed
A3: I try to make sure that our collection represents them. Being able to see themselves, their experiences, is vital to their willingness to continue to learn. #oklaed
A1) Speak up in a professional manner, be knowledgeable about pertinent current events, discuss issues openly with staff, take advantage of opportunities to let your staff see you advocate in any way, and encourage them to advocate in their own way. #oklaED
We also sometimes have a massive misunderstanding of how to effectively hold kids accountable for their learning. That doesn’t mean they need to be in trouble, it means we will not allow apathy to take hold especially with at risk kids. #oklaed
It's funny how often student accountability is NOT mentioned when it comes to high achievement. It's one thing for teachers to believe it, but the students must hold up their end of the deal.
Thanks for including this in your answer.
#OklaEd
#OklaEd A2: Again, I was at the college level - where none of those issues were apparent among my students. Were I at the K-12 level, I would be obsessed with acknowledging the importance of and the input of diverse experiences and cultures into classroom activities.
A2 - I do an activity called “The Fail Test” to demonstrate that failing should be celebrated because it’s part of growth. Ss are under so much pressure to perform and I want my classroom to be a space where mistakes are part of the process. #oklaed
We talked a little about issue on Your Vote Counts today. As an advocate I try to push the idea that librarians are part of the learning process and student experience. Having school librarians area a great way to promote literacy and a love of reading. #oklaed
A3a I tell my kindergarten kiddos...we’re all readers! Some of us read words, or are starting to read words, some of us read pictures...we’re all at different places but that’s okay! #oklaed
Giving students little positions in the classroom helps to make students feel important. It gives them responsibility along with a sense of leadership. #oklaed
A4 We write every day in my classroom. I give them time to write junk, to dig through the junk for the gold, and the feedback to help them see the value in their stories. I do this by providing feedback, not labels. #OklaEd
A3) Our Ts all discussed the high levels of literacy and fluency needed for success on the ACT. Vocabulary for content and the words around the words will be a focus for us this year. #Oklaed
#oklaed A2 One of my goals is to meet new Ss and their parents as they enroll. Making a connection early and stating that we are a safe, supportive school with high expectations. Good for all.
A3b We read all kinds of books, about all different topics! Ss have the opportunity to read books to them selves and others. Ss are encouraged to write and tell their own stories. #oklaed
A4 we have to remember they are humans with feelings and opinions, even the hard ones! They can’t find their voice if we are just looking for compliance. Listen! #oklaed
A4. My whole class is about finding their own voice. Sometimes I have been to successful with it because they are loud (sorry @Biobellrocks 😭) but if they want to do something. We do it. I let them just go for it. #OklaEd
I teach special education. I want my students to be fully aware of their strengths and weaknesses and be able to communicate those. A part of my strategy is for my students participate in IEP meetings.#oklaED
A3: You can turn a book talk into a persuasive verbal talk. Doesn't always have to be on paper. Have them sell their book to their classmates. I love doing this. Convince me to read your book. #oklaed
A4: Socratic seminars have been key in my classes for helping Ss find their voices. Real world talk and work wakes them up to what they can and must do #OklaEd
A3 I teach reading to 1st grade students. I am all about literacy and all of its components. It is an essential skill to be successful in school and in today's society. I have some parents who cannot help their child read short CVC stories. Those kids need my extra help. #Oklaed
I’m lurking tonight. For some reason I can’t find my voice to answer the questions. I’ve tried to answer the first three questions and deleted each one. I guess it’s not my night. #oklaed
We do a lot of reflective writing in my classroom, too. Sometimes it's over a text, but it's also often over their own choices, both past and future. #OklaEd If we can learn from our mistakes, we can grow and avoid making them again.
A4: gonna be real here and say that you should TALK TO THEM. i think we get wrapped up in talking/teaching AT students and we don't take time to have conversations and find out who those kids in our classrooms really ARE. #oklaed
A3: As a teacher-librarian I focus on fostering a love of reading so that students become life long readers who want to read. Also, as a TL I’m one of a few people who get to inquire and see what students want to read. #oklaed
A1: Hi, Friends. Coming in late tonight, but I love this Q. To increase advocacy in our buildings, we must invite input from others. As admins, we can't make decisions in a vacuum. We need input from students, teachers, and community members. #oklaed@ShariGateley
A4 - I am implementing more PBL than ever this year and pulling back a lot of guidelines and restrictions to give my Ss much more say in their projects. #oklaed#MDubLearns
And not just talk to them, but also listen to them. I don't think I became a decent teacher until I started listening to my students. I'm still working on that... #OklaEd
A4) Teach them that having a voice doesn’t always mean opposing. It can also mean showing your support for something so they will learn it’s just as important to show gratitude. #oklaed
A3) My daughter didn't like and struggled with reading (my wife & I were the complete opposite). We struggled with how to reach her/help her. I never quit reading to her until I found the book that lit the fire. #OklaEd
A4) Give them an audience. The greatest singers have scratchy old recordings of them singing to their families. Voice is found when someone spends time listening! I still have the words Dr. Kirk wrote on my final college thesis 12 years ago...hanging in my classroom! #oklaed
A4: I'll be using some contests to help my Ss learn to use different voices for different audiences. My Ss also got to tell me what sounded interesting in the text, so I'll forgo some usual works to incorporate their choice. #oklaed
Anyone and everyone is welcome to my classroom at all times. I have a sign outside my door that says.. COME IN, WE ARE AWESOME! and I mean that! #oklaed
A4: I encourage everyone to participate in discussions and share their ideas and beliefs, it's difficult at first but as the family atmosphere grows throughout the year, participation grows too! #oklaed
We encourage our Ss to find their voice by being involved. If they feel a part of something they will be empowered to share their voice. If there isn’t a group we encourage them to make a new group. #Oklaed
We need to be supportive in IEP meetings but too often we create a false impression for parents. We must be respectful but we should be honest. A-f grade system supports this false perception. #oklaed
I teach special education. I want my students to be fully aware of their strengths and weaknesses and be able to communicate those. A part of my strategy is for my students participate in IEP meetings.#oklaED
A3: I prepare students to be information literate. That is to evaluate information for bias, determine authenticity of sources and prepare them for life. These skills enable students to be critical thinkers in regards to information they receive and produce. #oklaed
A5: Going out and being involved in your community helps a lot with gaining connections and allies with other people in the community. Going to different events and just talking to people does more than what you think! #oklaed
A5: PBL & advocacy align with my research project. S papers are scored by community members using a rubric the Ss help design before they begin their projects. #oklaed
A2: We have to let students know that failure doesn’t define you. Failing is at the precipice of any great success. We have to MODEL that ourselves. We have to let students lead/create in the classroom to succeed. #oklaed
A4 Ss have opportunityto display work/creations, share artwork, tell their stories...every Ss has opportunity to share, celebrate, and be celebrated! #oklaed
A4. Granted, there’s NO WAY I would’ve been able to do this in the past, but this year I’m picking out a line or two from students’ writing to include in a writer’s spotlight in a weekly newsletter to parents. #oklaed
A5: by welcoming them into my classroom. @EmilyVirginOK has visited, @jacobrosecrants is going to visit soon. (once we decide on a date) lol I have parents sign up to be mystery readers. I welcome everyone! #Oklaed
A5: Encouraging educators to get involved with community leaders, then inviting those leaders to speak in the classroom. I’m hoping to be able to speak to some Civics classes at NNHS on the importance of voting soon! #OklaEd
A5: twitter, reaching out to businesses for help; we need the man power, entering Ss into local, national, and global competitions. "See us!" We scream #oklaed
A5) Expressing the needs of your classroom publically, inviting the community to an open house, doing a community book drive, inviting business owners to the school, etc. #oklaED
On of the big ones is #oklaed chat! I l love that different people run it each week so you get different perspective. And great job tonight @ShariGateley!
A4) By being a model everyday for my child. Speaking out on issues, calling my legislators, reminding her to vote, discussing candidates and issues. If I'm not an advocate, how can I expect her to be one? #OklaEd
We didn’t have an active PTO, though our boosters are active. We are working to build community connections for internships and mentorships. We are also creating a PATHS team (Parent Advisory THS team). #Oklaed
A4: I talk with the Ss who come in, find out what they need/want and then try to get it for them. that shows them their voice matters. If they ask for a book, I get it. If they want something in the MakerSpace, I ask them to help me write the grant. #oklaed
I started by blogging. It let me get my voice out. It let me add pics/audio/video. It was more pliable than facebook/twitter. Blogging will let you tell your story. If you aren’t telling your story - someone else is.
#Oklaed
A5 - This is simple but I find much value in it, I stop and speak to my Ss parents whenever I see them at school events or in the community. I think this helps build trust and community. #oklaed#MDubLearns
I’m lurking tonight. For some reason I can’t find my voice to answer the questions. I’ve tried to answer the first three questions and deleted each one. I guess it’s not my night. #oklaed
A5) For parents, it’s listening to teachers & admin, talking with each other and with parents at other schools. Getting organized about sharing info & advocating. Helps your kids’ reality not become only perspective. #oklaed#parentorganizing
A4: In Norman, we have adopted a PK-12 inquiry process, Guided Inquiry Design that allows students to generate questions and produce mastery of content in authentic ways @lesliemaniotes@InquiryK12#oklaed
A6 Uh... yeah. I'm still working on that. Pretty much everything I do ties back to education or writing. Or both. LOL! That said, I want to write a novel. Maybe one of these days... #OklaEd
#oklaed A5 Along with the big events we may use to advocate, it may be the small things like greeting parents, shaking hands in car line, calling a stressed parent who just left a crying child.
A6: Knowing when to put down the grading pen for the night is key. Your work is super important yes, but so is your home life. Enjoy your weekends, go see movies, go out into town. Enjoy life! #oklaed
A6 I do like to read a lot. And my family and I watch a lot of Netflix shows. (We just discovered Quantico. Anyone else?) We also travel sometimes. #OklaEd
A3: This is why we read diverse literature in my class. We explore race and identity and the danger of “a single story.” Literature is the basis for which we teach students more than reading but empathy. #oklaed
A6: No school work at home until my daughter is in bed. And when I get really tired, I'm finished for the night. It's taken me 5 yrs to learn those! #oklaed
A6: I'm not the best to answer this. I haven't mastered balance yet. I am always ON, meaning I am always, even after hours on twitter advocating for my students. It's hard to shut it off even for a bit. It helps that it's football season and that gives me an out. #oklaed
A5: Always be prepared to tell your story and how it directly effects students. Have 30 second, two minute, 5 minute elevator speeches ready to advocate. #oklaed
A7: I’m not an educator, but I know the importance of work-life balance. It’s critical to teach our students the importance of a healthy work-life balance as well. #OklaEd
A2) Use verbiage like this when speaking with students about their progress. Discuss and provide training to T’s which encourages various methods in which a student can dem learning. When students have diff ways of showing you what they know, other factors are minimized. #oklaED
A6: I'm so fortunate! I get to teach with BOTH my daughters in the same building. My family is at school! But when I need me time, I leave it ALL at school, I don't grade at home very often and I eat dinner with my husband at my table every night 😍 #oklaed
A5: Celebrate learning and publish it to the world via social media, videos, newsletters, face-to-face -- in as many ways as we can. We must control the narrative -- showing the world that our #oklaed schools are amazing places for students to be! @ShariGateley
The easy answer is to say the teachers should reach out to the community, but with so much happening - they may not always have time. The burden is on the community to be involved and help wherever we can #oklaED
#OklaEd A4: I would help them understand that everyone has something of valuable, provide lots of opportunities for them to include their thoughts into classroom activities, and provide positive feedback on those efforts.
A5: so many people have said they like seeing my posts on social media because they get a real picture of what's going on inside a classroom or what a classroom can be. plus connecting with other education champions that challenge/push me, make me better! #oklaed
A6: Set boundaries, we must take care our ourselves to effectively help others. Work stays at work, home stays at home (as much as possible anyway). #oklaed
A5 I need to be better at involving the community in my class and school...I share my story, reach out to reps, senators ect. BUT need to bring them in. #OklaEd
A6) Seriously through, if we don’t take care of ourselves and our families it is more difficult to take of those in our school setting. It required an intentional effort to balance it. It won’t just happen. #Oklaed
A6: I’m not an educator, but I know the importance of work-life balance. It’s critical to teach our students the importance of a healthy work-life balance as well. #OklaEd
A6 - I do not allow myself to work outside of school for more than an hour a day, but I MAKE myself work for an hour a day. It keeps me from getting too hard behind, but also sets boundaries. I actually set a timer & walk away when it goes off. #oklaed
A6 - This year my class load is tougher than ever before, 3 preps including 2 AP subjects. But I'm intentionally taking less work home. I am seeking to be much more present with my own three children at night. They need Dad at home not Mr. Gragg #oklaed#MDubLearns
Q6: I don’t know that I do this all the time. I am lucky in that I have some pretty fantastic friends at school and in my personal life who make sure that I laugh my ass of every single day. #oklaed
A3) Model reading. Discuss books with S’s and T’s. A goal of mine this year is to record me reading various books for S’s and then posting them on our school website. #oklaED
I cannot pretend to know how hard it is for educators. Your job truly is 24/7. I just want to be encouraging and say try to keep your faith and family first and second. Your students will be better for it. And know there are lots of us who look at you all and are amazed. #oklaed
A6: Turned off email notifications on my phone, I am done at the end of the work day for the most part, and when necessary I do guided meditation during the day to calm me! #oklaed
A6: i'm not a good one to talk about this because i eat, sleep, and breathe education sometimes. but i do find ways to unwind by just doing things i love that are COMPLETELY different from teaching or being with kids. #oklaed
A4: I’m more than willing to work with students and allow them to explore ways that serve them and grow them. Students need to feel ownership and they can only do that when we enable them as stakeholders. #oklaed
Ah! A great #oklaed chat—trying to do three things at once—and I just found dark chocolate #peanutbutter cups in my freezer.😆 Now which question are we on?
A6) It’s important to remember that you’re always advocating for your students even when you are off the clock. Legislators always see you as representing your district so make sure you are always putting your best foot forward. #oklaed
A5) Are you talking to your #PTA or P-group about issues facing your school? If not, who do you expect to speak up at the SB meeting? Invite legislators into the classroom so Ss see they're just people too #OklaEd
Our 9th grade daughter put together a poster for French 2 class this weekend titled, "The Family of Twilight." She agreed to let me record her audio narration of it, in both French & English, & share it on our family learning blog: https://t.co/dbx3kGN9k9#OklaEd#CasadyLearns
A5: This really took on a whole new level last year after having three gubernatorial candidates in my classroom. My students were on the news and in the media. Not only has that cemented relationships, BUT my students felt like they mattered that they were important. #oklaed
A7: A great way to share students stories is through newspaper week and having your students write stories to be posted in your local paper. Huge success and gets kids excited to write! #oklaed
I have only seen this from the outside. My wife brings her counseling work home and works well into the wee hours of the morning. Sometimes, all we can do is serve as a support mechanism to reinforce your sanity. #oklaed
A7: I advocated hard for my Ss at the Cap during the Walkout. That hasn't stopped, nor will it. I have attended board meetings. I represent my site in a leadership role with our local union. I take advocating for my SS very seriously. #oklaed
A7: I use real life student examples without identifying details at the state level. In presentations, conversations, and in my own planning—my kids’ stories I woven throughout all things I do! #oklaed
A7: I will tell anyone who will listen that Del City students are the best in the state. They succeed in defiance of what life might deal them. I love these kids and I will make you believe you love them too! #oklaed
A7 - I tell their story on twitter, my blog, in person. Basically everywhere I can. My students have so many great qualities and they need to be celebrated! #oklaed#MDubLearns
A7) We are responsible for sharing our stories (and by default their stories). If we don’t share the positive ones, someone else will share the negative ones and get the attention. Social media, personal conversations, newsletters, etc are great ways to share stories. #Oklaed
There are some fabulous answers this evening and an excellent time to learn, and since I’m having trouble answering, I’m retweeting and “loving” ALL OVER THE PLACE, and it’s fun! #oklaed
A5 This has always been a problem for a dedicated teacher. You could stay at that school 24 hr 7 days a week. You have to realize you are more effective when you are rested. Getting organized has been my key. #Oklaed
That is nice of you to say. I followed these chats for a long time without saying anything because I didn’t want to interject. But I’ve decided to do my best to add when I can, and to always try to be encouraging. #oklaed
A7: i feel like a lot of these answers tonight have been about social media but seriously...we live in an amazing time where we can make connections across the globe to share our Ss stories. also letting people see who my kids really are versus their preconceived notions. #oklaed
A7) By forming relationships with legislators despite which party they are in. Also by focusing on those who are actual opponents to this cause and not criticizing those who are on the same side as you just because their methods are different. End goal is the same. #oklaed
A4) When talking with students (and not just about disciplinary issues 😊), I facilitate discussions about how to translate their feeling/opinions into statements which are self-advocating in nature. I then challenge them to use these strategies & let me know how it goes. #oklaED
A6) Put down the phone (FB, Twitter, etc.). Schedule times to check, write, respond to emails. If you are an advocate for children, but ignore them to advocate...what are you teaching them? #BePresent#OklaEd
A7. My word for the year for 2018 was empower. I want to empower my students to tell their stories and to make sure they know that their experience has value. #oklaed
A7) I love bragging about my students. Working at an alternative school means I have students who have not made the best choices or have gone through extremely difficult circumstances and now they are trying to get back on track. I tell just about and one and everyone. #oklaed
#OklaEd A6: Easy to say, difficult to achieve - but achievable with determination and hard work as well as support and input from family and colleagues. Needed is serious attention to the Four Needs identified by the late Stephen Covey.
Q7 Grateful some teachers sharing student stories as I knock on their doors. Learning bits about realities in Western Heights, Putnam City, Bethany, Edmond & OKCPS one person at a time #oklaed#campaigning#oksd30
A1: It is always important to lead by example. We must continue to tell our stories and share our passion for building the next generation of leaders! #Oklaed
A7) By forming relationships with legislators despite which party they are in. Also by focusing on those who are actual opponents to this cause and not criticizing those who are on the same side as you just because their methods are different. End goal is the same. #oklaed
A6: I find that the balance is important to being successful. Leaving the computer at home a couple days a week establishes an opportunity to have strength in September to support T’s and S’s when the need it the most! #OklaEd
A7: I talk about the struggling students with my military counter-parts and how they eventually find themselves through a mentor they either found from a teacher or someone in the military. We all find ourselves at some point. #oklaed.
A1- Students need to feel safe and welcomed in the classroom to want to learn. A positive environment will only encourage them to learn and enjoy it. #oklaed
A7: I share my Ss stories on the daily. I am very fortunate that my circle is very interested in how they can help education in Oklahoma move in the right direction. So, I share the reality of what education looks like and my circle acts accordingly. #oklaed
A6: I took up running for fitness and stress relief. An unintended benefit: solving complex problems during the workouts. Taking care of you helps you better take care of others. #oklaed
A5) Partners in Ed...community members, businesses, and organizations who volunteer and help with student and building projects. Meet with these people regularly, show appreciation for them, and network to recruit others. #oklaED
A7 we have to listen to the stories of these kids! The ones that are the most disruptive and hardest to get along with have inspiring and many times heart breaking stories. When we care enough to listen we are a step closer to getting them to open up, share, and grow. #oklaed
Also— Students always seem surprised when I ask their concerns. Start to get their parents, but I try to get them to tell their experiences #youngvoters#studentvoices#oklaed
A2: Children will rise to the expectations before them. It is critical that students feel valued, loved, respected and challenged. This sounds simple, but done well, it is incredibly difficult! #Oklaed
LET them tell their story. I’ve volunteered for a long time just to build a rapport with students and for the most part they just want to be heard. I have listened and told these stories in multiple forums so that more are aware of the needs #oklaed
A7: I rely on social media, our local news/tv stations. We use class hashtags and I know that people in our community follow our current events on twitter. #oklaed
A1: In order to have energy in your classroom, I believe you need to create a welcoming place and also have your students stay active. If you keep things positive in class, the kids will provide energy needed as well!! #oklaed
I wanted to take a minute to thank everyone who participats in the #OklaEd chats. I feel like they are an important learning tool for ALL of us. I hope the positivity and encouragement continues in this community. #EducationFirst
We must continue the path that we started. Last year was a good first step for Okla Ed, but the rest of the plan must be completed. That will require another 500 million over two years for #oklaed and I am committed to finishing the plan we started.
A8) Relationships with #okleg are key. If you want a seat at the table and to be included in the conversation then you have to find common ground instead of establishing enemies. #oklaed
A8) One of my biggest goals is to develop and retain all of the great Ts in my bldg and make them feel valued as professionals. Sharing stories so the public knows the great things going on as well as our needs. #Oklaed
A6) Allow myself to have self-care activities with the promise of no guilt (still working on that). Also, turn off my phone during times of the evening and weekend. #oklaED
A8: We HAVE to stay politically active and aware. We have to take pride in what we do and we have share the blessings that come with this profession so that young people will want to Teach! #oklaed
A8 do your homework first! Know more than a political party of legislators you are talking to. Above all, if we want to be seen as professionals we have to conduct ourselves as such. Even if the person we are talking to isn’t! #oklaed
#OklaEd A7: My university student stories have always been in my consciousness - ready to be introduced into conversations and writings, when appropriate of course (typically done anonymously given lack of permission to identify them or allow others to figure out their identity).
A8. VOTE! And staying inform. And hope the #okleg does their job this time. I am grateful for the start with the raise. But they need to figure out the rest of the funding #oklaed
A8: We (my district) (my local union) plan to organize and send delegates to the Cap to keep advocating, and keep reminding them that we meant it when we said we need education funding!!! #oklaed We really are not finished yet! We are about to start our meetings. #oklaed
https://t.co/T4H0EaxJnF#ACEs are real. Can #oklaed solve them for our kids, fix them? Of course not. We aren't that arrogant. But we can learn all we can so we can recognize and respond with professionalism and compassion
@grendelrick, I'm a child of divorce too.
A8 We have to continue the conversation and find resolution BUT even then the conversation must continue. The needs of our Ss and community are always changing. #OkLaED
A8) I’m running for State Senate District 16 (Southeast Norman, Noble, Slaughterville, and Lexington). Until #okleg can start working on getting some of these systematic issues ironed out, I try to work with teachers on getting the community involved with the schools. #oklaed
Q8: I plan to meet with as many educators as I can to make sure I’m fit to address their concerns to avoid another state-wide walk out in the future. #OklaEd
Wow - answers to this question can make a difference! One potential place to start - include educators when considering educational policy. Very critical for teachers/students/communities. #oklaed
I love following so many teachers and seeing the weekly #oklaed chat. The teachers in this state are dedicated to our kids and we should be dedicated to them. Use your voice and your vote to show your support.
A8: I register voters constantly. I started a group chat so we could communicate about education issues during the walkout. I’ve also set up listening sessions with candidates in our area for our educators. The political apathy that existed pre-walkout can’t return. #oklaed
A7) Partners in Ed comes into play again here. People who visit and volunteer at our school will undoubtedly come across at least one student story which will touch them. #oklaED
A8: I volunteered for my candidate in a way that was way outside my comfort zone and will again. Once they are back in session, I will be checking ins with my elected officials. I am working with Chalk the Vote. I will cont. to remind via social media abt voting, etc. #oklaed
A8) Districts need to invest in advocacy effort. We can’t keep doing it the way we’ve always done it and expect different results. It’s important to get these efforts coordinated and streamlined. #oklaed
To help students have their voice you could set a time each week for students to voice their opinion on subjects, and let them voice what they liked learning about during the week. #oklaed
This question is emotional for me. My two proudest legislative moments revolve around student stories. First was Shelter Oklahoma Schools which put over 2 million in #oklaed storm shelters. The other is the CBD bill for children with severe epilepsy. Their stories matter. #oklaed
A8: hey, ya'll. ya'll should vote. oh, and you should also pay attention to candidates stances on issues and not just vote for the person with the R next to their name cause you think toeing the party line is more important than the future of our state. #oklaed#sorrynotsorry
A7 #oklaed
Yes, we must tell the stories of the children in our classrooms, schools, communities. And, we must be #relentless to tell it over and over and over again—especially for those who have no voice, no advocate, and for those who’ve never been heard.
#OklaEd A5: I was and still am determined to help others know about our incredible students, their thoughts, and their aspirations as well as their accomplishments to date - AND seek any opportunity I can find to spread the word!!!
Educators should have a larger voice in public policy that impacts education. It isn’t fair to construct policy and not consider those that have to work though it everyday. #oklaed
A8 Amen, to not getting to the point of needing another walkout but proud to know Okla. Ts are willing to take that step when needed. Keep up the good work, #oklaed! ❤️ @AlphaPlusEdu
I️ believe Teaching students manners and teaching them to help others is a big part of school. My responsibility is to teach them to be good people and prepare them for the real world. The better people I️ can help them become they better our society will be. #oklaed
A2: Some strategies to use to relay that all students will learn together is to simply keep everything fair and let everyone take part and participate! I think it is important to let your students know you're there for ALL of them equally. #oklaed
A8: I know it sounds crazy, but all my work in trauma informed really started out of advocating for our #oklaed world. We are dealing with major issues in education. Bringing light to what all is going on is my advocacy.
A10: Seeing kids that I know are struggling to grasp concepts in the classroom, but seeing them work extra hard and trying melts my heart. It makes me want to be a super teacher and try all new and fun ways for them to learn the concept or idea. #oklaed
A8) Ask us (candidates) hard questions! Often seems like people worry about being confrontational, but asking for more info, positions & plans is fair game for you to make an informed vote! #OklaEd#advocacy
Social media has made this such a huge issue! We need to focus better on the cause (education), and not ruin relationships with legislators over one vote. Many times there's more to the story. #OklaEd#CrazyTrain#HoneyBetterThanVinegar
A7) By forming relationships with legislators despite which party they are in. Also by focusing on those who are actual opponents to this cause and not criticizing those who are on the same side as you just because their methods are different. End goal is the same. #oklaed
A9: THE ENTIRE FACULTY AT MY SITE!!! If I never work anywhere else I am perfectly fine with that! Talk about feeling like family. They inspire me daily. but also @ClaudiaSwisher inspires me daily! Retired but still every. single. day. advocating for the kids! #oklaed
A8) Stay informed; Cont. convos w/people outside of the public ed profession. Take advantage of opportunities to share staff & student stories. Be purposeful about sharing all of the great things going on in public ed because of the progress we’ve made recently. #oklaED
A9: Every single student I’ve lost to death. All 7 of my Plaza kids, my Ss who died by suicide, & the ones I’ve watched bravery survive after these traumas. They are my why every single day. #oklaed
A6- It is important to know when you need a break and time for yourself. Spending time outside of school will be needed, but if you only consume yourself with work then you will not be able to give your full effort during class. #oklaed
A9: This one is easy. @ClaudiaSwisher was my mentor teacher and there has never been a more loving, vocal, enthusiastic champion for Ss and Ts. I am blessed to have learned from the best. #oklaed
A9a 4 years ago (when I was teaching 3rd) I had Ss write about their concerns, thoughts, feelings about the impending test...I advocate for them! #oklaed
A3: we dedicate independent reading time called D.E.A.R. During our leadership class. We use @Achieve3000 as our guide to support reading comprehension @OKCPS#oklaed
A3 - The majority of the literature my Ss read is by minority authors. Most of their schooling consists of dead white guys. I can’t hook them on reading if they don’t read stories by authors who look like them. #oklaed
A9: When you’ve connected with that student that needs you one time - you can’t ever go back. All of them need us and they deserve advocates - they deserve champions. #oklaed
#OklaEd A8: I take every opportunity to both advocate for meaningful Effective Learning within social media. I also interact and work with our local Chesterfield County Public Schools to assist with their mission, get to know their strengths and needs, and help to address needs.
A9 the kids inspire me. I had one particularly kid years ago. He was trauma filled. He helped me help him and paved the way for me to understand in ways I hadn’t before. He helped me in my career. He has a gr8 family now and living a productive life. #oklaed
A9 - My Ss inspire me every day to be the best teacher I possibly can for them, to strive for the best possible conditions for them, and to tell their stories. They are amazing and they deserve the amazing! #oklaed#MDubLearns
A9) I used to teach all at-risk Ss. One of them had such a great heart for encouraging others and we did so with him. He just finished his AA and is a T-aide now. He continually sends encouraging words to his former Ts for making a difference in his life. #Oklaed
A9. There are so many!!!! @Biobellrocks who has seen me from the beginning. (Early years were rough). @beachdreaming44 who has given free reign to do what I love to do and never says no (but she does think I am nuts from time to time).#oklaed
@Jenkins007 who is my right brain of my crazy operation. And @Stv_Gilliland who seems to be on the same frequecy as me. (Which may be scary) but all of them goes with my craziness everyday! #oklaed
A8) If you aren't engaging parents, you're missing out! Still buying too many supplies from your paycheck, be sure they know (and ask them to talk to their legislators about it). It truly does take a village! #OklaEd
A9: All the young military men/women i've met over 20 plus years who struggled in school, But here they are serving their country, protecting mulit-million dollar equipment, and standing guard while while others rest in deployed locations! They inspire me! #oklaed
My three kids. They are public school attenders. They are living/learning through the struggles Oklahoma has created for itself. They make me want to be a better teacher of future teachers AND a better advocate for our public schools. #oklaed
A7- Informing to students to go beyond the classroom walls can help them and their community. It can introduce them to new people and experiences, and it can also reward them for their hard work. #oklaed
Thank you for joining us tonight!! Have a fantastic week and thank you for being champions for kids!! Let’s go change the world! #oklaed#everydayadvocates
A8) 1. Voting 2. Encouraging Others to Vote 3. Supporting pro-public ed candidates with my time, talents (and even a little $ when I can). 4. Did I mention voting? #OklaEd (PS: Nov 6th -- be there!)
A9: For me this one is hard. So many inspire me and encourage me and help me find my voice. I work in a building of amazing professionals and wonderful friends @kriscoop80@beachdreaming44 and @Stv_Gilliland just to name a few #oklaed
A9) My mama! I always knew she was a super star. But it wasn't until she passed that I've run in to SO MANY former students who tell me what a difference she made in their lives. Cue Chicago "You're the Inspiration" #oklaed
A9: I'm inspired by my children & by the two girls who I tutored at an inner-city school for several years. My tutoring experience taught me what it means to want for all children what I want for my own. #oklaed
A9 - I once had a student tell me, “Mrs. G, people like me don’t graduate. People like me end up in jail.” THAT is what makes me work hard, THAT is what keeps me in this profession even when it’s difficult. #oklaed
