#iaedchat Archive
Run by Iowa educators, #IAedchat is on Twitter the first, second, and third Sundays each month at 8:00pm CST. We have added #IAedchat LIVE to the fourth Sunday of the month at 8:00pm CST. This will take place in Google Hangout on Air. We will share the invitation and link to #IAedchat LIVE each month.
Sunday May 15, 2016
Good evening & welcome to ! I’m excited about the next hour of learning - End with the Beginning in Mind!
Good evening & welcome everyone! My tweets for the next hour are dedicated to .
Our topic is “Ending with the Beginning in Mind”
Evening all! Ben, 4th grade, Mason City, IA
Your co-moderators for tonight’s are and
Your co-moderators for tonight’s are and
Take a moment to introduce yourself, your role in schools, and where you are tweeting from tonight.
Hello! Alexis Wiltgen...2nd grade teacher from Pocahontas, IA
Good Evening everyone, Henry HS Principal from MA bouncing back and forth on and
Colin Wikan...Dean of Students at Bettendorf HS in Bettendorf, Iowa. Looking forward to tonight's chat.
Hi everyone. Deb from Cresco jumping in. HS ELA. Certainly happy to see the sun shining today
Good to see you again, Henry!
There she is! Welcome, Deb!
Hi everyone! Trista - current & future principal.
Good evening, ! Dan Butler, principal of and in the Western Dubuque District.
Hello there! Jessica Bieber. Emmetsburg. Kindergarten Teacher.
Andrea - Curriculum PD Leader and Instructional Coach at Benton CSD. It’s always a great pleasure to learn with you on .
Good evening, everyone. Anna - teacher
Hello ! Darin, 6th/8th grade teacher from Northeast Iowa, glad to be here tonight! :)
Hi all! Nick, PK-8 principal in Cedar Rapids.
Good to see you again, Jessica!
Good evening everyone! Crystal, MS AP in NC
Good evening, my friend. Great to see you again.
Thanks and It's a lovely way to spend a Sunday night
Brett sliding in from Oskaloosa, 6th G Math /SS will be in and out!
Hello Sunday and Kim-Kindgergarten
Great to see you, my man!
Good Evening from southern CA! Great topic tonight
Eric, Elementary Principal in Marion, IA.
Good evening! Becky, elem principal from Monmouth, Il
Hello all! Jodi from Atlanta.... Jumping in!
Welcome, Crystal! Thank you for joining
Kit Schiefelbein, AP at Norhtstar MS in Eau Claire, WI here
If you have a moment, would love to hear your thoughts on my latest post on Mindful Leadership https://t.co/3mq5btTvvg
Great to see you, buddy. Hope all is well is CA!
Glad to see everyone hopping on tonight! It was hard to come inside after such a beautiful day!
Hey Mr. Butler! Always glad to hang at the cool kid table! :)
glad to be here! Ready to finish the year strong.
Good to see you again, Becky! I like the new profile pic!
Thanks & ! Glad to be back!
Thanks & ! Glad to be back!
What a great group of educators here this evening! Q1 is coming up in one minute.
Hi friends! Shaelynn from Conrad. Education Services Consultant: Literacy and technology. Hope all is swell on Sunday!
Welcome, Shaelynn. Good to see you again!
Hi All! Nikki Melody AP at Frances Willard elem in Rock Island.
Q1: We are coming to the end of the school year; what are you focused on to ensure a smooth ending?
The greetings/welcomes you get when checking-in for are motivation to keep returning... (1of2)
TO you too Darin. It was a beautiful day, wasn't it?
A1: Keeping kids at the center of what we do each day. Focus on positive interactions, not end of year behaviors that wear on us.
hi Dan! Hope you are well!
A1: Ensuring students & parents know how much they've grown since the BOY and setting goals for summer and beyond.
We can't go wrong if we do this, Nick. Simple and true. https://t.co/eI1PiFDu19
A1: Keeping kids at the center of what we do each day. Focus on positive interactions, not end of year behaviors that wear on us.
A1 Continuing what we started. Taking risks. Trying new things. Encouraging others to do the same!
(2of2)...Must be modeling how we should interact w/ our Ss upon their arrival each AM/day!
Today was awesome! Got some stuff done felt good doing it! :)
A1 Remembering that not all S are happy to be leaving the safe confines of school.
A1: Good communication on all the "end of the year" details (class lists, concerts, special programs, etc.)
A1 Focused on high engagement and continued relationship building with kids and families. Security and safety help Ss the most.
A1: focused on finishing strong! Beginning next year in a new school and trying to stay positive - I'm going to miss this place!
A1: I am focused on reminding students to keep goals in mind, to finish strong, and make good decisions.
A1: Building a culture of continued growth and learning among staff and Ss, gearing up for successful summer school opp for Ss.
It’s easy to welcome friends!
A1 First, I'm trying to keep the learning happening, which can be tough when the weather gets nice.
A1 as easy as it is to have fun & toss routines out the window I try to stress them to keep students & myself give 100% effort
A1 Randi from Des Moines here, late! Sorry! End of year, patience. Remembering each student is worth it! Every day!
I like the focus on growth, Anna. It is so critical to highlight this! Not the same for all. https://t.co/Kxb24grW8k
A1: Ensuring students & parents know how much they've grown since the BOY and setting goals for summer and beyond.
Hey Andrea!! :) Nice to see you as well!
A1 - Continued communication w/ Ps and keeping routines with all of the fun end of the year things
A1: Focused on supporting our students finish strong
A1: Paying close attention to Ss...giving them the extra brain break when needed and keeping instruction engaging & exciting
We appreciate the comment, Eric. We truly try to model the way and that means a lot.
A1: Encourage S to finish strong. Like running a marathon and making sure the end doesn't undo all the long miles preceeding.
We are focusing on social emotional learning and self reflection. Important for Ss to see their growth.
Sounds like great end of year goals!
A1 Also, paying attention to students' needs and making sure they are getting things done that need to be done.
Yes! All these things - until the final bell! https://t.co/40pHIqLaO1
A1 Continuing what we started. Taking risks. Trying new things. Encouraging others to do the same!
A1: reflection at the end of the school year on what to Keep, Grow, and Toss!
A1: Continuously teaching my students to keep the "eye on the prize!" and not check out early.
A1: I am focused on consistent routines in the face of many events and activities. Keep kids at the core; what's best for them?
A1.2: Keep being present, smiling, talking w/kids/parents, visiting classrooms- doing the stuff that matters to build culture.
A1 When HS kids get behind in several classes, they can get overwhelmed and feel like they will never catch up so why try.
All the feels at once can be overwhelming! Happy, sad, scared, excited!
Now is when I start to see some S's "push" to help their seperation anxiety. Easier to leave if you dislike the teacher.
A1 we are committed to teaching until the last bell. Throughout the month of May Ts share what is happening in their classrooms
A1: also making sure the routines stay as normal as possible. We keep walls and halls up til the end.
Culture is huge! Something we have to keeping creating and fostering in our schools!
yeah. Evening Andrea! You are always so kind!
That is why we have Twitter Tuesdays at https://t.co/FjDAVGeMdD
A1 - Continued communication w/ Ps and keeping routines with all of the fun end of the year things
Absolutely, Trista. When we stop, they stop. https://t.co/UCM5BgOQE5
A1: also making sure the routines stay as normal as possible. We keep walls and halls up til the end.
A1 Try to keep the learning front and center. The end of the school year shouldn't mean the end of learning.
Love this: keep, grow, toss. https://t.co/7vn4Z6Xqkm
A1: reflection at the end of the school year on what to Keep, Grow, and Toss!
Patience! Sometimes I’m not sure what that is! Great reminder! https://t.co/v9NnvoyvfP
A1 Randi from Des Moines here, late! Sorry! End of year, patience. Remembering each student is worth it! Every day!
Great visual - the final few miles can be the toughest! https://t.co/sC0Njy3KGu
A1: Encourage S to finish strong. Like running a marathon and making sure the end doesn't undo all the long miles preceeding.
I would love to know more about Twitter Tuesdays! For Ps, Ss, Ts, all?
A1 2: I have Ss who will need food, etc. support throughout summer. Having those convos now to ensure they're ready for summer.
A1 I made summer reading lists for a couple of students who asked for one. Love when that happens!
Q1: We are coming to the end of the school year; what are you focused on to ensure a smooth ending?
hi Henry. It's been a long time. Hope you are well!
A1: School Picnic in low SES neighborhood to promote programs over the summer. Prevent summer slide! Huge success and great fun!
A1. Remaining visible and accessible to teachers and students.
https://t.co/CqNmjTDHxl
Q1: We are coming to the end of the school year; what are you focused on to ensure a smooth ending?
Great strategy, Ted. Sometimes that is all that it takes. Visibility is a powerful thing. https://t.co/fAhaNzqfcw
A1. Remaining visible and accessible to teachers and students.
Q2: Describe your thoughts on the statement, “End with the beginning in mind.”
agreed! I've fallen victim more than once those last few miles!
Inspired by my friend to visit both Texas and Iowa this evening via and .
Brian, HS principal from Mass.
A.1. Goal setting w S's and T's to celebrate how far we have come and how far we wanna go next.
A2 why am I teaching? Reminding myself at this time of the year is necessary!!!!
Communication, focus, engagement, fun, positivity, student-focused, growth-focused! So many great answers https://t.co/9glv63f5pl
A1 - Continued communication w/ Ps and keeping routines with all of the fun end of the year things
A2: use the information and emotions of present moment to set high quality goals for next school year. Plan to improve
A2. The hopes/dreams we had at the BOY, have we fulfilled them? If not, what can we do to change that in the next few weeks?
A2 For me it means to remember our goals from beginning of the semester/year and make sure we are working hard to achieve
A2: the end is always a good time for reflection and to look ahead to what is to come. What do we keep, what do we change?
A2 discuss goals & outline action steps of summer learning/practice to prepare for 1st grade next fall
A2 The last three weeks I've been using the same opening bell problems form the first 3 weeks. S surprised how easy they are now.
great idea! Perfect way to get families and community involved for kids!
A2: powerful way to reflect and see where the Ss started and where they are finishing...how have they progressed toward the goals?
A2: That quote means to finish as strong as u started. Don't focus on being done, but finish with the passion with which u began.
This is interesting and a pretty cool way to demonstrate how far they have come. https://t.co/lMN2X3teXj
A2 The last three weeks I've been using the same opening bell problems form the first 3 weeks. S surprised how easy they are now.
A2 Finishing this year with thoughtful planning on starting next year. Summer isn't down time.
A2: Have the same amount of positive energy, excitement and motivation as in the beginning. Can be difficult but worth it.
A1 Ending the school year by prioritizing relationships with Ss and Ts
A2 - Exactly what I was thinking - Future 1st graders is what I want to help prepare. https://t.co/2TGfOUYYmE
A2 discuss goals & outline action steps of summer learning/practice to prepare for 1st grade next fall
A2 It also makes me reflect on what our classroom was like this year. What needs tweeking?
A1: Trying to be patient because everyone is wired. We remind each other why we're here.
I keep hearing a lot about reflection. How do you keep this at the top of your lists as we close out the year!?
Q2 Constant cycle. What will I do differently next year? Same? Reflecting on this year helps me answer these questions to know
A2: Finishing what you started. Keep yourself from "checking out early" just as much as the kids.
A2 End the year as excited for learning as the beginning. Attitude -what can we do next?
so important. You are a true leader. We never stop caring for kids, even over the summer
A2: Helps to begin planing for next year AND forces reflection on ALL that's been accomplished this year
A1 values and community building. I'm done teaching content; we're reviewing for finals.
A2: I'm making sure I'm keeping my growth mindset
A2: I only have one shot with each S. I need to give it my all everyday for every student. Begin each day/year with that in mind.
A2 Even though we are finishing a year, have to plan for the 1 starting in a short 9 wks. Remember the road trip.
"...finish with the passion with which you began" GREAT perspective! https://t.co/tmfQHpmud9
A2: That quote means to finish as strong as u started. Don't focus on being done, but finish with the passion with which u began.
A2: All about learning from successes and failures to lead to future gain. Reflection is a big piece to drive future decisions.
We always want to stay connected to our core values and purpose. https://t.co/KuIfBvFrAG
Q2: Describe your thoughts on the statement, “End with the beginning in mind.”
The end of year still needs the same energy, enthusiasm, and effort that the beginning brings.
A2 a goal of mine is to have my ss be able to do personalized learning for a complete unit, we are starting that tomorrow!
Tuesdays we all send out Tweets on the Cool things kids are doing at
I'm having Ss create review games. We are playing next week
A2.2: think about the routines to set early next year to make the end of next year run smoothly. A solid May starts in August
A2. As we wrap up the year we are preparing our students to take their steps into next year.
I've started a new notebook for next year. As we work through units, I reflect on how to change it up next yr
yes she is!! To little and big humans alike!!
A2: Continue to listen as much in end as you did in the beginning of a change.
A2: Also need to finish with the beginning of next year in mind! How can I get Ss emotionally, socially, academically ready?
Love this language -the Ss aren’t done—they need to continue with next steps to build a strong start for next year.
Love this! https://t.co/7kRgh0WOhO
I've started a new notebook for next year. As we work through units, I reflect on how to change it up next yr
I'm guilty. Mad at myself for the lack of reflection via blogging that I have not done the past few wks/mos
A2: ending the year gives us a chance to figure out our priorities and focus for the next year.
a2 We saw leaders greeting their students by being on top of roof at the beginning of yr-we stole that idea for May!
What I am reflecting on now will guide my learning through summer. No such thing as taking summer "off." https://t.co/w0jhebjF8w
I keep hearing a lot about reflection. How do you keep this at the top of your lists as we close out the year!?
A2. Especially for students transiting (elem to MS. MS to HS) we are making sure they are ready for their new "beginning".
Thanks. If I don't write it down and keep track of it, I won't remember!
Jumping into while participating in & watching
Mindfulness is even more challenging in June! https://t.co/BvWsD8yo4o
A2: Continue to listen as much in end as you did in the beginning of a change.
A2: I run out of creativity, having Ss develop our lessons for next week
Q3: Describe what type of transition plans do you have in place for students to end well and begin strong next year.
A2 The results you desire should drive everything you do instead of maintaining status quo and then complaining about the results
Yes! Those connections r the ones to last and may be the most important transforming factor in Ss's loves https://t.co/WNvPieXrom
A1 Ending the school year by prioritizing relationships with Ss and Ts
A2: Look to summer opportunities for Ss to fill gaps and set up for success at next grade. Make it fun/engaging!
A3 I teach Spanish - talk about organizing notebooks/notes for easier use next year when looking up information
A3: I always make sure Ss know they can come to me next year for help
A3: Ss leave letters for next years class with advice & special moments they had
A3: Bringing students and parents in for student led conferences & goal setting. This has been VERY rewarding for all parties!
Best way to make sure students don't act like school year's over -make sure teachers don't act like school year's over.
A3: Step-up Day (meet your T this spring) & also new summer school for some K-2 Ss we are planning in July. Engaging and fun!
A3: My biggest thing is reviewing goals, setting new ones, always discussing future big picture ideas with individual students.
A3 Reminding S that goal setting is for ALL year, not just school. Also working with BYOD to lessen anxiety of loss of 1:1 device
I think all of you ladies are fantastic! True fan of the work you do!
A5. Rising 6th graders visit for a tour and Q/A session at the MS in May and again in August w/ Ps so they're ready when we start
A3: Changing positions, I developed a transition plan for myself, staff, & students for upcoming yr so I’ll hit the ground running
A3 sending home skill builders for families to use as refreshers, app lists, and writing journals trying to get resources home
A.2 . Empathy for the same kids I worried bout at start of year. How can we keep them involved w their learning in summer.
A3: I have Ss reflect on our year. Give me advice for teaching next year
A3 revisit not only goals but growth! Reflect on ss growth over the year!
Don’t feel guilty or upset. Think about what will you do instead? Fail forward! :) https://t.co/zL6JthJyiI
I'm guilty. Mad at myself for the lack of reflection via blogging that I have not done the past few wks/mos
A3 - Showing my now K Ss my continued relationships w/ last years Ss by inviting them into our room to be mystery readers
Ss are telling all of our Ts their learning preferences so we can know our Ss when they come to us https://t.co/iChliRoi0Q
Q3: Describe what type of transition plans do you have in place for students to end well and begin strong next year.
A3 GOAL SETTING. As Ss finish the year with assessments, looking to Su and Fa decide on where to focus. Ts do the same.
you do this at the end of the year? https://t.co/Pimim6GPXi
A3: Bringing students and parents in for student led conferences & goal setting. This has been VERY rewarding for all parties!
A3: I interview my students one on one to see what they think I could change for the upcoming year.
A3: has organized "fly up" (transition) meetings to talk students with outgoing and incoming Ts. Great idea.
A3 I'm making my Ss write a letter to next year's class. It'll make them reflect (end well), and help the next class start well
A3: Super pumped for Step-Up Day! Get to spend some time with my roster for next year on Friday. Building relationships NOW!
A3: I reflect on procedures that worked and didn't work, what am I changing
A3 Plans for back to school night and meeting parents early in the year.
A3: I hope I leave enough information for the new principal to continue our current traditions and help the kids through.
A3 - Lots of resources are sent home for summer work. Just found a STEM Summer one that my Ss are going to love!
A3: new job next year = new goals!
A3 Beginning to talk to students about what worked and what didn't in class. What do they think I need to change
This year, we are looking at MAP data to create intervention groups to out next school year.
the million dollar question...how do leaders get teachers to act like school isn't over?
Have several that their chromebooks are a lifeline. Was able to find 2 S Kindle Fires for the summer.
This is such an accomplishment~ and a great turnout. It’s a DIRECT reflection of your r’ship building. https://t.co/iQZyicr3ks
A3: Bringing students and parents in for student led conferences & goal setting. This has been VERY rewarding for all parties!
What a great experience! Do you think the Ss love this day as much as Ts?
A.3 is providing summer school for 40 K-3 S's to continue closing their reading gap. Excited 2 see the impact in fall!
, our EBD teacher who is going through his internship is calling it "step up" https://t.co/o0Bi1fm5M0
A3: has organized "fly up" (transition) meetings to talk students with outgoing and incoming Ts. Great idea.
important to give Ps the resources! I am hoping to stay active in their summer learning through
Yep! Offered 2 nights this month. Ss have grown since our last conf. in Mar. I want Ss & Ps to celebrate this!
Yes. This.
Have been guilty as charged, but I changed my mindset. https://t.co/S20cFeDUPR
Best way to make sure students don't act like school year's over -make sure teachers don't act like school year's over.
So important! I actually have prepared a google form w/ questions for Ss to evaluate my work as a teacher https://t.co/pwVPCsOHl3
A3: I reflect on procedures that worked and didn't work, what am I changing
hmmmmm what does the STEM one look like? I'm intrigued!!
We've brought the sixth grade from the other building to see the middle school so they have some level of comfort coming in.
encourage parents to work with their kids. My kids will be reading and doing math over the summer
How about model what is expected. Lead from the front! https://t.co/NNSUG4RFzS
the million dollar question...how do leaders get teachers to act like school isn't over?
I hope so! My current students always come back full of excitement!
great idea. Then you can easily see common trends.
It is always exciting when the Ps thank you for the resources! sounds intriguing!
I refused to count down the days this year. Just kept plugging along like I had all the time in the world. It helped
Great way to encompass student voice! https://t.co/pS7WDVvkYV
A3: I interview my students one on one to see what they think I could change for the upcoming year.
Mine has been an informal talk in class as they work on projects. They've been honest, which is helpful
A3) one of the strongest ways to transition is to keep it going until the end. Offer activities that keep it going over break!
Q4: Negativity often festers at this time of yr with many things to accomplish. What ideas do u have to build a positive culture?
Let me find the link for you! It was a free resource that has 8 STEM activities for Ss and Ps
A4 It is the end of the year, so we can't forget to have a little fun. Took a HS class outside to read one day. They loved it
I need to look into this! Thank you for striking my curiosity!
A4. Quickly handle discipline referrals
Invest in the kids that walk into class this week. Your influence may just change their lives forever.
a4: model being positive for Ss. This is the time for our best lessons
I get it. We tell Ps there is chance of change, but they love it b/c Ts start building relationships w/ them too!
A4: Celebrate, celebrate, celebrate. And chocolate.
A3: Avoid orientation during the summer when disengaged families rarely attend. Puts some S even further behind their peers.
Little things like this can make a big difference and still keep students in the routine of learning. https://t.co/t5yxVVkjOw
A4 It is the end of the year, so we can't forget to have a little fun. Took a HS class outside to read one day. They loved it
A4: Focus on sharing celebrations in the lounge and hallways w/ other Ts. Let the Ss know often how proud u are of them
our local community college has some cool camps for kids
Continue learning opps in district in summer! We have TQ dollars Ts can take adv of for summer learning https://t.co/cGcr77ZazN
the million dollar question...how do leaders get teachers to act like school isn't over?
I like this. Never a better time than now to do this. https://t.co/92sKHcwytc
A4: Focus on sharing celebrations in the lounge and hallways w/ other Ts. Let the Ss know often how proud u are of them
A4 student choices. "You still have to learn, how do you want to learn?!" Those relationship!
A4: Be empathetic about frustrations but offer suggestions and ask for ways to support.
A4: Honesty - let Ss know that we struggle with motivation now too - time to model perseverance & positive attitude. Dave joining
A4: Promote all the great things that are happening this time of year & celebrate anything & everything happening in classrooms.
A4. Continue to celebrate the great things that take place each day.
A4 My negativity tends to come with impatience. I need to remember to breathe, and remember they're kids. They are just excited
Q4 - We are participating in a picture a day challenge to remember all the awesome things that happen! https://t.co/AkILvs5lN2
A4: During walkthroughs, before leaving the room, pay Ss or staff a compliment about what I’m seeing. “Sorry to interrupt, but.."
A4 check your stress at the door and look for silver linings. Find the colleague that will call you out when you don't honor this
A.4 we give our T's a full day to goal set and reflect one on one w each student. So powerful and kids glow from one on one time.
All we have to do is "rewire" it! Ha! https://t.co/FBU8VKA6il
Q4: Negativity often festers at this time of yr with many things to accomplish. What ideas do u have to build a positive culture?
Q4: Replaced "the" with "our" our teachers, our district, our students, our parents.
they have ones just for girls in STEM
A5: Be visible & supportive. Offer small perks -- jeans, food, smiles. Celebrate success!
https://t.co/elZAsECnQ5
Q4: Negativity often festers at this time of yr with many things to accomplish. What ideas do u have to build a positive culture?
A4 Remain positive! Ss pick that up. Be encouraging and supportive. If it is Ts, share positives to change focus of conversation
A4 incorporated fun staff challenges to keep them engaged.We also have signed a pledge to remind us we are committed til the end.
A4 do that super cool thing that you felt you never had time for!
A4: Continue to love the kids and the teachers everyday. Overwhelm them with kindness.
A4: Celebrate as a school community! is 50! Learning a new tech tool & bringing in community 4 students to interview.
Q4
https://t.co/7JpFYb5LQ9
Q4: Negativity often festers at this time of yr with many things to accomplish. What ideas do u have to build a positive culture?
A4: Our amazing supt, gave away an additional personal day and he and covered the class all day!
It's hard. But I have to keep working at it
A4: Connections, positive energy, while working on research papers @ DDT & Peregrine Falcons,Ss watch live webcam of falcon nest.
A4: Commit to having fun! Be silly with the kids AND the adults.
A4 start the day w/ a Thank You note style (w/ music!) ss present 2 thnk u notes 2 Ss they've observed being helpful
Great mindset, Jeremy. This will rub off on the students and they’ll notice! https://t.co/lHIMtA6vqq
Invest in the kids that walk into class this week. Your influence may just change their lives forever.
A5: Build a culture that supports respectful disagreement. Includes more listening than speaking
Our district secretary had a fun Twitter challenge and the superintendent delivered lunch to the winner https://t.co/k5OGP8STsG
great fun and reflective as well!
A4 CELEBRATE! Take time to do the project u never have time for. Take learning out. Have "runners" take the lead & spread joy.
A4: Be a visible leader. Recognize and acknowledge wins. Be a model of energy and enthusiasm. .
Just keep working on relationships, letting kids know you care, and that they can trust you.
A4: Over the past week, I wrote 20 handwritten notes to staff to let them know that they matter and are appreciated.
A4) schools should be highlighting all the great things everyone did, not focus on rumors or negativity! Celebrate! Y'all did it!!
A4: Reframe every complaint to reconnect the complainer to the "mission."
Each T takes their own pic & posts it to the hashtag () then we all get to see the fun happening
There are few things more powerful than a well placed compliment.
You always know how to keep things in perspective https://t.co/wqHMyIpJOw
Just keep working on relationships, letting kids know you care, and that they can trust you.
Small change, big impact on culture. https://t.co/OQPyazNZV6
Q4: Replaced "the" with "our" our teachers, our district, our students, our parents.
Good stuff! https://t.co/MLwU45x1Tn
I am doing that with my students to be handed out on their last day! SHH! Don’t tell.
How does your Super decide what T gets the personal day?
Great reminders for us all!
A4 learning can take all forms. We had a multiple intelligences passion day-students chose which room based on their interests
and that made all the difference in the world! Kudos!! https://t.co/CGqvUq4qai
A4: Over the past week, I wrote 20 handwritten notes to staff to let them know that they matter and are appreciated.
Q5: What is something you tried in your classroom this yr for the 1st time? How did it go? What changes will you make next year?
yes!! We are having lots of brain breaks these days
awesome! Nothing beats a personal note! Way to go.
Completely random drawing as part of teacher appreciation week. Really cool, happened on Friday.
This seems to be the most powerful r'ship building tool. Way to share thoughts even during such a busy time of year!
my favorite. Nothing is better than a handwritten note in your mailbox!
This has been so much fun to see staff be uncomfortable at first, & see them succeed at something new! https://t.co/ADKMEgG53W
A4: Celebrate as a school community! is 50! Learning a new tech tool & bringing in community 4 students to interview.
A5: a murder mystery. I'm going to make different versions so word can't travel
They are the best and need to be reinforced when it starts flying! https://t.co/MHYQMvpKmJ
This seems to be the most powerful r'ship building tool. Way to share thoughts even during such a busy time of year!
Respectful disagreements are SO important to the culture of a team.
They notice everything. I love and appreciate their intuitiveness.
A5: I moved my desk out and went to all moveable furniture. Best thing I have ever done. https://t.co/EARhzRGOkm
Q5: What is something you tried in your classroom this yr for the 1st time? How did it go? What changes will you make next year?
Be a witness to the great! It's all around us. https://t.co/h8oJAi6IHR
awesome! Nothing beats a personal note! Way to go.
A5 Fell in love w/ self paced blended learning in math. Incredible exp, and exceptionally hard way to teach, BUT ohhh so worth it
A5 I taught a credit recovery English class this semester. It came up quick I want to make it more real world next year
A5: Ss blog this year for first time! It was great...next year I hope to start more engaging conversations w/ Ss blog comments
A5: Video reflecting - their instruction AND my coaching. Changes everything! Next level of reflection for both of us.
A5: I made a Google Form referral system for the HS...it worked pretty well but my summer will be dedicated to fixing those kinks.
A4. We're focusing on the best ever!
A5 - - It completely pushed me into the learning w/ Ss which was amazing!
A5 weekly personalized goal setting with action plans...hard to manage, GREAT student/family buy in
correct. And no, we are not "hunting or preying" upon those who don't run in our pack.
A5 as a principal I wanted to model trying new things so I did a blab and wrote a blog post!
Agreed A skill I worry is declining. Schools need to play a part in helping our students develop this skill.
A5 Minecraft!! Some kids are making their own Terabithia, using Minecraft. It looks awesome, and they'll write about it too!
A5: USHist PLC did novels with student choice and Lit Circles - big risk for us but very valuable. We'll make minor tweaks in '17.
A5: I played a new castle game. Ss loved it but didn't like other Ss marking theirs so might need to modify rules
Q5
https://t.co/fxMzYHH8HS
Q5: What is something you tried in your classroom this yr for the 1st time? How did it go? What changes will you make next year?
A5 More spontaneous conversation to build confidence in speaking FL. Step out of conversation to make Ss rely on each other not me
What platform did you use? I want to start next year! Going to ask parents to be "digital volunteers."
A4: Don't thank teachers for "all you do." Thank them for the specific things that make them awesome.
A5 I made it a point this year to talk to every student at least once a week. A real conversation. Want to continue next year
I would love to chat more about this w/ you. It is something that is on my todo list but I haven't found a system yet
A5: we started clubs this year. Will tweak to offer more and get kids even more excited! More students running the show.
Building sense and pride in our community! GREAT project! https://t.co/5lkAb2ghYP
A4: Celebrate as a school community! is 50! Learning a new tech tool & bringing in community 4 students to interview.
1st time winter reading challenge was a hit. I blogged- next yr I'll blog from a T standpoint; have my kids write in the blog
Would love to connect and hear about your experience with this. People + Pedagogy + Place = Possibilities.
A5: Hopped on the maker movement and LOVE it! Hope to build our library and create more ties to CC standards.
A5: I had teachers use Educreations to film their lesson for when they had a sub. It absolutely ROCKED!
A5: Worked hard to empower others by establishing teams within our settings. Worked very well, a few things to tweak, on the way!
I have a hard time with . Not many of my Ps are able to pay to have it go past 1 year. Thoughts?
I can share my google docs if you would like!
Q6 is right around the corner!
I have about 100 kids that I see in ELA classes each day. It started with writing conferences....
A5: Promoted growth mindset with T & S. Posted ...YET in every classroom to reference when S say they "can't." Embraced by all.
YES! Being specific is important! Makes it more meaningful. https://t.co/qGtDGb9l1X
A4: Don't thank teachers for "all you do." Thank them for the specific things that make them awesome.
Q6: What is something you did this year that went better than you thought it would?
Have a great week friends! Time to tuck the kids in :)
will be starting in 15m, stop on by
Being specific helps lessen the opportunity for it to appear generic.
That's awesome! Is it a building-wide expectation that Ts and Ss use it? Are you 1:1? Sorry for all the ?s!
A6 using technology! A lot! Trying new apps and programs, students never whined about "trying something new" I learned so much!
Wow this looks AMAZING! Thank you for the link that has pics. Love seeing it in action!
A6: Talking with Ts about the START model - ways to improve. I learned a lot from Ts and lots of reflection took place.
A6: I made a Google sheet that graded responses from Ss & based upon their score they would get an email confirming pass or retake.
A6 Reflective learning on part of Ss w/ immigration unit. Learned real compassion & sought different perspectives. Made real diff
A6: weekly update to parents and had kids record the audio message. So easy to get the word out on great things happening.
A6 consistent emails to families to provide resources or ask for help. Isolated skills were great this year bc of r'ship building
A6b having some of the same students for 2 years in a row.
New self pace math resource, new science resource, new social studies resource, AND 1:1 roll out. Crazy but ALL went awesome!!
A6 using LETRS for prek students from day one! They will rock the FAST test next year!
A6: I knew having a new director of student achievement would be great, but never new how great..
A6.2: If the Ss passed the quiz they would also be emailed a certificate & this certificate was presented to obtain iPad @ rollout
A6: I used for weekly FYI's to parents, very well received by families.
A.6 Building wide MTSS time wout walls. T's, Associates, everyone all in! Was fantastic.
A6: used student badges on lockers...the Friday celebrations have turned out to be Ss favorite part of the week
A6 - My Ss blogging. Last year it was hit or miss and this year it is every Tues & Thurs per their request.
yes! I can share my google docs with you as well!!
The thing that makes teaching so difficult isn't the hours, it is the intensity of the job.
Absolutely use it! I saw something similar on Twitter & made it fit for our school.
A6 for teacher appreciation week, I had my students pick a former T (and current, not me) and write a thank u note. T bawled 😍
was presented in the form of a competition w/ chocolate as the ending prize :)
Q7: “Know better, do better”… Describe a situation this fits with as you look ahead to next year.
Perfect! Get the Ss involved with P communication! https://t.co/1q6yQZn7IK
A6: weekly update to parents and had kids record the audio message. So easy to get the word out on great things happening.
That would be awesome! Thanks Kim!
A7 Create more learning supports with videos and PP so Ss can refer to them outside of class
A7: That means to continue to look for ways to improve & continue to model & lead the way to risk taking & learning from failure
A7: I know that good Ts don't use cookie cutter lessons year after year...get to know next years Ss & adjust to their needs
A7 our building as a whole needs to work on community support and buy in. Thinking of ways I can contribute to that.
A7: This is about continuing to look for ways to get better. Learning from failures and successes to push forward.
A7 don't be reactive to student skills and holes, be proactive with pretests
A7: keeping parents more informed by using remind to give them updates
A7: Definitely taking pieces of goal set next yr. Tweaking to make work in 1st gr. Thankful for willingness to share!
A7: creating my own math videos next year
Thank you for the great chat!
Good for you! Love the flipped classroom environment. https://t.co/mQSOm2CCi4
A7: creating my own math videos next year
A7 - Goal setting and S reflection on their own learning and finding the S passion within each S.
What a great hour! Feeling rejuvenated ready to get out there and make Monday matter! Thanks for sharing tonight on !
A7: There is a tension between "trust" and "accountability." I must do better at walking that tightrope.
Absolutely. I could see huge value in this, particularly with this class!
A7 Improve community w/i classrooms. T/S relations are important, but MS kids are very concerned with S/S relations & acceptance.
let me know how you roll this out, I might have to tweak mine!!
Beautifully written! This makes so much sense to me. https://t.co/TFthIT0Znp
A7: There is a tension between "trust" and "accountability." I must do better at walking that tightrope.
Thanks to my co-moderators and . Be sure to follow some new friends to grow your PLN!
Someday I just need to come be a fly on your wall and in room! You ladies rock!
Thanks for getting me geared up for the week! for awesome inspiration!!
Thank you for joining us & sharing your thoughts on . It is always great learning with all of you.
Thank you to co-moderators and . Getting it done since January 2016!
haha me too! So glad I got to be a part of this chat. Great Ts to learn from and share. Great week everyone!
