#wischat Archive

#wischat is a great way for Wisconsin educators to share teaching strategies, educational resources, and more.
Sunday December 4, 2016
8:00 PM EST
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:00 PM EST
    Don't miss #Wischat - Tonight's Topic: Keeping The Focus On Kids and Learning
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:02 PM EST
    Welcome back for the latest edition of #Wischat. Tonight's topic is: The December Dilemma - Keeping The Focus On Kids and Learning
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Please begin tonight by telling us who you are, where your from and letting us know what tops your holiday wish list this season. #Wischat
  • nsulla Dec 4 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Nancy Sulla here at #Wischat; creator of the Learner-Active, Technology-Infused Classroom #LATIC; pres @IDECorp; author of
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Hey, John. Jay, Principal from Merton, WI. Happy to be back on #wischat tonight.
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:04 PM EST
    The top of my wish list is enjoying time with family and friends. #WISchat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:05 PM EST
    John Gunnell, Principal of Jack a Young Middle School in Baraboo, WI. I have a ton of great books and CD's on my holiday wish list. #Wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:06 PM EST
    Good evening, thanks for joining us tonight on #Wischat @nsulla @IDECorp
    In reply to @nsulla, @IDECorp
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:07 PM EST
    - Hi Jay, thanks for joining us tonight on #Wischat
    In reply to @posickj
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Wishing everyone in my PLN health, happiness and wisdom this holiday season. #Wischat
  • MsLindseyDecker Dec 4 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Lindsey, Pre service teacher, currently attending UW-Platteville #wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Q1: The stretch between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a very hectic one. How do you keep students focused on learning? #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Hi #wischat ! Rita from St. Croix Falls (frozen north land) here!
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Happy to be here, John. Where are #wiamigos @PrincipalJ @CurtRees @twhitford @leah_whit @Joesanfelippofc @ReadByExample #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP, @PrincipalJ, @CurtRees, @twhitford, @leah_whit, @Joesanfelippofc, @ReadByExample
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:09 PM EST
    - Thanks for joining us tonight on #Wischat
    In reply to @MsLindseyDecker
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:10 PM EST
    - Good evening, thanks for joining U on #Wischat tonight.
    In reply to @ritaplatt
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:10 PM EST
    Q1: The stretch between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a hectic one. How do you keep students focused on learning? #Wischat
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1 Provide them choice and voice, time to collaborate, and show them you are interested in them and what they're learning. #WISchat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:09 PM EST
      Q1: The stretch between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a very hectic one. How do you keep students focused on learning? #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:10 PM EST
    #Wischat if you need credits try https://t.co/GEi1WubmiZ 3 grad for < $400, use code: rita10 for 10% off. We shouldn't have to pay $1000s
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:11 PM EST
    @AggieSalterITS - Thanks for being a part of #Wischat tonight.
    In reply to @AggieSalterITS
  • KayeHenrickson Dec 4 @ 8:11 PM EST
    #wischat #slateinwi #wiedu
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:11 PM EST
    A1 by focusing on standards giving them choice using menus ...making it even relevant. Holiday time is also hard 4 some of them #Wischat
  • yankee_todd Dec 4 @ 8:11 PM EST
    A1: I am starting to give Monday Morning motivational messages on the PA that focus on finishing! #wischat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:09 PM EST
      Q1: The stretch between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a very hectic one. How do you keep students focused on learning? #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:12 PM EST
    A1: By staying focused and on-task myself. By jazzing up the lessons a bit, allowing for extra movement and fun #Wischat
  • missreese13 Dec 4 @ 8:12 PM EST
    Hello! My name is Morgan and I am a pre-service teacher from the University of Wisconsin Platteville. #WISchat
  • MrRyanMiles Dec 4 @ 8:12 PM EST
    Ryan, elementary education major in my senior year at UW-Platteville #wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:12 PM EST
    always looking forward 2 #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:12 PM EST
    A1 Using more tech. Kids tend to focus in when on a Chromebook! #Wischat
  • GZittergruen Dec 4 @ 8:13 PM EST
    A-1: In order to keep the focus on learning students need opportunities to be engaged, challenged, and have the minds stretched! #wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:13 PM EST
    A1: The key to keeping students focused on łearning during this time of the school year is staying focused on łearning yourself. #Wischat
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:14 PM EST
    So great to see pre-service teahcers @MrRyanMiles @missreese13 @MsLindseyDecker on #WISchat
    In reply to @MrRyanMiles, @missreese13, @MsLindseyDecker
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:14 PM EST
    - Welcome. Thanks for joining us on #wischat tonight.
    In reply to @missreese13
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:14 PM EST
    - Hello. Thanks for joining us on #wischat tonight.
    In reply to @MrRyanMiles
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:14 PM EST
    - Hello again. Thanks for joining us on #wischat tonight.
    In reply to @yankee_todd
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:15 PM EST
    A1: The key to keeping kids focused on łearning is always engaging instruction. #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:15 PM EST
    Home 2 see my #Wischat @slateinwi this week! #slateinwi
    In reply to @slateinwi
  • MsLindseyDecker Dec 4 @ 8:15 PM EST
    A1: By keeping lessons fun and engaging for the students #wischat
  • nsulla Dec 4 @ 8:15 PM EST
    A1) Engage Ss in problem-based learning units all year; when Ss are engaged, and not compliant, there's no down time! #Wischat
  • EduGladiators Dec 4 @ 8:16 PM EST
    Tune in #EduGladiators LIVE Podcast Monday w/ @maverikcrq ▶️ https://t.co/SiWKy8nRbL #1stchat #21stedchat #APChat #mnlead #nbtchat #WISchat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:16 PM EST
    - Good evening Gary. thanks for joining us on #Wischat once again.
    In reply to @GZittergruen
  • MrRyanMiles Dec 4 @ 8:17 PM EST
    A1: you have to use creative and interactive lessons to keep students engaged in their learning #wischat
  • ebeling_mary Dec 4 @ 8:17 PM EST
    @gunnellAP A1(sauce):I think incorporating these holidays in all subjects is a great way to keep the students engaged #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • LisaDegnan1 Dec 4 @ 8:17 PM EST
    #wischat. good evening y'all ! Lisa from TX.
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:18 PM EST
    Hello #wischat! Heidi here, teach 5th gr. in Merton, WI. This is my favorite time of yr. w/ the kids! Keep learning fun & relevant!
  • missreese13 Dec 4 @ 8:18 PM EST
    A1) create lessons that keep you and your students moving! #WISchat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:18 PM EST
    - Welcome to #Wischat - Thanks for joining us tonight.
    In reply to @ebeling_mary
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:18 PM EST
    Hi #Wischat Popping in a few mins late! Ashley, 6th math
  • MCPTechDirector Dec 4 @ 8:18 PM EST
    #WISchat Agreed! This is a great time to encourage student agency.
    In reply to @posickj
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:18 PM EST
    A1: I also think movement is key & get outside if U can. I want to do the mannequin challenge related to math. Any ideas out there? #wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:19 PM EST
    - Thanks for being a part of #Wischat tonight.
    In reply to @LisaDegnan1
  • LisaDegnan1 Dec 4 @ 8:19 PM EST
    We focus on expository. Explain why being an ELF can be a challenging position. Have fun with what you teach! #wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:19 PM EST
    A1: Bring the awesomesauce. And ask Ss how they are doing-- this is not a great time for some. Be there for Ss who need you. #Wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:19 PM EST
    Q2: This can also be a stressful time for staff members. How can schools support staff members at this time of the school year? #Wischat
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:20 PM EST
    A2 I've done 12 days of Christmas with staff the last few years. Something special every day leading up to break. #wischat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:19 PM EST
      Q2: This can also be a stressful time for staff members. How can schools support staff members at this time of the school year? #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:20 PM EST
    U know ever since I read @gcouros I like the word empowering = using their interests, passion & skills 4 the future not engaging #Wischat
    In reply to @gcouros
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:20 PM EST
    - Hello Heidi, always great to have you here once again. #Wischat
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton
  • nsulla Dec 4 @ 8:20 PM EST
    A1) Engage students in #PBL Authentic Learning Units that connect to the spirit of the holidays while teaching content. #Wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:20 PM EST
    - Thanks for joining in tonight. #wischat
    In reply to @AGoTeach
  • mjreese Dec 4 @ 8:21 PM EST
    A1Keeping it fun and keep working on those relationships! #wischat
  • MCPTechDirector Dec 4 @ 8:21 PM EST
    A1 #wischat #hourofcode is a great way to add some excitement. And I am looking forward to #STEM @KromreyMS
    In reply to @KromreyMS
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:21 PM EST
    love it #WISchat
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:21 PM EST
    And let me tell you @gunnellAP & #wischat the "12 Days of Christmas" thing is very cool & very fun! Something to look forward to.
    In reply to @posickj, @gunnellAP
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:22 PM EST
    A2: My team does a great job of boosting morale. We #celebratemonday and #highfivefriday too! #Wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:22 PM EST
    A2: Yes, this stretch can be very stressful. It is really important to tune in to how colleagues are doing. #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:22 PM EST
    amen our Ss can't wait 4 this week #HourofCode #WISchat critical thinking, problem solving, global collaboration
    In reply to @MCPTechDirector, @KromreyMS
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:23 PM EST
    A2: This. #Wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:24 PM EST
    love reading the Friday staff nuts and bolts-- it's fun to share awesome ideas from afar! #WISchat
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton, @posickj, @gunnellAP
  • mjreese Dec 4 @ 8:24 PM EST
    A2 Festivus! #wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:24 PM EST
    A2: And hand-written thank you notes go a long way! #Wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:25 PM EST
    Q3: The holidays can be a really tough time for some kids and families, how can schools help to support those that are in need? #Wischat
  • ebeling_mary Dec 4 @ 8:26 PM EST
    A2: I think it would be fun to do a secret santa with staff to build a sense of community #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:26 PM EST
    A2: This. #Wischat https://t.co/GEi1WubmiZ
    • ritaplatt Dec 3 @ 10:23 AM EST
      Great deal for teachers who need grad credit 100% online. University quality at 1/4 the price! 10% discount code: rita10
  • nsulla Dec 4 @ 8:26 PM EST
    A2) Ts are stressed w/ all they have to teach & all of the interruptions between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Reduce Interruptions! #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:26 PM EST
    A2 #wischat our admin runs 12 days of Christmas thanks 2 @ERTOlson also #CelebrateMonday treats, hot chocolate & coffee before Ss arrive
    In reply to @ERTOlson
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    I look forward to his nuts&bolts & family S'more every Friday. #wischat
    In reply to @AGoTeach, @posickj, @gunnellAP
  • mjreese Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3 We have a giving tree to help students in need #wischat
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3 We have a giving tree in our commons that has tags. We take tags from the tree, buy the gifts, wrap them, and return them. #wischat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:25 PM EST
      Q3: The holidays can be a really tough time for some kids and families, how can schools help to support those that are in need? #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3: This quote has meant a lot to me this season. #Wischat
    • gcouros Nov 22 @ 9:02 AM EST
      "You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson via @MarciaDressel
      In reply to @MarciaDressel
  • mjreese Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3 Also important to take time to listen to students and be there for them #wischat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    Will do. I want to do it this week! Probably set the "hook" tomorrow and have them do it later in the week! #wischat
    In reply to @AGoTeach
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A3: We use advising to focus on Ss strengths during these weeks. Also, Ss share facts and info about their family traditions. #Wischat
  • MCPTechDirector Dec 4 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A2 #wischat this year we are doubling down on our wellness and mindfulness activities thanks to @betsy_delzer and @mcpasdwellness
    In reply to @betsy_delzer, @mcpasdwellness
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A3: it's important to recognize that not all kids look forward to spending time at home. For many kids school is their safe place. #Wischat
  • mjreese Dec 4 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A3 Sometimes all a student needs is someone to care #wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A3: All staff at @scfschools (ES) participate in "Adopt a Family" gift giving. #Wischat
    In reply to @scfschools
  • GZittergruen Dec 4 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A-2: Be sure to spread some timely holiday cheer and keep the work load manageable and focused on kids! #wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:28 PM EST
    I used to do this! We each filled out an info sheet, folded, staff picked one and got a lot of background with it!! #WISchat
    In reply to @ebeling_mary
  • nick_schumacher Dec 4 @ 8:29 PM EST
    A3. Invite community, business and industry partners to help with food pantries, secret Santa's and holiday stress relief/edu. #Wischat
  • LisaDegnan1 Dec 4 @ 8:29 PM EST
    Sometimes the best support is being compassionate & understanding. Hugs are free & needed. #wischat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:30 PM EST
    A3: Part 1: I think sometimes the best thing we can do for Ss is give them a free pass when they act up during the holidays. #wischat
  • missreese13 Dec 4 @ 8:30 PM EST
    A3) I love the idea of having a giving tree at school or donation bins for clothes and can goods! #WISchat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:30 PM EST
    Hugs, smiles, and kind words are always free. Amen. #Wischat
    • LisaDegnan1 Dec 4 @ 8:29 PM EST
      Sometimes the best support is being compassionate & understanding. Hugs are free & needed. #wischat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:30 PM EST
    A3: Part 2: We have no idea what private battles & stress kids are dealing w/ at home behind closed doors. #wischat
  • MrRyanMiles Dec 4 @ 8:30 PM EST
    A3: care about your students and their problems. Make your classroom and school a safe environment and an escape for the kids #wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
    A free pass, a short talk, and a bit of encouragement. The trifecta goes a long way when timing is right. #WISchat
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
    Already signed up. January 14th in Sun Prairie. #WISchat
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton, @AggieSalterITS, @EdCampMadWI
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
    A3: It important not to unwittingly "out" those students in poverty with well intentioned "holiday" activities. #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
    @gunnellAP we just did penny war 4 shop with the cop......also wish list for few anonymous families #wischat
    In reply to @posickj, @gunnellAP
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
    A3: One way we can help is to keep routines as consistent as we can. Many youngsters thrive on routine to combat chaotic feelings #Wischat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
    NICE! #Wischat
    In reply to @posickj, @AggieSalterITS, @EdCampMadWI
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:32 PM EST
    Amen! Be mindful and considerate. #Wischat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
      A3: It important not to unwittingly "out" those students in poverty with well intentioned "holiday" activities. #Wischat
  • nick_schumacher Dec 4 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3.2 Ss need extra compassionate ND patience during the holidays..there are some kids for whom being home for break is a nightmare #Wischat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:32 PM EST
    This is a great reminder, Rita...thank you! #wischat
    • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:31 PM EST
      A3: One way we can help is to keep routines as consistent as we can. Many youngsters thrive on routine to combat chaotic feelings #Wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:32 PM EST
    All Ss benefit from the "right to pass" and "right to participate" #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • nsulla Dec 4 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3) Focus Ss on what they can do to serve and help others; empower them to make a difference during this season. #Wischat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:33 PM EST
    OMG, Ashley! I do "play" or "pass" in my class all the time! #wischat
    In reply to @AGoTeach, @gunnellAP
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:33 PM EST
    #service #gratitude #Wischat
    • nsulla Dec 4 @ 8:32 PM EST
      A3) Focus Ss on what they can do to serve and help others; empower them to make a difference during this season. #Wischat
  • MsLindseyDecker Dec 4 @ 8:33 PM EST
    A3: Be someone they can lean on and talk to if needed. #wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:33 PM EST
    Poverty is a significant issue in many schools and schools need to engage in courageous conversation about how it impacts łearning. #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:34 PM EST
    love that #WISchat grown ups get cranky during holidays as well lol
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:34 PM EST
    A3: Singing Christmas Carols might also be a happy, pleasant, thing to do between now and Christmas! #wischat #smiles #love #hugs #free
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:34 PM EST
    We all have bad days when "pass" seems like the only option. Allows Ss to blend when uncomfortable #WISchat
    In reply to @MrsJones_Merton, @gunnellAP
  • nick_schumacher Dec 4 @ 8:34 PM EST
    A3. Ss need extra compassion and patience this time of year. For some Ss being home for break is a nightmare. #Wischat
  • GZittergruen Dec 4 @ 8:35 PM EST
    A-3: Create opportunities to feel valued, loved, and to experience true joy in giving and service! #wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:36 PM EST
    absolutely.unfortunately being that most Ts come from middle or upperclass they can't even imagine what survival mode is #wischat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:36 PM EST
    You're right, Nick & isn't that just heart breaking? That makes me so sad...makes me want to take them home w/ me. #wischat
    In reply to @nick_schumacher
  • twoguysde Dec 4 @ 8:36 PM EST
    Hey all 2 guys from Delaware! Subscribe and never miss our hilariously, informative videos for teaching https://t.co/vtZQ45BFFv #wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:36 PM EST
    Q4: Does your school/school district promote, limit or prohibit holiday activities at this time of the year? #Wischat
  • madisonteacher Dec 4 @ 8:36 PM EST
    Attn #wischat Ts I’m running for @WCSS1 prez! Say “I’m w/ Him! Make WCSS Great Again!” https://t.co/ued4kZa844 How can we support Wisco Ts?
    In reply to @WCSS1
  • twoguysde Dec 4 @ 8:37 PM EST
    A3: #wischat This is perfect timing for the holidays!
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:37 PM EST
    A3: Help students feel loved and valued with peer-created word clouds of compliments. #wischat https://t.co/fptiPTVwB8
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:37 PM EST
    absolutely practice empathy.... making a difference never 2 soon #WISchat #PureGenius
    In reply to @nick_schumacher
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:38 PM EST
    A4: We celebrate with decorations and parties the day b/f break. Also kids are going t see a Christmas play #Wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:38 PM EST
    A4: We have subtle decorations in lobby. 6th team planning a mondo day-before-break all grade quiz bowl. Not holiday, but pumped! #Wischat
  • KristalFloyd Dec 4 @ 8:38 PM EST
    Most definitely! We did a weekend poverty simulation last year and it opened lots of conversation. #Wischat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:33 PM EST
      Poverty is a significant issue in many schools and schools need to engage in courageous conversation about how it impacts łearning. #Wischat
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:39 PM EST
    A4 We have holiday concerts, a giving tree, and some classroom parties. Choir and band spread song in the community. #WISchat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:36 PM EST
      Q4: Does your school/school district promote, limit or prohibit holiday activities at this time of the year? #Wischat
  • missreese13 Dec 4 @ 8:39 PM EST
    A3) Also, holidays can be stressful for children who don't have great home lives, make sure we are making them feel cared about #WISchat
  • MrsJones_Merton Dec 4 @ 8:40 PM EST
    Love this, Rita! Thanks for sharing! #wischat
    In reply to @ritaplatt
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:40 PM EST
    A4: I would say that we currently are in the process of reexamining many of the traditional practices that were rarely questioned. #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:41 PM EST
    Will you share examples of practices that you need to question? #Wischat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:42 PM EST
    A4: I wonder how a kid who knows he's not getting all that much for Christmas feels about the annual Letter To Santa assignment. #Wischat
  • GZittergruen Dec 4 @ 8:44 PM EST
    A-4: We promote holiday activities and make efforts to involve all students (i.e., elementary Holiday program) #wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:45 PM EST
    I feel the same when Ss share after Christmas, things they received & than u have a s that says he got new socks :-( #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:46 PM EST
    - it's about being more inclusive of the various cultures that make up a school community. #Wischat
    In reply to @ritaplatt
  • MarciaDressel Dec 4 @ 8:47 PM EST
    A4 #wischat gving tree...found myself explaining it 2 youngster who is likely 2B be recipient - tho we usually tell Ss abt the gvng #Wischat
  • MCPTechDirector Dec 4 @ 8:47 PM EST
    #wischat And as we increase diversity we need to recognize a growing population that does not celebrate Christmas.
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:47 PM EST
    A4: My son's class asked kids to bring in a gift ranging from $5 to $15. That's too much. I don't like gift exchanges. #Wischat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:47 PM EST
    Have to run great reminder of holidays in school thank u @gunnellAP & @posickj #WISchat see u @slateinwi ? Love u @MrsJones_Merton !
    In reply to @gunnellAP, @posickj, @slateinwi, @MrsJones_Merton
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:48 PM EST
    True. Though, we live in a town w/ only 2 non Christian families (mine--Jewish) & one Muslim fam. #WISchat
    In reply to @MCPTechDirector, @gunnellAP
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:48 PM EST
    A4: Ss love sharing and hearing about different traditions. Learning lots about Hanukkah and Eid/Hijra. Amazing! #Wischat
  • GZittergruen Dec 4 @ 8:48 PM EST
    A-4: Friendship Stew activity in the preschool! We need to involve the kids in preparing for celebrations! #wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:49 PM EST
    Me neither. Gift exchanges promote a type of commercialism and greed that I dislike. #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • spiraledu Dec 4 @ 8:49 PM EST
    @gunnellAP we wrote to santa like a penpal. Tell him how our year went and wish him well in travels #wischat
    In reply to @nick_schumacher, @gunnellAP
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:49 PM EST
    Yes! Ss have so many unique and special traditions w/ religion and nationality! Let em share! #WISchat
    In reply to @MCPTechDirector, @gunnellAP
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:50 PM EST
    It's important to recognize that not all students celebrate Christmas. Where do they see themselves in our holiday celebrations? #Wischat
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:51 PM EST
    Q5: How can schools ensure that the łearning environment remains culturally responsive? #Wischat
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:51 PM EST
    We make it a point to talk about tradition for most religious holidays. Henna was a great topic this year! And food! #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:52 PM EST
    - Still our job is to teach. Kids should learn about traditions that are not necessarily theirs. #Wischat
    In reply to @ritaplatt, @MCPTechDirector
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:52 PM EST
    Great point! Totally true! #WISchat
    In reply to @gunnellAP, @MCPTechDirector
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:53 PM EST
    a4 agree celebrate Christmas around the world with google hang outs , learn different cultures that would b fun #WISchat
    In reply to @AGoTeach
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:53 PM EST
    A5: Create an environment in which you share, they share. Ss often want to talk about their good stuff! listen, make connections #Wischat
  • MarciaDressel Dec 4 @ 8:53 PM EST
    A5 #Wischat ask your librarian :) we have book ideas to bridge gaps, support diversity. Think of pairing stories, etc.
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:54 PM EST
    That's my most wonderful #librarysister! Always with the great ideas! #WISchat
    In reply to @MarciaDressel
  • AGoTeach Dec 4 @ 8:54 PM EST
    Theres so much to learn! Ss like to talk to families, too, about where traditions come from! #WISchat
    In reply to @AggieSalterITS
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:54 PM EST
    A5: As an educational entity, it is our job is to teach students about the great diversity of perspectives and traditions. #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:55 PM EST
    A5: Must say, our current political climate is HORRIBLE for many folks. We MUST teach that it's okay to be a Muslim, for sure. #WISchat
  • AggieSalterITS Dec 4 @ 8:57 PM EST
    yes do a google map with places their ancestors & families came from great visual u can do a google form & run it to maps #wischat
    In reply to @AGoTeach
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:57 PM EST
    Q6: What are some of the universal themes that relate to the holidays that schools can focus on with all students. #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:57 PM EST
    A5: Also lots of antisemitism rising...again. Must teach it is about LOVE & shared HUMANITY not religion or associated traditions. #wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:57 PM EST
    A5: Sorry for the mood kill. Dang. #WISchat
  • nick_schumacher Dec 4 @ 8:57 PM EST
    A5. Fortunately, in rural Alaska, we have plenty of opportunities to incorporate culture and local customs into our curriculum! #wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:58 PM EST
    A6: Kindness #wischat
  • posickj Dec 4 @ 8:58 PM EST
    A6 Being thankful for what we have. Be nice to one another. #wischat
    • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:57 PM EST
      Q6: What are some of the universal themes that relate to the holidays that schools can focus on with all students. #Wischat
  • CastIron_Ken Dec 4 @ 8:58 PM EST
    Pure 1930 iron skillet seasoned with organic coconut oil for use in a modern day kitchen. #wischat @Foodimentary #80sChristmasList @tasty
  • gunnellAP - Moderator Dec 4 @ 8:59 PM EST
    A6: Peace, respect, tolerance, giving, service, family, to name just a few. #Wischat
  • ritaplatt Dec 4 @ 8:59 PM EST
    A6: #gratitude #wischat
    • CourtneyKofeldt Dec 3 @ 10:50 AM EST
      A2: Creating Gratitude Wheels- simple but can lead to wonderful conservations and reflections (for Ss and Ts) #satchatwc
  • ERTOlson Dec 4 @ 8:59 PM EST
    A6: Sorry for the late arrival. But, compassion, generosity, friendship, kindness, acceptance. Good character and more! #Wischat
  • MarciaDressel Dec 4 @ 8:59 PM EST
    A6 #wischat light. Think candles for starters but also how N hemisphere starts part of revolution back to more light 1/2