#122edchat is a weekly conversation designed to help inspire educators across the globe to reach their greatest potential in service of others. Megan Hacholski (@megan_hacholski) and Michael Abramczyk (@_on11), along with guest moderators, lead each week with a different focus tied to their strengths and areas of expertise.
Good evening and welcome to #122edchat! @khoggardGRT
and I are excited to have you join us this evening.
Share your name, location, role in education and invite a Champ for kids to the conversation!
Hi! Vanessa Heller here from Southern CA: #inquiry#pbl and #GiftedEd trainer, middle school humanities teacher, ELA Dept. Chair, Tech Innovator, Peer Coach. #122edchat
Me...I might be rather limited tonite. I'm at my youngest daughter's (10) first orchestra concert. Plus, our oldest (13) is playing piano accompaniment for them! Pretty awesome night. Going to do my best via cell phone to keep pace with this face-paced conversation in #122edchat.
Hey all! Phil from Northern Virginia. I teach 6/7 US History I&II and am the founder of #waledchat (Thurs @ 9pm ET) and #Edusations (Youtube). Thrilled to be here! #122edchat
Lesley, I am in Delaware and teach 11th grade English, Journalism, and AP Lang. I would love to invite @DownsDHSDAB1 to the combo. He is a big time #champforkids#122edchat
Q1: “Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up”
Think of an example of a time you refused to give up. Share your driving force and the outcome. #122edchat
What is up #122edchat ? This is George from rainy So Cal. Haven't chatted in a while, and I'm already online for another, so I figured I would double dip.
A1: I refused to give up when it came to developing a solid curriculum for the course I'm teaching this year. It didn't exist before now, & it won't ever be offered again, once our STEM Lab opens for the 2019-20 SY. BUT I knew these Ss deserved the best! #122edchat
A1: As a Reading Specialist, I have the pleasure of working with students & teachers. Sometimes, a colleague will begin to lose hope & anything I can do to support them and help them regain their confidence and feel like a champion is worth all the "sweat and tears." #122edchat
A1: I never give up on breaking through a person's potentially tough exterior and trying to share in who they are. Mostly I'm driven by an outgoing and curious nature. It's great to see a kid smile when you ask questions about their life outside of school. #122edchat
A1 I never give up! I may put a certain issue aside for a bit (for sanity’s sake), but when it’s time to act, I do! I think I am hard-wired to be assertive & pushy. A kid in need, a program to improve (or get rid of), etc., I will wear you down until “it” gets done. #122edchat
Q1: “Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up”
Think of an example of a time you refused to give up. Share your driving force and the outcome. #122edchat
A1 - When I first got into teaching almost 30 years ago it was tough finding a job. I had to sub then switch districts. In the end, it is all about kids. That still stands today! #122edchat
A1: Becoming a Google Innovator (#GoogleEI) called on perseverance I didn't know I had. Three attempts were needed and a realignment with my WHY.
#122edchat
A1: Many setbacks & delays, but each day I get to come back & try something different. It's easy to buy into what others say/think, but having positive voices that encourage here on Twitter are helpful to keep motivated. Plus, the Ss! They are our best "mirrors". #122edchat
Hi all #122edchat! Kristen from PA. I teach 6th grade science.I am known around these woods for complaining about non firing hamstrings and hip flexors and my penchant for chocolate cake. In case you’re wondering, this is how my progress in PT is going and it’s driving me INSANE
A1: I imagine others can echo this story. In the past I had a really rough year and thought about hanging up the gloves of teaching. However, my desire to grow, improve, and do what God called me to helped me learn. #122edchat
A1: my first gig as a Head if school was wrought with challenges. I was 30 years old and we had lost almost half of our students. I found people that believed that our better days were ahead of us! #122edchat
A1: when I bought my wedding dress one size down. I followed a diet, journaled, and worked out twice a week. This was when I was doing my student teaching though! 😂 #122edchat
A1: I am new to teaching math and content and have had to work very hard to learn everything so that I can give my students everythjng they deserve. #122edchat
A1 My parents don't have HS diplomas, so I'm plugging along trying to do better for myself and my family as a whole. There's lots of struggles we all face along the way. Some look like struggles in the moment but in end, are just a step in the process to now #122edchat
A1: I’m in a pursuit to making social studies as engaging and empowering as I can. I’ve been working on this for a while and continue to work on it each year. #122edchat
A1: I can’t say that I am one to give up. But I do have to remind myself that I can’t always be perfect like I think I have to be. As the years go on, I realize to step back from the stress & looking at it from an outsider helps me to know I have met expectations. #122edchat
A1: Algebra 1 was a struggle for me. I came from middle school with huge gaps. Mrs. Allen was a life saver. She was so patient and kind. She truly got me through high math. #122EdChat
A1. Graduate college
School and I didn’t gel, but I knew I wanted more than where I was in life. Focused on the future I wanted. And now I go to school for work. Try to relate with the students that have the same struggles I did.
#122edchat
Blake Roberts working as a Learning Specialist at Chadwick International School located in South Korea. Originally worked in Southwest Virginia prior to this as a sped teacher! #122edchat
A1: current school yr. I refuse to give up on building culture, it's my why for staying. People are beginning to see the changes in what we are all doing - it takes a village. #122edchat
A1 I’m in year three. Third school. I think I’ve found my home. My never give up is a being the one in the room who always seems to want to do things differently. #122edchat
A1: My driving force is the fact that I refuse to give up and like to prove people wrong. Tell me I can’t, and I’ll show you how wrong you are #122edchat
Q2: “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.”
Share a time this year that a plan you created ended with a “punch to the face”. How did you move forward? #122edchat
A1: Everyday, I keep wondering if all of the passion I posses, is going to make me a shooting star, and I’ll burn out. But. I. Don’t. I keep coming back. I step back in the ring, day after day, fighting for these kids. The outcome is still being written. #122edchat
A1: Hmm I can't think of a specific example at the moment, but when I'm really passionate about something, I have a hard time letting it go. I keep tweaking it and looking at it from different perspectives & gently encourage people to keep going too. #122edchat
#122edchat A1: Cannot give up on developing a curriculum that meets the needs of my students and is relevant to their lives. It’s always a process of creating, implementing, and analyzing the results.
A1. When I am in a different or new environment (and maybe not the most comfortable), it can be daunting. I try to focus on making at least one connection with a student and then grow from there. #122edchat
What's interesting about social studies is that many of us heard only one side/perspective when we were in school (from my experiences). I thinking bringing all sides into the picture help to make it interesting and certainly a truer account #122edchat
Hi #122edchat! Setting up some tweets while in line! Marisa Thompson, HS ELA, USD PD, blogger at https://t.co/kdYhDOKsol, co-host of #PLNedchat! Carlsbad CA (don’t worry; we have passes & are here for three hours every few weeks) The questions and the people are too good to miss!
A1.There have been multiple meetings about students that I must be the advocate for the child for a variety of reasons. When it comes to students my passion for doing what is right is the driving force. We must dig deeper and fight for every student, every day. #122edchat
A2: After assigning static IPs to #RaspberryPi boards & feeling on top of the world that they were finally working, tech team & I realized that we had essentially stolen those IPs from Ss Chromebooks & they could no longer connect to WiFi....or their MAP testing. Oops! #122edchat
A2: Very disappointing to try and share a positive message with others and then people you don't even know misunderstand and critique based on what they interpreted the message to be. We need to do better at encouraging & clarifying rather than assuming & criticizing #122edchat
A1: I refuse to give up on my Ss every day. Some of them have had a very positive outcome and the others, I'm still waiting on the positive outcome! #122edchat
#122edchat A1 I am currently in the process of publishing my 1st book "The Story of Always Believe" SO MANY BOOK EDITS!!! Got to get it right, but a math teacher having to "gramamrize" a book = not a good combination. Blessed to have close friends help me out. NEVER GIVE UP!
A1: I have often refused to give up when trying to recruit great educators. I try to convince them that coming to our school will be a worthwhile and life life-changing experience. It doesn’t take long for them to see it’s true. #122edchat
Q1: “Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up”
Think of an example of a time you refused to give up. Share your driving force and the outcome. #122edchat
A2 Nothing this year so far, but last year I tried out #Hyperdocs and found them useful but even more time consuming. I had to learn to prioritize certain activities and lessons in the #hypedoc over others. Still working on this since instructional time is so precious #122edchat
A1: When I knew it was best for kids, I always fought for them. As an #educoach now, I still fight for kids but I also fight for teachers! I champion for all! #122edchat
Q1: “Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up”
Think of an example of a time you refused to give up. Share your driving force and the outcome. #122edchat
A1: I took a risk and started a podcast with the goal to inspire teachers with short anecdotes and messages each week. I’m now 111 episodes in and the risk was totally worth it (https://t.co/qLTB34FHK0) #122edchat
A2: Unfortunately, there have been a couple face punches this year. I shake it off, vent to my tribe, and then get right back to it like it never happened. #122edchat
A1 W/o breaching any info, I'll say, the easy way out is to give up and walk away from a situation that seems hopeless. My driving force, we're all that some of our babies have. #nevergiveup#122edchat
A1 After about 7 years I almost left education. It wasn’t what I had hoped and I wasn’t doing all I had dreamed I’d do. Instead of leaving, I changed what I was doing! I can’t imagine doing anything but working for the good of kids! #122edchat
A2: Used a Shark Tank project that I had Ss last year do. Not as many Ss met my hopes, so it felt like a punch to the face, because I feel like I should have better communicated expectations. I have worked to be SUPER specific with expectations! #122edchat
A2 Cont: All we could do was laugh and quickly solve the problem by wiping IPs and starting over. Luckily, I have a supportive environment that treated the situation with grace & patience, instead of yelling at me or making me feel less than. #122edchat
A2: This year I planned to be out of my office more (when not co-teaching, planning, etc.) and at least eat lunch with colleagues. It has not gone well thus far... Still a work in progress.
#122edchat
A2: Whenever there is a change in admin, there's at least some change in school vision. I've experienced plans being cancelled or drastically changed. It hurts for a minute, but ultimately I keep my eye on my professional goals & continue to promote student leadership #122edchat
A2: :) You cannot let them know that they got the best of you, in that moment, because then they have the power and it's easy to push you around. I've learned to try to hide my emotions, be thankful for their time, then process somewhere else. Still a work in progress. #122edchat
A1 I literally can't think of one time, haha. I'm just gonna say, I set goals and work towards them. Sometimes it comes fast, and sometimes it doesn't. I try to be a thoughtful, nice person, I push myself when needed, and forgive myself when needed too. Doesthat count? #122edchat
A1: I choose to daily not give up on two particular students that actively look for a 25ft pole to push adults away. I refuse to give in to the accustomed way they interact with adults and know that no matter how hard the try, my efforts are necessary! #122edchat
A1 - I'm in the middle of mine right now. Trying to be a successful advocate for Ts and Ss with the EMPOWER Conference. So much to do, lots of pressure but I stay focused on the outcome and great things it will do. #122edchat
A1. I once ran a marathon. About 20 miles in I wanted to quit...I had never wanted to quit something so bad! But I didn't. I thought of my training..I thought of my family and friends who believed in me more than I believed in myself. I finished! #122edchat
A1 This year I committed to not assigning separate “homework” to students. I have gotten push back from Ts, but I know it is the right decision to focus on in class learning and not add more to their plate. #122edchat
Q2: “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.”
Share a time this year that a plan you created ended with a “punch to the face”. How did you move forward? #122edchat
A2: I like to have Ss use a digital portfolio to reflect. But I have been inconsistent with it so when we use it to reflect, Ss forget where it’s located or how to use it............nightmare. #122edchat
A1
I refuse to give up on the good in people.
I'm always looking for the expression on someone's face that says, "I'm worth it, please dont give up on me."
#122edchat
A1: My biggest fight is not in classroom. I’ve battled ton of orto injuries, searched country for docs who could handle me and my case, had 12 shoulder and hip surgery, refused to give up sports, and work hard in pt. Fun fact- I have 4 Achilles’ tendons in my body. #122edchat
A2. I planned a great lesson but didn’t plan for behaviors. And so this was a time where I got to reflect and search for new behavior strategies that could work best for my students’ needs. #122edchat
A1 My 1st year was at an Islamic/Arabic school. I loved it but it was challenging- My friend & I created the curriculum and not to mention the difference of culture but I wouldn’t have traded that experience! #122edchat
But clearly you learned something about the project and your delivery within the project! Learning takes a little bit of the sting off of the punch! #122edchat
California just updated their H/SS framework along #inquiry and the Fair Act to make sure all voices and perspectives from history are now heard. #122edchat
A2: I take risks all the time for my students! A punch in the face is what teaching is all about. Being willing to venture out of the safe zone and take the punches is fine as long as you get back up. Getting back up is what is important! #122edchat
I asked our families to consider interviewing a family member as a part of the Great Thanksgiving Listen using the @StoryCorps platform. I got little response and some criticism for “piling” on work over the holiday... I am working with the living and pushing on! #122edchat
A2 - I can’t say I’ve been punched in the face, but just as in many situations patience can be tough. Sometimes waiting for change that seems easy is frustrating. Just explaining the benefits to students can really help. #122edchat
Punch in the face? I had to go out of town 3 days. I left awesome hyperdocs behind. They were clear, engaging... my students flopped around like dead fish “we can’t do this” ... so I made videos, chatted, paid for airplane WiFi so I could conference with them #122edchat
A1: A time I refused to give up was when I ran my first marathon.
My driving force? I ran in honor of my father-in-law who died of lung cancer after 14 mos. of being diagnosed & my best friend who died 6 mos. later of cervical cancer & died 6 mos after her diagnosis. #122edchat
A2: I have had several of those moments this year as I took a risk and moved into a brand new position! The toughest moments have been those where my mindset does not match those of others. #122edchat
Wow what a phenomenal experience! No wonder you are so driven towards global connections! You completely understand the power of understanding culture and connecting in spite of differences! #122edchat
A2: I love the way this question is phrased, hahaha! I've not had a punch in the face yet. Sometime the air gets let out of my bubble of excitement, but no punch in the face yet. HA! #122edchat
A2: Was going to take an extra class last semester to be done with grad school in March, but eye surgery said NOPE! Looks like I'm going to class in May/June. #122edchat
A2: I devised a really good plan for something, it would have helped and engaged Ts, but it fell on deaf ears. It made me feel like what I said didn't matter or was not considered helpful input. It was not an unsolicited suggestion. Punch to the face and gut. #122edchat
#122edchat A1. My Twitter account....when I started I was unsure and doubt ridden, no body on my area of interest tweeted ... I don't know how to and was very nervous 😬😬 ..even to enter the chat was a challenge...but I kept at it & validation from all you people helped me thru
A1~ took a risk to really expand using @Twitter and am so grateful I did ... has opened up lots of opportunities to learn, share my story & connect with edustars like #122edchat folks #teachpos#Champforkids#starfishclub 💕💕💕 just so many more ...
Q3: “Sometimes the best way to deliver a punch is to step back, but step back too far and you ain’t fighting at all.”
How do you determine when to throw “a punch” and when to take a step back? #122edchat
A1: I choose to daily not give up on two particular students that actively look for a 25ft pole to push adults away. I refuse to give in to the accustomed way they interact with adults and know that no matter how hard the try, my efforts are necessary! #122edchat
A2 - #122edchat I had a student led self paced classroom. My punch was being told that I couldn't do it anymore. The district didn't support that type of innovation. It was hard to go backwards.
So true! A kid who I've had to disciple kind of frequently over the years told me he was sad that's he misses part of Spanish each week to go to speech bc it's his favorite special. So sweet. Again and again kids crave love with a firm hand when needed. #122edchat
A1: I never give up on fighting for my students, even if it puts me at odds with others - especially those higher up the chain from me. Among those I've advocated for, the result was positive for them - not so much for me; but I don't mind taking the heat for my kids! #122edchat
A3: I do my best to pause and reflect on what my goal is for the end result. I ask myself -Is this worth the "fight" ? What will the outcome be if I continue? What will happen if I give up now?
#122edchat
A2: Trying to implement Understanding by design - great idea, wrong time and method. My team gave me the feedback I needed to move past that failure. #122edchat
A2. Not only can life punch you in the face, it can knock you down to your knees. When that happens...breath...get back up...brush those knees off...and punch back. #122edchat
A2 It took a few discussions with a class or two to really get things would be different: no deadlines, quizzes, homework, questions lists, prompts or tests. They couldn’t trust it immediately #122edchat
A3: I've started to take more steps back this year. I try to land punches when I have a clear passion behind something and not just doing something "because no one else will." Has helped me take more off my plate. #122edchat
A1: I didn’t get the teaching position after my first interview. I really wanted to be at the school so I asked to meet with the principal to see how I could improve, applied the feedback, interviewed a second time a month later, and the rest is history. #122edchat
A3: You have to know your opponent. You have to be able to read non-verbal signs and know what is currently happening in life. Being observant is so essential. Sometimes we pay the price because we didn't take time to pay attention. #122edchat
A3: I try give myself a night to sleep on any potentially emotional exchanges. If I am still feeling passionate enough the next day to address it, I'll move forward. In other words, I try not to let Present Tonya embarrass Future Tonya! #122edchat
A3: Those decisions are best made with a gut check! I run it through the question: Is this what's best for kids? If it is, I punch; if not, I step back. #122edchat
A3: I try give myself a night to sleep on any potentially emotional exchanges. If I am still feeling passionate enough the next day to address it, I'll move forward. In other words, I try not to let Present Tonya embarrass Future Tonya! #122edchat
A2. Sharing your idea or plan before implementing it helps. It doesn’t mean you don’t have to go through with it but someone else may provide some great ideas or thoughts you didn’t plan for. My team can point out things I didn’t think about and save time in long run. #122edchat
One kid I teach, who struggles and is super quiet in the classroom, was following me around at recess grinning ear to ear because I asked him what he likes to do at home. He usually looks so anxious. I've rarely seen him so happy. 💚 #122edchat
A3: Great analogy! You have to step into the ring, but you also have to assess your opponent and not feel the pressure to go for the KO in the 1st round! #122edchat
A2. I had a plan that some people agreed with & then did not follow through on. They were unapologetic, & I had to regroup. It was still successful, but it took me by surprise. I learned a lesson and made some changes to next year's implementation. #122edchat
A3 I have always liked the saying lose the battle to win the war. I always try to remind myself that sometimes you have to let the small stuff go for the greater good. Not worth fighting small battles and losing sight of the goals #122edchat
A3: At this point, 14 years in at the same district, I know who can take a punch and who can't. I definitely have tried to listen more and talk less. I only deliver a punch if it is absolutely needed and if it benefits my students! #122edchat
A3: I truly believe in picking my battles. I weigh the pros/cons of if it's worth ruffling feathers depending on the outcome desired. If it's truly best for kids, I'll keep pushing it no matter what. #122EdChat
Wow, good for you! How brave of you to open yourself up for feedback after a missed attempt! What a great lesson for your students that second chances are for everyone! #122edchat
A3 #122edchat Big Picture. If it benefits the big picture, models integrity and/or tenacity and perseverance - then start throwing punches. If not, maybe sleep on it.
A3: "Throw punches" when there is no audience. Removing disruptive students from their peers to address behaviors has worked time and time again. Engage them in front of their friends = Knockout #122edchat - Sorry for being late
A3: I go by my peace. I let my peace lead me. When I can’t shake an injustice, I know I have to speak up or I won’t be able to sleep with dignity. #122EdChat
A2 I've got some personal stuff that punched me in the face. Hard. I self-talk, the only person I can control is myself, so I don't let others put me down for long. I might not punch back, but I've got mad skills being happy with my choices and how I hold myself. #122edchat
A3: I will punch anything that fails this test: will it ensure all students will learn? Is it respectful of those in the district? Will it promote working together to be successful? #122edchat
My 2nd year, I started the year off wrong with the kids. I have high functioning autism and the first parent night, I made most of the parents mad, too, bcz autism. 🤦♀️ I tried to step back and readjust throughout the year but the parents didn’t forgive or forget. #122edchat
A3: I'm paying attention to this as my class does more inquiry. They need more space to find/reach the answer, they don't need it handed to them. Also not fighting Ts who aren't ready to move forward w/ tech - same space needed. #122edchat
A3 - With experience you learn that having the best interests of kids usually works. When there are disagreements it’s about being able to compromise and understand each person’s point of view. #122edchat
A3: I really believe that it all starts with listening. Truly listening to others. And not listening with the intent to respond. Just. Listening. So many “punches” can be avoided if we start with that. #122edchat
Q3: “Sometimes the best way to deliver a punch is to step back, but step back too far and you ain’t fighting at all.”
How do you determine when to throw “a punch” and when to take a step back? #122edchat
A3: I read my students and go from there. I have been lucky to have enthusiastic students who are willing to do whatever is put in front of them. #122edchat
#122edchat A2. My plans for my personal life. They have backfired... My judgement of people and situations is normally bang on....2018 was an eye opener....my strength got challenged and I felt shaky ground...but resillience and accepting . Moving on ...so bring it on LIFE
A3: You can only take so many steps back and reflect. Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and make a change. You have to do what’s best for YOU and your family. Not anyone else. #122EdChat
Q4: “If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it - then I can achieve it.”
What is one dream that your mind conceived, your heart believed, and you achieved this school year? #122edchat
#122edchat A3: Waiting until the next day to determine if and when punches need to be utilized allows for a bit of distance and clarity. The punches need to be used wisely and not wildly.
A1: Last yr, I had a S who wanted to drop to a lower level because she didn’t think she could do the work and wasn’t comfortable getting a lower grade. I normally don’t get mixed into decisions like this, but I fought her and her parents. She stayed in the end! #122edchat
A3
Practice wait time
Pause and reflect
Don't overreact to quickly
Be patient
Never really give up, but step away from it for a while,
and revisit it later.
#122edchat
A3 - If you have students best interests in mind, then there is no question that you should always fight those battles, because otherwise someone else may never stand up and advocate for that student #bethatteacher#122edchat
A2: Amazing how so many of our struggles have to do with being punched.I have been, but I truly believe in the good in people. they were doing what was best. the few times they weren’t? They acted out of frustration and don’t believe in reciprocating public shaming. #122edchat
A4: I really wanted to reevaluate the way that I approached reading remediation with my 4th and 5th grade students. I implemented sketchnoting to help with visualizing, inferring & summarizing and the results have been mind blowing! I have even had Ts ask me about it #122edchat
A3. I have been better at pressing pause but if my kids: 24 & 2 are affected there may be punches 🥊thrown- hard to step back when passion takes over! #122edchat
A1:scaling and spreading new researched-based practices has been challenging. Finding something that works, having the data to back it up, and trying to figure out how best to share keeps me in the ring! #122edchat
A4: Working through the implementation of #DBC50Summer & creating a culture of reading - both of these HUGE dreams are beginning to come true. It's still a day at a time, but the growth has been incredible! #122edchat
So essential, Frank! So happy that you could join the discussion tonight. I liken it to driving in a car. We all have blind spots. Sometimes, it's up to others to point out what we can't see ourselves. Grateful for that. #122edchat
A2: I supported two students who wanted to do a very peaceful walkout after the Florida shooting last year and was told my support was dangerous and that those two students wanting to support gun violence were now a threat to the school. Because I could, I walked away. #122edchat
A4: I continue to advocate for student voice & their ability to run essential functions of the school. My 1st-5th student leadership group is working on writing letters to meet with adults in the building to make some big changes. They set goals and follow through! #122edchat
A4: It seems like every year in Drama, we feel like we have seen everything and reached a peak. Then for the next show we have to start the process again. This year, we had less time, new people on board and stress along the way, but still found success. Vision is key. #122edchat
A4: One dream I've had this school year is to create a non-profit to help other schools (https://t.co/egRuyPQRcM). I'm now close to finalizing meetings to do just that!
#122edchat
#122edchat A4 This is an amazing 7 minute video that a senior at my school did for her project. It is the Story of Always Believe When you have time it is a great watch! https://t.co/QyCVXGNNqe
A4: I believed if I gave our Ts enough support, showed them the benefits, & praised their achievements we could get 60% of Ts to give online exams in May. We were at 63% in Dec. Setting my sights on 80% now. #122edchat
Your story reminds me alot of @EALewis2016 !!! So thankful that both of you are here! Making a huge difference in the lives of so many kids! #122edchat
A4: Our positive student referrals have given us the opportunity to meet and have great conversations with students and parents that we might not interact with as much as others. #122edchat
A3: Reflection combined with action is a 1-2 punch. What can I do to avoid the same situation? How can I implement this differently to avoid the same problem? Now, act on it and follow through. #122edchat
A4: It’s slow and steady right now, but Learning Walks are getting ready to start on my campus! I’m so excited about seeing the impact that they make! #122edchat
Q4: “If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it - then I can achieve it.”
What is one dream that your mind conceived, your heart believed, and you achieved this school year? #122edchat
A3: If the situation is affecting me then I step back and process and think first. If the sitaution is affecting students I speak up right away. #122edchat
A4: Starting to be more receptive to feedback and taking action as a result. This was achieved by not personalizing this “growth opportunity” #122edchat
My principal gave me very good advice a few years ago, "Don't get in your own way." I try to follow this advice (but punch myself in my face from time to time, lol). #122edchat
A4: Based on our teachers’ focus on growth and celebrating the progress of students at ALL performance levels, our school was recognized with Reward status by the TN Dept of Ed. #122edchat
A4: I wanted my Ss to truly revise, pay more attention to their writing, and set meaningful goals for improvement. It was a struggle, but I feel that it was successful in AP, but now onto College Prep and the SAT essay! #122edchat
A3 I'll say this...My #oneword2019 is Reach. Part of that mindset is to remind myself to go high, when I want go low. I won't likely throw a punch...but I will walk away and come back when I can use my words. 😏 #122edchat
A2: I have had some really awesome moments this year, and moments that have felt like a punch in the gut. Although challenging, I’ve opted to more focus on how I’ve grown from these moments. #122edchat
A3: It seems I keep answering the next question with my previous question.😃 It's easier to push back when you have support. Otherwise, the phrase, "pearls before swine" comes to mind. Sometimes you know you won't get anywhere with fixed mindsets. #122edchat
A4 - I like to think the message of spreading positivity is transformational. We don’t often realize how important happy, inspired students are for a school. #122edchat
A3: advocating for students should be forefront. If throwing my punch benefits the Ss, then I’m ready to rumble! Still have to take a moment to recognize when it’s a mountain and when it’s a molehill! #122edchat
Q5: “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”
What is one risk that you’re building the courage to take? What are you hoping to accomplish? #122edchat
Love this. I left after 6 years. The culture of the building was toxic and it was destroying me. Like you, I made the changes (at a new school) and have never been happier w/ supporting our Ts and Ss. #122edchat
Teacher recruitment matters and I have seen you share before how important it is for you and your school! Thank you for championing for only the best for your students! #122edchat
A3. Step back when your measuring up your task. Throw the jab.Know the “strengths and reach” of your opponent or challenge so to speak so you know how to fight. If you are fighting the champ, you better knockem out and don’t leave it to the judges. Go all out in life! #122edchat
a3: I am one who cowers until a breaking point and then it’s on... like Donkey kong. Too busy and distracted by being awesome to get angry much. It takes a lot. #122edchat
Our division encourages learning walks within buildings and across buildings as well. Great opportunity to get ideas and collaborate with colleagues #122edchat
A5: Couple ideas on the back burner that I'm watching. One is w/@MrPStrunk, the other is with my family. Time, fear of failure and looking stupid are a few hindrances. My struggle is that if I'm going to do something, I want it to be the best. This ends up freezing me. #122edchat
A5: I want to really step out of my comfort zone and begin presenting more at conferences again, it's been awhile and I would like to share the great things we're doing with students & colleagues. #122edchat
A5: Presenting at #ICE19 by myself is a major risk that I'm pushing myself to take! I'm hoping to continue building my confidence and leadership skills through opportunities like this. #122edchat
A4 - To launch this new program @STMath in my elementary schools, I dressed up like Jiji the penguin mascot all this week and next.
Typical teacher response - “You never knew you’d be doing this when you took this job!”
Me - “Uhhh, this was my idea” 😳
#122edchat
A3: advocating for students should be forefront. If throwing my punch benefits the Ss, then I’m ready to rumble! Still have to take a moment to recognize when it’s a mountain and when it’s a molehill! #122edchat
A3. Step back when your’e measuring up your task.Throw the jab.Know the “strengths and reach” of your opponent or challenge so to speak so you know how to fight. If you are fighting the champ, you better knockem out and don’t leave it to the judges. Go all out in life! #122edchat
Love it! Sometimes throwing a punch doesn't have to mean getting angry though! Sometimes it can be those uncomfortable but critical conversations! #122edchat
A5: I'm building the courage to write more AND actually put what I write "out there". I have no idea what I am wanting to accomplish exactly. Perhaps sharing and reflecting. #122edchat
Hey #122edchat! That's it! We're out of questions for this week. Find some great folks to follow from tonite's conversation. While you're at it, let's give our hosts, @khoggardGRT & @CristinaDajero a shout out for steering "The Mothership" this evening. Job well done! #122edchat
A5: I really want to get a group of our Ts involved in one of Harvard's @ProjectZeroHGSE courses/programs. Reading the books I think they could have a huge positive impact on our Ss. #122edchat
A4: Teaching using the grid method. I learned about it last year and brought it to life this year for the entire school year thanks to the @teachbetterteam#122EdChat
#122edchat A5 My goal as an educator is to use my book and spread the power of making #AlwaysBelieve as your 1st rule. My dream is to persuade some principal to make their school the 1st ever #AlwaysBelieve school. My career as a presenter is beginning this summer.
I earned my EdS in four semesters, while raising my family (6 kids), working as a teacher, a part time job ... last semester was 9 hours (included my practicum). The day before my graduation my bp was 187/102 #122edchat
A5 I've been teaching two new math with code classes, so I have been learning along with my Ss for sure. We have been encorporating math concepts and having fun. Hoping it leads to big things beyond this year #122edchat
Hey #122edchat! That's it! We're out of questions for this week. Find some great folks to follow from tonite's conversation. While you're at it, let's give our hosts, @khoggardGRT & @CristinaDajero a shout out for steering "The Mothership" this evening. Job well done! #122edchat
A5: I have been *SO* far out of my comfort zone this year that my comfort zone now looks like Saturn through a telescope. I've taken many risks and hoping they pay off in the long run. #122edchat
A5 I want to start presenting at conferences about reflection and growth mindset, but don’t even know how to start. The applications seem so overwhelming to me. And then there’s the flying 😬#122edchat
A5: I am hoping to create a book study between the Board of Ed and the Admin team by really using @Flipgrid as the primary tool. This takes extreme faith and positivity and I’m almost there. #122edchat
A5 Making a big stand for some of our babies that need so much more emotional support. I'm hoping to make people SEE them and the help they need so we will stop hammering them through cracks and pushing them along. #122edchat
1 on 1 help works well with reluctant Ts...tech, inquiry, whatever they need to explore and expand upon. I give a lot of private assistance to Ts and we both get the best results that way...it's a more trusting environment. #122edchat
A5 - #122edchat - I want to apply and do this admin license program and start my doctorate. I don’t know if I have the courage to take the next step. Not sure if I am ready.
Thanks so much for awesome questions @khoggardGRT & @CristinaDajero - when are y'all free?! I'm totally making the drive to see y'all! Let's do this! #122edchat
A5 presenting to different groups instead of only at conferences and I am trying again with my job proposal! Wish me luck! #122edchat and I’m choosing between a second masters or doctorate! Forgot about that one ;)
A4 It's something good. Really good. Can't share quite yet..but it's defiitely one thing I've dreamed about doing and it's starting to happen, thanks to some like-minded friends.. #mumstheword#122edchat
A2
Worked 3 months on redesigning our scheduling and ESE program. We were then opened to school choice for a week. Due to the amount of students who choices in, we had to revert back after all the planning, configuring, and training I had done.
#122EdChat
Q2: “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.”
Share a time this year that a plan you created ended with a “punch to the face”. How did you move forward? #122edchat
A4: I think just making it day by day and holding it together. May not be noteworthy, but I’m all in for and with the ss. And the everyday happenings is what matters. I can’t do great things, but I can do small things with great enthusiasm. #122edchat
A4: I’ve wanted to blog and be a writer for years. I’ve imagined scenarios and ideas, but I always found a way to not be a writer. Well, this year, with some gentle nudges and encouragement from @MarisaEThompson and @MakeThemMastrIt I’ve finally started a blog! #122edchat
Couldn't be prouder to support @khoggardGRT as she prepares for her book Champ For Kids to be released this spring by @EduGladiators publishing! Stay tuned because you're going to want to add this to your list of must reads! #122edchat
Excited to announce that Champ for Kids will be published this spring!
Looking forward to sharing the message with all of the champions in my #pln family!
Thanks for all of your support!
#champforkids#122edchat
A4. I was able to (and am continuing) to step outside my comfort zone by trying new interactive strategies for my students. *Next week we are incorporating a song in the lesson - something I’ve never done before! #122edchat
A4
I believe in the ss & their ability to do great things
If you give them an opportunity to show you what they can do, you will be amazed!
Our ss conducted a food drive collected personal hygiene items & socks gave gifts to seniors citizens and other acts of kindness
#122edchat
Agreed. We've made some good advances with personalized PD, but still have room to grow there. Ts appreciate working on what they NEED, not just the flavor of the month tool/strategy. #122edchat
The time will pass either way. It never hurts to learn more. If I were to do it over again, I would do Admin first. Good luck with whatever you decide!#122edchat
A5: I would like to pursue opportunities to write, speak, and present. I’ve learned so much from my unique experiences and the remarkable people with whom I work. Just need to take the plunge. You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start...to be great.#122edchat
A4 We’re only 1/2 way so not sure yet, but I've been able to bring the #SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) to my students. We try to relate all that we do to these #GlobalGoals to raise awareness, give voice to the voiceless, and take action to make the world better. #122edchat
A5: I have been a perfectionist but that does not benefit my students. I am trying more methods and if one does not work, I admit a small failure and try it another way or try again. It is helping me to feel more connected to my students and more confident my teaching. #122edchat
A4: I am happy that my students are comfortable with me and come to me when they need someone to listen. I dreamed of a beautiful school year, and that dream is here. #122edchat
A3
After taking emotion out of the equation and then evaluating what is best to move forward with.
Don’t just react, have a plan, know your why/purpose, and keep your mind open to different ideas and points of view, then attack the situation.
#122EdChat
Q3: “Sometimes the best way to deliver a punch is to step back, but step back too far and you ain’t fighting at all.”
How do you determine when to throw “a punch” and when to take a step back? #122edchat
Exactly. In my district we have 21 hours of PD a year to fill as we choose. I love this model but sadly there are some who would rather give sick days than learn anything new. #122edchat
A5 I'm looking into doctorate programs. I'd also like to teach at the collegiate level and work with pre-service teachers more intentionally. #122edchat
My experience was just so great. In no prior program/level was I challenged to think as critically as my doc program at @ClemsonUniv this practice generalizes into my worldly perspective now. Also, I love research and publishing, so this got me on track. #122edchat
A3. This is when you need to trust your experience and gutt. Not every "face punch" is worth your time or energy. Or it may just not be worth the repercussions or consequences. #122edchat
I think one day I would love to work with pre-service teachers! I love mentoring and helping teachers make sense of what can seem overwhelming! #122edchat
A5: To get out and do more professional speaking, training, and presenting. Willing to travel - the Bees need to get out of the Catskills for a while!😊 #122edchat
#122edchat a2 I grew a program until it was a happy, healthy 12 year old. Then my school nuked it. TBH I went back to uni but it is still really hard recovering from biggest punch in face. Suggestions welcome ( sorry to have a pity party here)
Take it from someone who waited 24 years - get it early! I waited because I wasn't sure what I wanted (slow learner). I also never thought Admin would be my choice. #DarkSide#122edchat
A5 Personally, I’m building the courage to write a book: Jotting down my ideas, talking to my co-authors, trying to find the time to create something useful for other educators. Time will tell. With kiddos, I just want to be better for them. #122edchat
Q5: “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”
What is one risk that you’re building the courage to take? What are you hoping to accomplish? #122edchat
Glad we are still doing this...I have seen so many amazing things happen this year. Positive begets positive! Gotta write a few kids up tomorrow :) #122edchat
A5: National Boards and obtaining my master's. I have been worried about budgeting my time with my family, but it is now my time to concentrate on this area of my life/career. #122edchat
I say this with no ulterior motive. I don’t work for @ClemsonUniv , but I am a proud product of their EDU doc program. I now teach at @ConverseCollege and LOvE it! #122edchat
In reply to
@Blended_Math, @ClemsonUniv, @ClemsonUniv, @ConverseCollege
One size PD does not fit all but there are some 'professionals' who will not do PD... not sure how that is okay for kids to not be a model of a learner for them. #122edchat
I need to instill a little Phoebe in both of you! Strap on your guitar and sing smelly cat like nobody is listening! Both of you are amazing and need to put yourselves out there without worrying so much! #122edchat
How can you be in Education and not want to grow? Unfortunately that group tends to think they are great teachers. Maybe they are really good, but that doesn't mean they're done learning. #122edchat
As you’re looking at programs, I suggest you look at the kind of job you want & read the type of doctorate required. For ex, sacs accreditation has rules on the type of terminal degree for certain faculty positions. Literacy needs literacy, math needs math... #122edchat
In reply to
@ADDEnglishTeach, @Blended_Math, @ClemsonUniv
I took a 3 year break in between, then powered through completing mine part time in 4 years. That’s 2 classes every semester while teaching. I did pause for one July term. #worthit#122edchat
In reply to
@AGScott18, @Blended_Math, @ClemsonUniv
Abby Marapao, 5th Grade from Va Beach who is super late and coming afterwards because it's her parents 26th anniversary and we were out to dinner but I wanna participate in the discussion anyway 😅😅😅#122edchat
Teachers fill out a “Noble Knight” which is a positive behavioral referral. I call down the student and share the positive referral with them, and I add my own comments. We call their parents together. Then I send a copy home and post one in the cafeteria. #122edchat
We're just getting to the point where each student will choose one of the #SDGs to focus on for possible #civicaction projects... now to find the time... #122edchat
Sometimes Life gets busy & you can't make it to your own chat!!
So, #MakeItReal Community...I'd love it if instead of tonight's chat you'd listen to one of the Instant Relevance Podcast Episodes and share your thoughts instead!! https://t.co/bwZvDzZCzW#tlap#learnlap#122edchat
Interesting. I’m sure you’ve talked about why, yes? Breaks are important too. So many are successful and doing good work along the way. You don’t have to have a comma in your name to push great content. Though I understand the excitement to start. #122EdChat
In reply to
@ADDEnglishTeach, @Blended_Math, @ClemsonUniv, @chronicle
#122edchat a3 If people are still talking the situation is salvalgable. Stepping so far back that yr not in the fight is good if it's a no discussion situ; but bad if it means you aren't having a say ( in a fair ring of problem solving)
Thank you my friend!! Hoping it is a representation of all of the hard work thatbeach of us does every day to champion for our kiddos! #champforkids#122edchat
In reply to
@hayes_melisa, @CristinaDajero, @EduGladiators
That’s amazing- way to go! I earned my EdS as a full time wife, teacher, mother (3 year old & 2 month old) in 2 years- very exhausting but so worth it! #122edchat
A5. With this being my 1st year teaching, the risk I am taking is trusting the years of experience I have in higher ed, running my own homeschool, coaching kids and the thoughts/concepts taught thru my various degrees to be the most multi-influential educator I can be. #122edchat
Q5: “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”
What is one risk that you’re building the courage to take? What are you hoping to accomplish? #122edchat
a1: (dropping in late, got caught up in other school stuff) I feel like all of last school yr (my 1st yr) fits this description! We had a revolving door of Ts and Ss in my grade level. Only @JordanPotrzeba & I survived. driving force = love of Ss! #122edchat
a4: honestly been in a rough/tough/low place lately. Stressed by all the "voices", mandates, and directives and just haven't found my groove. I'm sure I've achieved something but I'm just not feeling/seeing it right now. Will celebrate w/my PLN when I do! #122edchat
A2: I never realized how much I utilized technology until I didnt have it. I had to scramble around and figure what I could do that wasnt technology dependent and also not killing forests. It sounds very woe is me, but man was I struggling. #122edchat
