#NHCSchat is a monthly twitter chat for, about and by educators in New Hanover County, North Carolina. #NHCSchat is an opportunity for teachers, administrators and other educators in southeastern NC to grow and develop their personal learning network (PLN) by connecting to other educators in our district and around the world. This monthly chat will create a forum for NHCS educators to gather virtually around the common interest of providing the best possible learning experience for students in our district. Chat topics will vary but will focus on best practices for teaching and learning in the digital age and will be moderated primarily by NHCS educators.
Hi, this is Tracey Failla, first grade teacher at Pine Valley Elementary. This is my first time on a twitter chat! Thanks @MsTaylorsClass_ for your encouragement and help! #NHCSchat
A1: I use the @RemindHQ App to help along w/ updating my class site weekly. I also love @Seesaw to connect Ps to their Ss. We host family nights throughout the year w/ the PTA. I've invited Ps into the classroom and I've hosted my own family night! #NHCSChat
A1: I love seeing the different family nights' at our schools. I think this is a great way to help support the collaboration between parents and schools! #NHCSChat
We invite all parties to all meetings. Partner with community agencies like NHC Sheriff Dept. and Coastal Horizons. SSW conducts home visits to connect families to resources. #NHCSChat
A1: Community support is out there. I've learned to just ask! Yoga instructors, karate instructors, and child nutrition dept. have been willing to come in to talk with Ss about healthy movement and eating. And newsletters! #NHCSchat
A1: Our school tries to have some kind parent involvement night once a month. My parents personally love @ClassDojo messaging for communication within the classroom. #NHCSChat
A1: I find support within our school too! Ss this year visited the school cafeteria for a behind the scenes tour! They LOVED it! They learned about nutrition and how to run a kitchen. #NHCSchat
A1: our school uses Classdojo to also connect to parents which allows parents to get notifications on their phone. Brochures for each grade area slo given to parents to be aware of of what their child will be be learning #NHCSchat
A2: I love using @GoNoodle for movement breaks! I also started using a Google Chrome extension, Move It, to incorporate more movement and brain breaks. Those are no more than 30 second breaks and my students love it! #NHCSChat
A2: My class loves moving to Go Noodle. It is a free online resource that has fantastic movement breaks with a variety of choices. There are even brain breaks to breathe and calm down! #NHCSchat
A2: GoNoodle is awesome! I reward Ss who participate with Positive Activity Choice points as part of our PBIS initiative. Ss like fitness breaks with Billy Blanks like this one https://t.co/wfWVvCf1UF and yoga withTara Stiles, https://t.co/ldZJE82gfQ#NHCSchat
A2 @GoNoodle - FREE & easy for classroom Ts to give Ss a movement break (web-based videos).
Also try the MOVE IT, a Chrome extension by @thePEGeek. Schedule movement break ‘pop-ups’ throughout day. I do every 15 min. Each break is ~30 sec. #NHCSchat
A2: Stations! My students love the quick activities and the movement from one area to another is perfect. Also, the occasional dance party never hurt anyone! ;) #NHCSchat
A1: I find support within our school too! Ss this year visited the school cafeteria for a behind the scenes tour! They LOVED it! They learned about nutrition and how to run a kitchen. #NHCSchat
A2: Physically fit students perform better on standardized tests! Here is an awesome list of middle school acitivity breaks! https://t.co/omrJxZDVdN#NHCSchat
Our track club is open to anyone, both students and staff. Classrooms have physical activity breaks. Science students perform the "Pseudo-pod Shuffle", "Cilia Fingers" and "Protist Movement" dances! #NHCSchat
A2: As a PE T when I find a good brain break link or resource l like to pass it on to other Ts at my school so they can use them in class. Some great resources are GoNoodle and Cosmic Kids Yoga. #NHCSchat
A2: My class loves @GoNoodle breaks. Also our school has a running club that meets once a week. @CastleFoxbunch and I are currently training 45+ 3rd and 4th graders for the Teacher Trot in May. #NHCSChat
A2: I love using Gonoodle as a quick way to add some movement. Also I often have standing stations and Scavenger hunts in my room and hallway for more movement. #NHCSChat
A3: In ELA, we read a variety of texts that emphasize the importance of nutrition and physical activity. Scholastic Scope has tons with lots of cool info graphics! My Plate is also posted in my room and my Ss have had instruction about reading nutrition labels. #NHCSchat
A3: Nutrition is something I'd love to get ideas on how to incorporate more within my instruction. I know plan on working with our cafeteria staff for taste testing healthy foods & I encourage Ss to try new foods at lunch. We often discuss our feelings & empathy. #NHCSChat
A3 Classroom Ts should be covering the NC-SCOS for #HealthEd. https://t.co/NP5MENDf6z#PhysEd Ts include health lessons as well. All Elem Ss should be getting 30 minutes of physical activity ea day...can be 3 x 10 min each. #NHCSchat
A3: Morning meeting is a safe space to address alot of our current issues. Simply being brave enough to have the conversations with our students! #NHCSChat
We utilize our Essential Standards to provide health education and are constantly researching current statistics, trends and information. Our goal is to provide relevant info for our students to benefit from. #NHCSchat
A2: GoNoodle is awesome! I reward Ss who participate with Positive Activity Choice points as part of our PBIS initiative. Ss like fitness breaks with Billy Blanks like this one https://t.co/wfWVvCf1UF and yoga withTara Stiles, https://t.co/ldZJE82gfQ#NHCSchat
A3 Following the “Coordinated School Health” BOE Policy 8620 ensures the #WSCC (Whole School, Child & Community) health is properly addressed. https://t.co/h6ATYHJKSz#NHCSchat
A3: Model proper nutrition! Your Ss see everything! We don't reward with treats and when we do have special events we have healthy snacks (popcorn, apples, cheese sticks) #NHCSchat
A4 - Prioritize!! Self-care is a must! If you don't have time to decompress and relax you won't do anyone any good! Learn to say NO if you are feeling overwhelmed! #NHCSchat#wellness
A4: In my 3rd year, I've finally understood the word no. I set an alarm in the afternoon so I don't stay super late at work. I also ensure if I take anything home, it is something minor not major. So if I decide not to work on it, it doesn't hinder the school day. #NHCSChat
A4: Finding ways to take time for myself! @jenniferlhatch and @somerstahl for UNCW have a great presentation about the the 25th hour that helped me prioritize! #NHCSChat
A4. Make time for yourself & family. We try to do everything for everyone but we MUST take time daily for physical activity & time with our families. Being organized & prepping food, schedules, workouts helps! #NHCSchat#NHCSwellnesshttps://t.co/GOD8MDKFuF via @SparkPeople
A3: Our school is currently participating next Jump Rope for Heart through @American_Heart. I thought the opening assembly was awesome and covered all aspects of health. #NHCSChat
A4: Work-life balance is difficult. I use my calendar to help prioritize all the things I need to do. Saying "No" IS ok, especially if your plate is already full! Don't bite off more than you can chew! #NHCSchat
A4: Ugh - this is a struggle for me. I'm getting better at the saying no part, but with kids and their after school activities/sports it is hard to take the time for my wellness. I try to make healthy food choices and eat before 6pm...when I'm home by then. #NHCSchat
Our Principal and Admin. Staff promote "family first" in our school community. Not just words. The Educator IS their best resource for instructing children. We can't afford not to be at, or near, our very best. Constantly re-evaluating "What is important NOW". #NHCSchat
A4: I try to prioritize family first, then students, then other work obligations. Sounds easier than it is in reality! Also,that leaves out me! Group exercise classes at O2 fitness save my sanity. #NHCSchat
A4: This has been a struggle for me this year! I try to remember I am a mom and a wife too, not just a teacher. Spending quality time w/ my family always makes my heart happy! #NHCSchat
A4: I work to make time when my girls are asleep, not to take time away from them. Sometime that means working out early in the morning or late at night! #NHCSchat#WorthIt
A4 I try to encourage our Ts to participate in self care activities outside of school. Practicing mindfulness and understanding your limits is key. Sometimes saying “no” is important. #NHCSChat
A4: I have a horrible problem with the word NO!! It is almost not even in my vocabulary. I think it is vital to any professional to pencil in time on your calendar for yourself. As a runner I try to run at least three times a week. That is my “me” time 🤓#NHCSChat
A4:I establish a routine that I try to stick to. It doesn't always work but I usually have time to get my workout in, cook dinner and spend time with my family. Sometimes my lesson plans aren't perfect but I am a better teacher when I take care of myself, body and mind! #NHCSChat
A5 - Aldi's is my new BFF! Each week I buy a few extra healthy snack items and leave them in my room in case anyone missed breakfast or just needs a pick me up during snack time. #nhcschat#wellness
Your kids always are curious about my foods when they go through the lunch line. Its a game that we have. They always want to see what I'm eating. I love it! #NHCSchat
A5: Taking time to listen to the student always helps me understand what he/she needs, and allows me to alter my instruction to better meet those needs. #NHCSchat
A5: Build relationships with your students and coworkers - it can go a long way in ensuring needs are being met. Check in with one another, make sure support is available when it is needed #NHCSchat
A5: Creating a safe & loving classroom environment. Ss learn how to express their emotions to one another in a calm manner & we celebrate one another's successes. We also encourage one another when we make mistakes & discuss how mistakes are important in our learning. #NHCSChat
A5: Social, emotional, & mental health are the priority! Spending time getting to know the kids, their families and previous schools, and helping them to build relationships early in the year has been well worth the effort. Then I treat them like they are my family! #NHCSchat
A5. I frequently have informal conversations with my students during walks. I ask how things are going, what goals they have, where they want to go to school, work, etc. #NHCSchat#NHCSwellness@Whats__WHAT@ASCD
Making sure that the immediate needs of our students are met to the best of our ability OR connect families to those resources. A student coming off a bus runs to the cafeteria for a reason. Be empathetic. #NHCSchat
A5: I am grateful to have a strong Student Support Staff that are proactive in recognizing Students in need of attention. This is done on a daily basis!!! #NHCSchat
A5: We discussed the safety survey today & one question talked about "trusted teachers and adults". It's nice to know my Ss are comfortable talking to me about things that concern them. #NHCSchat
A5: Collaboration is key! I work closely with our social workers and counselors to make sure my students needs are met. We are alway in contact with each other and the families. My students also are confortable talking to me and asking for help. #NHCSChat
A6: My student's creativity shines during our Work on Writing station & Writing Fundamentals time. Also they get to explore their interests on @EpicKidsBooks. I always take the time to listen to what they share & learn from them. I have plans on trying Genius Hour too! #NHCSChat
A6 Choice Boards for summative projects in #HealthEd and letting Ss create and share their own skills-based games in #PhysEd. Let the creativity begin!
#NHCSchat
A6: Providing leadership opportunities! Reluctant readers have flourished in our partnership with Gregory 1st graders. Also, some Ss have partnered with SDA as mentors. Ss have learned to embrace their potential as leaders and become more confident readers. #NHCSchat
A6: Project Based Learning, Genius Hour, Choice Boards are all ways to create opportunities for Ss to explore & share natural abilities and talents #NHCSchat
A5: it’s really important to me to have an open door policy, an office where everyone feels comfortable to come in and sit down and chat. Relationshipsare KEY! #NHCSChat
We offer all sorts of clubs: physical, academic and social. We also conduct assessments in order for students to learn more about themselves, their proclivities, hidden talents and skills. #NHCSchat
A5 At #williston we have a SS team of 3 counselors, 2 SWs, and 2 CIS Specialists. We try to work as a team to support our Ss social/emotional needs so the focus can get back to learning. We collaborate with our school nurse, SROs, ISS, and more to form a FIT team. #NHCSchat
A6: I like to provide students with activities of varying difficulties and have the students choose which activity is best suited to their abilities. #NHCSchat
A7: Encouraging Ts to become familiar with Policy 8620. Also, MODELING. My Ss enjoy dress down days and physical activity opportunities to food, which is just quick and easy. PBIS team has been onboard witih supporting the Wellness initiative! #NHCSchat
A7: Our PBIS discussions are very helpful. We do a great job of sharing ideas & incentives with one another. I have a choice wheel that gets spun for incentives, it includes extra recess, free choice centers, lunch in the classroom & special dress days. #NHCSChat
Q7 we used to use candy as point sheet rewards. Now we try and give students other options like basketball Friday’s or spending time with a T they look up to. #NHCSChat
As an administrator, I create a Class Dojo comprised of students that are recommended by teachers. Positive behaviors are tracked and reinforced by what we find motivates that particular child. This is discovered by conversation and observation. #NHCSchat
A7: This is a perfect opportunity for us to build relationships with our students. We are able to find out what truly motivates them and sometimes it is just lunch with that key-adult in the building! #NHCSChat
A7: school-wide we don’t use food as incentives or rewards. We even model by having healthy snacks at meetings. Getting the school on board is important. #NHCSChat
A7: @FHGE every T has a Classdojo page and specials Ts are connected to each T's class. This allows us to have one streamlined rewards system. #NHCSchat
A7 Physical activity should be a REWARD...never a punishment. Instead of a pizza party, how about a DANCE party? #NHCSchat Policy 8620 https://t.co/chsdp6ftvw
A7 We use Caught Ya Roaring tickets instead of candy rewards. I haven't bought a bag of candy all year! I also give silly prizes. The Ss favorite is Sitting in the Teachers Chair #NHCSChat
As an administrator, I create a Class Dojo comprised of students that are recommended by teachers. Positive behaviors are tracked and reinforced by what we find motivates that particular child. This is discovered by conversation and observation. #NHCSchat
A7: It is a mindset change. As a former Coach you can always incorporate developing the wanted skill with small physical activities. I always feel the best learning comes when being active #NHCSchat
A7: We used to provide honor roll students with large candy bars. This year students are rewarded with dress down days. I reward pos. behavior with PBIS "Tiger Tickets", free choice activity, stickers, fun pencils or school supplies #NHCSchat
A8. Opioid affected children are coming our way. We will have to meet their diverse needs in our schools. Hospitals are building entire NIC-U centers just for the babies being born addicted to opioids. #NHCSchat#NHCSwellness@CoastalHorizon1https://t.co/pTJQAi1Esb
A8: Such an important & sensitive topic. I think creating support groups for Ss who are dealing w/ this epidemic, whether it is from their parents or another family member. Even going as far as to offer monthly support groups for the student & their family members. #NHCSChat
A8: Honestly, until recently I thought of the Opioid Epedemic as a "high school" problem. A trusted colleague has recently opened my mind about how family member addictions affect younger Ss. This video is eye-opening! https://t.co/FtZoVXy1VB via @NBCNightlyNews#NHCSchat
A7 We use Caught Ya Roaring tickets instead of candy rewards. I haven't bought a bag of candy all year! I also give silly prizes. The Ss favorite is Sitting in the Teachers Chair #NHCSChat
A7: school wide for PBIS we use stickers as rewards and also classdojo is used school wide. Our specials give our rewards to the best class at our quarterly awards #NHCSchat
I talk a lot with the Ss about how moving our body resets our minds! We always have a movement break before an assessment or writing assignment.#NHCSchat
A9 Many people have already said this beautifully tonight...building relationships is so important, listening to our students and simply saying good morning! #NHCSchat
A9: Diffusing calming fragrances, dimming the lights, and using sounds from the Calm app to set a peaceful mood in the a.m. helps me have a better sense of which Ss are experiencing trauma and creates an environment in which I can address their needs. #NHCSchat
A9: Constantly reminding students that their classroom/school environment is a safe and loving environment. This way they are comfortable, feel loved by all and have something constant on a weekly basis! Even seeing students outside of the class is great! #NHCSChat
A8: I think we need to talk with students about making postitive choices and the mindset that they can do anything they put their mind to. A great resource I use is 365 Days of Wonder by @RJPalacio. We read a different inspirational quote each day during morning meeting #NHCSChat
A9: It’s important for me to make sure I’m listening to what may have caused or led to their misbehavior. Let them know I care even if I’m giving a consequence. #NHCSchat
A9: As Ts we have the opportunity to create a safe environment for Ss, as well as to teach Ss how to create and maintain their own safe physical environment. #NHCSchat
Our student support staff help address any unmet basic student and family needs through community agency referrals, and through school based resources (CPTA and McKinney Vento). #NHCSchat
A9 Create an environment where ALL students feel safe...safe to talk, safe to NOT talk, safe to be their authentic selves, free from bullying or persecution. #NHCSchat
A9: being observant of our students and noticing changes and making any necessary referrals. our school connects with community resources which helps greatly in this area! #NHCSchat
A9 Building relationships with Ss is #1. Then create that safe learning environment. I have a lamp, classical music and just added a EO diffuser. We need to look into the harmful effects of the florescent lights and suggest some alternatives to lighting the classroom. #NHCSChat
A10: Can't wait to see some ideas! I have tried my teacher web page, newsletters, parent phone calls, etc. Family involvement is next for me as far as professional growth! #NHCSchat
A10: Having family nights on and off campus, using apps to connect parents to the school and to their student's learning as well as inviting parents into the classroom, for field trips and special events (Top Tiger Assemblies and Field Day)! #NHCSChat
A 10. Make Family Engagement a Priority, Family Fitness Nights, Walk the Loop, Marathon Home Challenge, Student PBL Night, Wellness Newsletter, Send Home Resources, Surveys, School Marketing Plan, Open Line Communication, Community Input Opportunities
#NHCSchat#NHCSwellness
We use newsletters, emails, social media pages, special events held at the school, home visits, family night at local restaurants and events such as "Coffee w/the Counselors. #NHCSchat
Q9 its all about building relationships! It’s so important to Ss that they feel cared for. Using encouraging language and focusing on the positives. If Ss know they can count on their T for supper they will thrive! #NHCSchat
A10: family involvement is an area I’d like to improve on as a school. We are having a dinner and guest motivational speaker on Tuesday! Excited for that & hopeful for a good turnout! #NHCSChat
A10: WIlliston has a legacy commitee that brings in community members but honestly I feel this is a place of growth for me. I use my webpage, remind app and letters home but I need to collaborate with outhers in our school to bring the community inside our school. #NHCSchat
#NHCSchat Q9 its all about building relationships! It’s so important to Ss that they feel cared for. Using encouraging language and focusing on the positives. If Ss know they can count on their T for support they will thrive! #NHCSchat
A10: Our schools hosts nights where parents come to see students work or special activities. Our latest event was a culture night. It was awesome to see all the different cultures from our school on display #NHCSChat
Be sure to join us on April 11 for the next #NHCSchat - Be Game Changers: How Beginning Teachers and Veteran Teachers can work together to support student success. https://t.co/wBB7Etr1vF
Be sure to join us on April 11 for the next #NHCSchat - Be Game Changers: How Beginning Teachers and Veteran Teachers can work together to support student success. https://t.co/wBB7Etr1vF
A10: I would LOVE to start a family book club at my school next year. I think it is such a great way to connect families with literature and their students. If you have some tips on family book clubs... send them my way! #NHCSchat
