Have a couple minutes to give our #DigCit student blogs feedback on the results of us Googling ourselves? Thank you! Please RT. https://t.co/KrEbQ0MtSL#UTedchat
Hey guys, I’m Kenny Assmus. I’m our schools PLC coach - Willowcreek Middle School. 1st year outnif classroom. I miss it, but am excited to make a bigger impact on all teachers and students at my school! #UTedChat
Hey all, Derek, Library Media Coordinator and Digital Learning Coach in @washk12 excited to check into #UTedChat tonight. Especially since I’ve missed a couple of weeks. How’s my years so far?
A1: I have always been happiest while teaching. Plus while exploring other careers in moments of frustration (like most of us have) I usually realize that most other careers are relatively boring. #UTedChat
A1: I became an educator because of the great influence teachers and coaches had on me. I stay because our world needs educators more than ever! We can make a difference! #utedchat
Totally past my bedtime! Deborah here. Social Studies teacher in @Graniteschools popping in for tonight's #UTEdchat
A1: I became a teacher because I was a TA at BYU and discovered the rush of helping people experience 'lightbulb moments.'
I had an opportunity to start a new school from the ground up. Something I wanted to do since my Child Dev undergrad days. I stay to build a school for the students who don’t get school. #utedchat
I’m loving seeing all the students from Juab HS! Welcome to your first (and hopefully not last) #UTedChat. Y’all are always welcome whenever you wanna hang with us old farts, I mean, amazing folks! Way to go @KrystleBassett & @juabwasp1! Great kids!
A1 part 2: I am tempted to leave on occasion (I could make a LOT more money in my other job, or switching careers) but I don' think I would find fulfillment or the same level of enjoyment. #UTEdchat
A1:I came from industry. I went back to school because I needed to help students learn and find a passion for doing good and learning. School want easy for me as a kid. I needed to help others succeed. #UTedChat
It’s weird being out of the classroom, isn’t it? While I’ve found it to be VERY different, it’s actually pretty cool because now the students are ALL your students in a very literal sense. At least that’s how I see it. #UTedChat
A1 part 3: It also helped that I had an AMAZING AP Euro teacher in high school and a few other teachers who really shaped my life in positive ways, despite all my moving around as a child. I want to pay that forward too. #UTEdchat
A1 pt. 2: The other big reason I stayed in education (although my roll has changed) was because of a couple of very good mentors. Without them I would have changed to an entirely new industry. #UTedChat
A1 It May sound cheesy, but I felt like I was pushed by God because there was NO WAY I was gonna be an educator and here I am. It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Definitely not the easiest, but one of the best. #UTedChat
It's good to stay grounded in the profession. Too many teachers leave the classroom and lose touch with the realities of the day to day grind after a few years. It can be an exhausting labor of love. #UTEdchat
Q2: "Everyone says that relationships matter most. What is one thing you do to connect with your students? Why does it work?" #UTedChat@Makayla46612690
A1.5 What keeps me in Education? The fact that I am making a difference every day (or at least I hope I am) for at least one student and sometimes many more. Being an educator is THE hardest thing I’ve ever done but also the most rewarding work out there. #UTedChat
Good mentoring is SO important, and not always what we deliver to new teachers, unfortunately. I wish the leadership in the sate put more emphasis on this - it would help address the teacher retention problem. #UTEdchat
A2: #UTedChat As a student at Juab High School, I've got to say the biggest connections with teachers are when the teacher takes time to just ask me, "are you ok?". It doesn't even have to be when I'm having a bad day, just when the teacher is asking with genuine curiosity.
A2: Going to my students' events (sports, plays, practices, concerts, etc) made a huge difference in my student relationships and ultimately my classroom management. #UTedChat
And that’s exactly how I look at it. In the classroom I was helping 25-30 kids per year. Out of the classroom I’m helping 25-30+ teachers a year and they’re helping MANY more students. It’s exponential help and it’s awesome! #UTedChat
A2: Tells stories while I teach, be really funny, talk about my issues in light of what I’m guessing they’re struggling with academically. Dispel the burdensome lie of perfection. #utedchat
A2: love the question because this is what it’s all about. Greeting students at th front doors of the school has been awesome for me. They love it. Going to their events/games/performances. Learning what they like and talking to them about it. #priceless#UTedChat
A1: My cooperative teacher is in an art class and he will give students free time and instead of sitting at his desk he interacts with them to see what they’re doing, and sometimes join in the conversation. #UTedChat
A2: One thing I am finding that I struggle with more than ever this year is making eye contact...because I am in a computer lab and I don't see their faces, I see computer monitors...and it makes me sad. #utedchat
This is a SPOT ON answer why many teachers stay in education. If you don’t have a passion, you better 1) find it, 2) fake it ‘til you make it, or 3) find something else to do. I think options 1 & 2 are the best ones. #UTedChat
A2: I try so hard to remember all the names. I'm better with faces. I smile and say Hi, I use names as often as I can. I ask how students are and offer compliments as often as I can. I also fall short all. the. time. But I keep trying. #UTEdchat
A2: seeing kids outside of the classroom is super important. Go to their games, performances, say hi to them at dances. It forms a stronger connection and you see each other as humans. #utedchat#teachersarehumantoo
A2: Students are masters at reading our character and intentions. When we show genuine care and interest in their lives they will engage learning! I see this everyday! #utedchat
So important to keep things real! That makes it safe for students to be real. No one wants to pretend to be perfect all the time, or worse, remove any question thereof. We can all just try and try again together and I'm good with that. #UTEdchat Laughing together is good too.
A2 One thing I used to do in the classroom was treat my students like little people and trust them with the ability to express and share actual emotions without being punished. I helped them learn HOW best to share those emotions, but let them be humans. #UTedChat
A2 pt. 2: I heard the suggestion recently to make a list of all of your students from memory and make an effort that week to get to know the last 3-5 students you remember to add to the list. #UTedChat
Oh yeah... That was the other thing I was supposed to work on tonight. Darn it! I'll cram in a debate prep seminar tomorrow somehow. This will be my first attempt and I'm going in almost blind. But I'm willing to learn from painful experience ;-). #UTEdchat
A2.5 Example, I would let them know if I was having a difficult day and ask them to respect me in what I was going through and allow them the same opportunity. If they were having an off day and I knew, I’d ignore them and not call on them unless I HAD to. #UTedChat
A2: I connect with my students through personal interactions and knowing what they are about. For instance, today we were in the middle of a lesson and I said... "It's over 9000!" just for my 2 huge Dragonball Z fans. #utedchat
I taught 4th and 5th grades and LOVED it! I only left because one of my mentors and friends suggested I take a different job as a way to stretch myself. It was a good thing. But I still miss my Elem crew. #UTedChat
In my field experience my cooperative teacher said she manages by having a set time at home she works on grading papers then when the time is up she spends time with her family or gets home related things done. #UTedChat
I am very intentional about pronouncing names correctly and tell students to kindly correct me if I mess up because it’s important to call people by their names. And it’s especially important to call students by their correct name. #UTedChat
Connecting with students it really as simple as asking if they’re okay. We need them to know we care about them and want the best for them. Thanks @AlloaDay for sharing! #UTedChat#edchat
A2: #UTedChat As a student at Juab High School, I've got to say the biggest connections with teachers are when the teacher takes time to just ask me, "are you ok?". It doesn't even have to be when I'm having a bad day, just when the teacher is asking with genuine curiosity.
A3 I am tired a lot, but I have learned to set boundaries. I know that I'm not as effective as a teacher if my family life is stressed. I discovered what I'm passionate about and learned to say "no" to things that aren't as important to me. #UTedChat
A3: You don't. There is so much to do and there are so many needs it simply isn't possible to do everything. Scheduling is important, collaborating is important, and sometimes we must triage. We do what must be done and hope the most important things can be done too. #UTEdchat
A1: My Why? as an educator stems from the belief that I can be a powerful advocate for all children and that in helping them reach their potential they can change their world. Heaven knows they change me for the better! #utedchat
A3: I once asked a mentor how he kept up with teaching multiple preps plus coaching. His response: "I'm not as good of a teacher during the season if that's what you're asking." This was very calming to me and helped me understand the reality of busy teachers. #UTedChat
A3: I don’t know if it can ever all be done. You can always find something else to do and I mean that in the best way possible. You make improvements each year. You learn how to watch TV and grade/prepare lessons at the same time. But never forget your family time #UTedChat
It's absolutely true. I feel bad about some of my extra duties because they take me away from planning as well, designing as good of curriculum as I want to use, etc. But I also love what I do as a leader in my school. I wish there was time for these other duties. #UTEdchat
A3.2: More advice from a mentor, pick a time to go home every day. Figure out a way to get done in class what you can't get done in that time. Teachers don't have to fulfill the stereotype of overworked and at school until late at night. #UTedChat
I worked tirelessly to help my students get over the falsity of perfection. It was so difficult for some but very rewarding to help them create a #GrowthMindset and be willing to try and mess up and then try again. So amazing! #UTedChat
I'm better at this than I used to be - I came to the realization that bringing work home was just an extra workout. It's about a 50% chance I'll even look at it once I'm home, so I tend to leave work at school more now. But CANVAS... It's too easy to work from home. #UTEdchat
A3: Important to find balance in life/work integration. Administrators should always find and create ways to support our teachers and staff with family first. #utedchat
A2: Relationships matter! As an assistant principal I have about 350 students assigned directly to me. My goal is to meet each one of them in my office. I want to know how they Achieve, Engage & Contribute to our school & how I can support them in their journey! #UTedChat
A3: That's my GIF #exhausted...
Sometimes I don't get it all done. I'm dealing with a mom with terminal illness, a high school freshman with special needs, a spouse, dogs, cats, my master's program and 130 students. I give myself a break and take care of it in chunks. #utedchat
A3 Here’s a secret, Teachers NEVER get “it” all done because teaching is not something that you can ever finish. You just have to set some limits and then TRY to stick to them. I’ve been much better his year, but it’s hard. Balance is key. #UTedChat
My parents are both educators so I’ve grown up around it and seeing the people’s lives they have touched throughout their teaching years inspires me to want to do the same. #UTedChat
A4: idk if I would tell my child to become a teacher. Honestly, it's tough sometimes. But the world needs teachers, now more than ever. If you really love it, it can help outweigh the bad. #utedchat
My parents are both educators so I’ve grown up around it and seeing the people’s lives they have touched throughout their teaching years inspires me to want to do the same. #UTedChat
A4 Definitely. If that's what she wanted to do. It's an incredible career with the opportunity to make a real difference...but...it's not for everyone. If you're not passionate about it, teaching can be overwhelming. #UTedChat
I still struggle with making time for me that isn’t just sleep, but I’m trying. I replaced the Energizer Bunny and I’m amazed at how much she did. I really don’t think she slept at all. So please take time for yourself. #UTedChat
@KrystleBassett A4: I would not tell my kids to become a teacher as their first option. Maybe a plan B. Because it doesn’t pay much & there’s a lot of take home work. I see teaching as a very selfless job, so it also depends on their personalities. #UTedChat
This is what I'm doing this year. I need my home to be home. Besides, the kitchen is being "remodeled" and there's just no room. #ikeakitchen#stillinboxes#utedchat
In reply to
@KBeddes, @MrJFawson, @KrystleBassett, @erdmann_jamie
A4 I think many of our children will go into education. For many of us teaching is the family business. I know the amazing examples in my family influenced me. #UTedChat
A4: Right now? No. Things aren't as bad as they were, but a lot of public discourse is still decidedly negative towards educators. There's not respect for the profession like there should be. I won't tell you what someone called me on FB today...but it was NOT nice. #UTEdchat
A4 if they want to do it cause they really want to do it, and not cause they want follow in my footsteps, and then of course have a firm understanding of what being a teacher means, then I’m all for it but it has to be their idea #UTedChat
A4: It depends on which child... There's one that just wouldn't be able to handle it... One that was planning on it and went into IT... One that was a para for a while... and one that will probably teach art. And I would tell them to follow their heart... always #utedchat
A3: I’m throwing balance out the window! When I’m home... I’m home. When I’m at school... I’m at school. I give myself permission to be human and to live my life. #utedchat
A4: My kids are spoiled. My wife and I are both educators and they have seen the luxuries of breaks and weekends free. I love education and think it’s great. I would love it if they would teach, but it’s not for everyone. Too political? #UTEdchat
I’m loving all the honesty of the teachers in #UTedChat tonight. Teaching can (and will if you’re not careful) take over your whole life. You have to set boundaries and stick to them for a better rounded life as an educator. #UTedChat
A4 part 2: To be fair though, I don't have a child. If I did, and they had a gift and a love for it, then of course I would be supportive & honest about the challenges. It's not all butterflies and unicorns. You want to make a difference, but need to earn a living. #UTEdchat
I think it definitely does. Plan A is obviously where your passion lies, follow that instead. Plan B means you have other things on your mind, other things that are drawing your attention way. I think how you teach would certainly be impacted. #utedchat
Q5: "I want my students to listen and learn, but I've heard they won't learn from teachers they don't like. How do you gain respect as a teacher?" #UTedChat@meganr0013
A4: I am an educator because my mom is an educator. I would be honored if my children wanted to be teachers. I would tell them that days are hard but in the long run it’s been one of the most satisfying things I’ve done. Second only to being their mother. #utedchat
It's true. I need to do a better job of balancing my life. It feels selfish though. This is why I hate teacher movies. They kill themselves to make a difference and that's a hefty price. #UTEdchat
A4: I would support them in their choice but I would be very honest about the pros and cons. I think any job has pros or cons and the most important thing is having a passion for what you do to help you get through the difficult times. #UTedChat
It's weird how teachers aren't treated like professionals. I have two degrees but yet, my job is somehow seen as just anyone can do it? Um, no. #utedchat
A4: in the future when I have kids I would tell my kids to choose what they wanna do in their future but I love the idea of being able to help kids through life so yes I would definitely tell my future children or even my students to be a teacher! #UTedChat
Our profession unfairly gets the blame for many of the ills of society, but we are a resilient tribe and we believe in a better future! Our kids count us everyday and you all deliver! Brighter days ahead! #utedchat
A5: I think this goes back to Q2? Ss feel respected when we care about them. We do this by demonstrating that care. We also do this by establishing a safe environment for them to take risks and make mistakes. #utedchat
I’ve always been one who believes in honesty, regardless of how difficult it may be to get around it. I try to make sure I point out both the happy and the difficult so people coming into education know some actual facts. But like I said earlier, it’s the best. #UTedChat
A5: All of the things we’ve been discussing are the things you have to do. Be yourself. Get to know them. Go to their events. Be present. Set high expectations. Provide support. Be passionate about what you do and teach. #UTEdchat
A5: Obviously we have to treat everyone, especially students with respect, even when they test us. A big piece of that is consistency. It's also important to be real, accept them as they are, and work with them to solve problems. #UTEdchat
A5: I feel like the answer to this one is fairly simple to gain respect from your students you must treat them with respect first and then youll receive it in return #UTedChat
Well, their well-being is more important than my grade book. I function accordingly. I don’t see curriculum I see students. I see needs. I search for strengths. #utedchat
A5: I think there needs to be a distinction between being liked as a teacher and being disliked (I think it's possible that neither are especially true). Gaining student respect is something different also.
#UTedChat
And yet, coaching is an important way to connect with students and reach them in ways you may not be able to in the classroom. Coaches do amazing things. #UTedChat
A5: You can't force someone to respect you. You can only listen and do your job and do your best and hopefully it works with the kids and they see you as someone worthy of respect. But you can't demand it. Usually that method backfires. #utedchat
@KrystleBassett A5: a way teachers gain my respect is by caring about my personal life as well as my education life by asking about sports I’m involved in. Also showing me respect. #UTedChat
I am seriously annoyed when people get all excited about my second job. It's been my experience that teaching is MUCH more demanding, challenging, and yes, rewarding. I'm not 'just' a teacher. I am a PROFESSIONAL educator. People who think it's easy are wrong. #UTEdchat
It's weird how teachers aren't treated like professionals. I have two degrees but yet, my job is somehow seen as just anyone can do it? Um, no. #utedchat
Hello I'm Gracie I'm a student at juab high school and I'm thrilled to be apart of this conversation and hear what all you amazing teachers have to say!!! #UTEdchat
Not just blamed - expected to FIX all the ills of society! It's crazy all the things I'm asked to do in the limited time I have my students each day. But I'm a good soldier and will soldier on, doing the best I can with what I have every day for my students! #UTEdchat
A5.2: I also think that we need to keep in mind what respect means in different cultures. Respect probably means different things to a white middle class girl compared to a inner city African-american boy. #UTedChat
A6: A good day... I love when my students are nice to each other. When I see them show kindness. Learning the math lesson is cool too, but the kindness thing makes my heart soar. #utedchat
A4 I have always felt that it’s important to let kids decide for themselves what they wanna do with their future careers. I wouldn’t stop them, but I also don’t want to push them. You have to feel a passion for teaching to last and I wouldn’t want to force someone in. #UTedChat
As a Plan B teacher, I can honestly say that my past experiences only enhance my teaching. I can incorporate my passions into my teaching and I believe it makes me a better teacher. #utedchat
A6: A good day is one where students get to take charge of their learning, they are excited about what they are doing and I get to support where I can. #utedchat
A6: As an administrator it’s so easy to get stuck in the office with managerial things. The best moments are when I step into classrooms and I’m immersed into all the fantastic things our students & teachers are doing! That’s where the magic happens! #UTedChat
A6: Seeing one kid get it. Seeing a student help someone out. Helping another teacher see and learn something new that they’ll use in their classroom. So many things...#UTEdchat
A6 (continued): Sometimes it feels like alchemy, those good days. You aren't quite sure the mix of ingredients that creates that magic but you are grateful for it nonetheless #utedchat
A4.5 I grew up in a family business & was set on taking it over. But as I started to feeling the “call of teaching” I suddenly had anxiety about leaving the family business. It was a challenge & if I had pressure from my parents to stay it would have been 100Xs worse. #UTedChat
A6: A prepped day. Lessons that diverge beyond the day. Students want to come back. Projects make me happy. We’re going to go nuts on one starting tomorrow. #utedchat
Thanks everyone for a fun #UTedChat tonight. Make sure to follow some of the people you met tonight. I love and value the connections I've made here! Sweet dreams!
