#mschat Archive

A chat that offers middle school teachers a chance to have a collaborative discussion about a different topic each week. Our topics change from week to week, ranging from Common Core State Standards to Character Education. During the chat, participants exchanges ideas and resources. The chat group ranges in size each week from 10 to 50+ participants. Discussion can be general talking about instructional style or process to specific. Recently members of the chat group help each other create lessons.
Thursday October 26, 2017
8:00 PM EDT
  • edtechteam Oct 26 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    How will YOU lead? Join us NOW for the #edtechteam ROUNDTABLE https://t.co/KZib5iHlVJ #elemchat #mschat #etcoaches #admin2b
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Good Evening! It is 8pm, & I am happy to be your moderator this evening! Lets see who is here- Roll Call:) #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    good evening #mschat - michael from columbus, oh - middle grades teacher and very excited about tonight's topic!
  • MrPStrunk Oct 26 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Phil Strunk from Northern VA. #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Hi, @jbhanlon. Student at Fresno State! #mschat
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Lauren from New York - 6th grade English teacher & author #mschat
  • cmedlockpaul Oct 26 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hey #mschat! Tell me ab ur teaching practices & u could win $250! 4 my dissertation & I need ur help! https://t.co/UfzHhzBovI
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    https://t.co/QxNzYMgvoO We got the YouthMental Health FirstAid Certification.It is just like cuts&bruises firstaid but for the mind #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Good evening! Brooke from Arlington, MA! Former ms teacher and current prof of ed at Lesley University. Excited to be here! #mschat
  • cmedlockpaul Oct 26 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Definitely want the MS teachers voices included!! Ur area is not studied enough! #mschat https://t.co/UfzHhzBovI
  • Wes73057488 Oct 26 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hey, I'm Wes! I'm a middle grades major in my third year. #mschat
    In reply to @jbhanlon
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Welcome Phil! #mschat
    In reply to @MrPStrunk
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hi #mschat - Paula from Nashville, TN - secondary teacher educator.
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • adamsteaching Oct 26 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hi! Julie from CA lurking from a volleyball game! #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Happy to Have You Here Brooke! Welcome! #mschat
    In reply to @BrookeEisenbach
  • EduGladiators Oct 26 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    #EduGladiators wraps October series on Ss Engagement SATURDAY w/@TopDogTeaching on #flexibleseating #mschat #UrbanEdChat #G2Great #EduColor
  • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Jeremy, Connecticut parent of an 8th grader, @ParentCamp & #digcit leader, education communications specialist. #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:00 PM EDT
      Good Evening! It is 8pm, & I am happy to be your moderator this evening! Lets see who is here- Roll Call:) #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Tonight we will use the Q1:A1 format and remember to use #mschat to share your ideas. First question is coming right up.
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Q1: What do you see are the biggest mental health needs of our students? What supports for those needs are available at your school? #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1: The rising statistics of depression/suicide is alarming. We should have counselors at each school to provide support #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:08 PM EDT
      Q1: What do you see are the biggest mental health needs of our students? What supports for those needs are available at your school? #mschat
  • LeBowAdam Oct 26 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    FREE webinar Nov 13! "Using #Hamilton as a Gateway to Middle School U.S. History." Register: https://t.co/vZAIkyNJkW. #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    a1: so many, but conflict resolution seems to be a big-bucket item. How to process anger & know when & how to let it go& when not to #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    a1: we have a full time counselor available to Ss as well as a dean of Ss that provides support as well. blessed to have both! #mschat
  • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1) Stress, depression, addiction from technology on up. #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:08 PM EDT
      Q1: What do you see are the biggest mental health needs of our students? What supports for those needs are available at your school? #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: My Ss seemed to struggle with relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, identity etc. Unfortunately, we had few resources #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    Yes, unfortunately the downside to tech is bullying #mschat
    • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:11 PM EDT
      A1) Stress, depression, addiction from technology on up. #mschat
      • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:08 PM EDT
        Q1: What do you see are the biggest mental health needs of our students? What supports for those needs are available at your school? #mschat
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: With the pressure to perform on high stakes testing - anxiety! #mschat
  • adamsteaching Oct 26 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: Stress is MAJOR Ss mental health issue. Many deprived in sleep, exercise, healthy food & positive f2f relationships=stressed. #mschat
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1 We need to help Ss explore and enact their values—not always chase happiness or achievement. #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    A1: We are seeing more "extremes" than ever. Stress,addiction,harm,emotions, &Ss are taking it further than Ive seen in my 14 years #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    A1: My pre-service Ts want to help, but aren't trained in counseling What supports can you suggest for new Ts to support mid lvl Ss? #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    anxiety is huge - have this bookmarked but haven't read it yet: https://t.co/AVFqzI7Bpk #mschat
    In reply to @PAGreathouse
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    All of you have brought up some big concerns. We will try to unpack & support these tonight. Q2 is coming right up...#mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Q2: What can we due to reduce anxiety in our classrooms, lessons,& in our schools? #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    Brain 5/6 math T from NH. Jumping in late! #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: Being compassionate, and putting less pressure on grades. Spend more time one on one with them #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:16 PM EDT
      Q2: What can we due to reduce anxiety in our classrooms, lessons,& in our schools? #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: We can provide a caring community and really listen and act on the expressed needs of our Ss. #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    a2: build.relationships.let them know it is ok to fail. I'll say "if you do this wrong,will you fail the class? will I hate you?" NO #mschat
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    A2 Use #acceptance based methods - unpleasant thoughts and feelings are a normal part of living in accordance w/ our values. #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    I think that the strategies put out by https://t.co/fMdmnQxsUM are manageable & suitable for all. I like their ALGEE (Action Plan) #mschat
    In reply to @BrookeEisenbach
  • Wes73057488 Oct 26 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    #mschat, Showing that you're human and approachable.
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    I'd like to learn more about acceptance based methods #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A2- Starts day 1. Build relationships & a a classroom environment that is safe,comfortable,welcoming,&where Ss care 4 one another. #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A2: I find preparation to be a key to helping all of my Ss with anxiety. My Ss who have anxiety need options, space, time, & support #mschat
  • Wes73057488 Oct 26 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    #mschat, A2, Showing that you're human and approachable could help.
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    When schools value test scores over social emotional well-being, we may never really meet their needs. #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Well said. Imagine the stress every assignment, & score brings. One on One feedback would be such a support #mschat
    In reply to @mauyeong
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    if there are ANY changes to routine or expectations, be explicit and advanced about it. make sure to give them time to process #mschat
    In reply to @jbhanlon
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    But what if the feedback adds to the anxiety? #mschat
    In reply to @jbhanlon, @mauyeong
  • AssignmentHelpN Oct 26 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    The SAMR Model: Effective Technology Integration in Classrooms https://t.co/N8NF3bhaQ6 #mschat #TNedchat #IRAchat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Reassurance &people who care about you-great way to ease the anxious mind. Think about how intentional this is toward their needs #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    A2: Know your Ss and consider what might trigger their anxiety so you can learn what they need on an individual level #mschat
  • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2) Focus on building relationships. Thankfully this is the answer to nearly everything else in education. #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:16 PM EDT
      Q2: What can we due to reduce anxiety in our classrooms, lessons,& in our schools? #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    Q3: What can we as educators do to better accommodate students with ADHD & ODD? What are your strategies? #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Help them manage it - our school focuses on "size of the problem" prompts : https://t.co/2pkPKaNKCJ #mschat
    In reply to @PAGreathouse, @jbhanlon, @mauyeong
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Pair with school counselors and conduct mini lessons on ways we can manage anxiety, stress, etc. Counselors are a great resource #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Fidget spinners. We need to let them channel their energy in a positive way instead of constantly telling them to sit down or focus #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:27 PM EDT
      Q3: What can we as educators do to better accommodate students with ADHD & ODD? What are your strategies? #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    a3: WORDING is so important - phrases like "needs to try harder" or "needs to focus more" are devastating to ADHD students #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    a3: have Ss learn WHAT strategies work for them (fidgets, standing tables, wiggle stools) but also how to use them appropriately #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    So true.Sadly, some schools have cut these services& now have shared councilors.Hard to believe. You are right this is a key support #mschat
    In reply to @PAGreathouse
  • Wes73057488 Oct 26 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    #mschat, A3: Being consistent with expectations, but at the same time understanding. For ODD, use a reward system and give choices.
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3: Let Ss move!! Take brain breaks and engage multiple modes of learning #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    as long as they learn how to use them effectively. if the fidget is distracting them or others it isn't the right tool. #mschat
    In reply to @mauyeong
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    A3 Some #Mindfulness interventions can make a big difference for Ss w/ #ADHD #mschat https://t.co/tHXiAhLocW
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    So many Ts are NOT on board:) "When I was in school....." -sadly. You are right; That choice & self awareness is a key! #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A3: Movement is key. #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A3 Positive reinforcement. Focus on small attainable goals then increase difficulty. Help Ss identify what they need 2b successful #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    a3: a belief that 1size-fits-all is not the best option. Also movement & differentiation can be such a big help. Needs to be a norm #mschat
  • kennethdward Oct 26 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    A3 relationships and understanding. Keep our eye on the ball. Not about the process but the learning. #mschat
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    keep your students engaged. this does NOT mean give them worksheets! They must be active in their learning! #mschat
  • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    No adult should deny what they didn't get as kids. They should reflect on what they didn't get and want better for their kids today. #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:32 PM EDT
      So many Ts are NOT on board:) "When I was in school....." -sadly. You are right; That choice & self awareness is a key! #mschat
      In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Think about the power achieving a goal can have. Making the gold ring actually in reach of these kids is so important. #mschat
    • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:33 PM EDT
      A3 Positive reinforcement. Focus on small attainable goals then increase difficulty. Help Ss identify what they need 2b successful #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Would love more flex seating! For now students stand at desk, sit, grab a clipboard and work on floor. They chose what they need! #mschat
    In reply to @TeacherRunner42
  • kennethdward Oct 26 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    A3 don’t fight what works. Who cares if it’s different. If it works!#mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    I am a total advocate of this #mschat
    • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:35 PM EDT
      keep your students engaged. this does NOT mean give them worksheets! They must be active in their learning! #mschat
  • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    We might as well demand a kid in a wheelchair to walk. Instead demand accommodations for all needs. #mschat
    • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:29 PM EDT
      a3: WORDING is so important - phrases like "needs to try harder" or "needs to focus more" are devastating to ADHD students #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Absolutely! ...and don't just give them a tech tool either. Get off your chair & teach (it's an action!) :) #mschat
    In reply to @PAGreathouse
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A4: How do we better support students dealing with depression & self harm? What strategies can we put in place to make safe spaces? #mschat
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A3.2 We put giant rubber bands across their chair legs so they can kick their feet against them & get feedback - cheap & easy #mschat
  • RossCoops31 Oct 26 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    3 Inspiring Quotes and a Video to Start the School Year! #education #mschat #byotchat https://t.co/dQW44dYmUb
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Have resources available to them. Talk to them about it #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:39 PM EDT
      A4: How do we better support students dealing with depression & self harm? What strategies can we put in place to make safe spaces? #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    a4: a plan of immediate support if they need. We've had Ss use a 1-5 scale, or green, yellow, red, blue card system. #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A4- Be the one bright spot in their day! Show them your care about them genuinely.Do your best to make every kid smile when each day #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    This is why we teach #mschat
  • Wes73057488 Oct 26 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    #mschat, A5: This doesn't have an easy solution, but getting to know the students and trying to teach them the value of life is important.
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A4: We need to strive to help our Ss destigmatize mental health needs so they feel safe to speak up and seek the help they need #mschat
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A4: Lovingly teach psychological flexibility. “Love turns pain into purpose” https://t.co/CcbG4dXd2j #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A4- Be the one bright spot in their day! Show them you genuinely care about them.Do your best to make every kid smile each day #mschat
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A4: Reading YA can help students learn how to manage emotions and offer insight into resources they can go to for help. #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    This is why we teach #mschat
    • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:43 PM EDT
      A4- Be the one bright spot in their day! Show them you genuinely care about them.Do your best to make every kid smile each day #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    a4: Don't ignore. Be a support. Talk about feelings, and unpack self help strategies & supports. Lean on guidance when needed #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A4: Literature can help them to see they are not alone, serve as a catalyst for conversation, and then guide them in seeking help #mschat
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    Letting them know they are not alone is the first step in helping them! #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    a4: and don't forget - making Ss laugh or smile doesn't "cure" depression. make sure s/he gets help & support & that guidance knows #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    This one may have already been touched on. So many great ideas tonight. Any new thoughts on Q5 #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    such a great connection as you watch which characters they gravitate towards #mschat
    In reply to @BrookeEisenbach
  • NJAMLE Oct 26 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    Happy Hallo–STEAM! https://t.co/bEFXvaOqUy via @TeachingChannel #njed #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    Q6: What do we as Educators need? & How do we get it? #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A5: Providing a safe space for them. Letting them know we are here for them beyond the classroom #mschat
    • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:47 PM EDT
      This one may have already been touched on. So many great ideas tonight. Any new thoughts on Q5 #mschat
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    A6: Having a good team to work with. We are in this together #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    A5: We can give them outlets to express & connect without stigma or judgement. We need to create a safe space #mschat
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    a6: training - @jbhanlon led with this - it is SO important to recognize the signs and patterns. #mschat
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5: These "burdens" hinder learning. Therefore, we have a responsibility to address these obstacles. #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A5: When a S chooses to share their trauma, we should be mindful of potential triggers in our curriculum and dialogue #mschat
  • hoffmanteambret Oct 26 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    Bam! The level of profound need wasn't covered in preservice classes. #mschat
  • Wes73057488 Oct 26 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    #mschat, A6: Educators need an outlet as well. Maybe a gym membership or some regular activity.
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A5 @Tolerance_org has great resources on responding to trauma in the classroom #mschat https://t.co/P9p8pSbXhH
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6: When I got my Youth Mental Health First Aid cert,the most important thing I earned was how much more info & PD,I needed on this. #mschat
  • JeremyDBond Oct 26 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6) Support from other adults. As a parent I often bring up family engagement, but what about "teacher engagement"? Help each other. #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A6: Self-care is so important. As one of my pre-service Ts once stated, "We can't pour from an empty vessel" #mschat
  • PAGreathouse Oct 26 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A6: Training. Pre-service Ts need to trained as well! #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    So true, and when we do hit a trigger we should have a pre-planned reaction to support those Ss. NO ONE TAUGHT US THIS:) #mschat
    In reply to @BrookeEisenbach
  • mauyeong Oct 26 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    Agreed! It takes a lot for a S to come forward and share. We in turn need to be aware of our actions #mschat
    • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:51 PM EDT
      A5: When a S chooses to share their trauma, we should be mindful of potential triggers in our curriculum and dialogue #mschat
  • LaurenPorosoff Oct 26 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    A6 Ts need to practice self-care! #mschat https://t.co/mhAaZdzAxp
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    My Team gets 40min every other day, &it is so valuable for support. The rest of our day is packed with Ss. We need to value Teaming #mschat
    In reply to @JeremyDBond
  • TeacherRunner42 Oct 26 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    thank you, @jbhanlon, for leading such an important chat. I appreciate you! #mschat
  • jbhanlon Oct 26 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Last One-Thank You So Much for Your Time & Support of Students! Great Conversation Tonight! #mschat
  • hoffmanteambret Oct 26 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    How do you worry about the perfect lesson when you have S that are literally fighting to survive. #mschat
  • Mr_Bussiere Oct 26 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Great chat! Thanks @jbhanlon for moderating. Have a great week everyone! #mschat
  • BrookeEisenbach Oct 26 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Thanks for the great chat!! I hope to join again next time, and hopefully encourage my pre-service Ts to do the same! #mschat