Hello. My name is Susan, and I am a first year teacher. I absolutely value @TaraMartinEDU and @AllysonApsey. They are both inspiring and truly have hearts of gold. #champforkids
The ?s for tonight's chat came from a blog that I wrote! I'm excited to get my #champforkids family to share examples of how they VALUE Ss (& Ts)! Each ? has a "share an example" follow up! I would love to hear your ideas!https://t.co/85AsjVFy2e
Hey everyone! Adam from Cincinnati where I teach 7/8 grade social studies. I’ll be in and out as I’m watching my daughter crush fries and various vegetables like it’s her job right now! #champforkids
Hey #champforkids Steph Dill elementary SPED T in Colorado. I value so many a few who really stand out and support me are @CoachJonCraig@tracyscottkelly@_on11 and @MrPStrunk - thanks guys for being such strong supports and helping me to grow!
Hey #champforkids Steph Dill elementary SPED T in Colorado. I value so many a few who really stand out and support me are @CoachJonCraig@tracyscottkelly@_on11 and @MrPStrunk - thanks guys for being such strong supports and helping me to grow!
Agree. I think this is where reflective practices comes in. How do we help Ss to be better organized? I also believe that it should be a whole-school approach & part of school culture (in the guise of approaches to learning). #2PencilChat
A1 - When we validate a students feelings we say I support you and understand why you feel this way. We become a person they can trust and feel comfortable letting their guard down around. #champforkids
A1: Ss have to know that you recognize they are feeling a particular way & that you aren't dismissing their feelings. This year, I became much closer to a S who was a struggling reader & our relationship became stronger the more we learned about one another. #champforkids
A1: We all have feelings, and when we take time to acknowledge the feelings of others, it is a game changer. We see this OFTEN at home, it makes our kids feel like their voice matters and that they have value. This should be no different for someone else's kids. #champforkids
A1: It is important to show our Ss that we genuinely care. I did throughout the year by leaving random kind notes on their desks and, when the Ss were going through a rough time, we held an advisory session during lunch and talked to them. #champforkids
A1: By validating how a Ss is feeling, you are letting them know the what they are feeling, saying, doing is important to you. By letting Ss know that they are important helps to build relationships. #champforkids
When students trust you the relationship becomes stronger. When students know that they can count on you they’re more willing to take risks #champforkids
A1: It's always important to acknowledge our emotions and feelings. How we feel doesn't make us who we are but how we react does. These moments are HUGE opportunities to build relationships and to teach #SEL#champforkids
A1: When Ss feel validated they are willing to share so much! Just me listening to allllll the stories my Ss have to share was a big thing to them! They wanted to try harder in school and do their best! #champforkids
A1: Letting Ss know that you are listening and concerned about their needs really develops the relationship. I ask questions and will take time from our group to buld relationships - that way stronger learning is happening in the long run. #champforkids
A1: It's always important to acknowledge our emotions and feelings. How we feel doesn't make us who we are but how we react does. These moments are HUGE opportunities to build relationships and to teach #SEL#champforkids
A1 - We must always meet kids where they are, not where we are. Learning to be empathetic and kind aren’t standards, but they make a world of difference. I had a student who sat in the back of my room and never spoke. He visited me everyday after school. #champforkids
Linda! I am so glad that you let me be a part of you #PLN! And I can’t wait to learn more with the others who are tagged so we collectively can be a #champforkids.
In reply to
@LindaEdwardsi, @m_drez, @MrPStrunk, @MagicPantsJones, @dene_gainey, @MrsSharonLin
A1. Students have feelings. Sometimes they might be good at hiding them, but they’re existent. In order to build a good relationship with Ss you have to relate to them. #ChampforKids
#champforkids A1: Acknowledging Ss' emotions and feelings help YOU focus on teaching the whole person.....not just the learner of your subject. If all they learn is math but nothing about themselves, then I am merely a T of a subject and not a helper of people.
A1 I think everyone likes to feel that they are valued and listened to. I spend some time each year talking about the difference between listening and just hearing. Not everything someone says needs to be responded to. Sometimes an ear is all someone needs. #champforkids
A1: I think it is like pouring water on sand before making a castle. It allows for you to build a firm foundation. Students remember teachers who care about them beyond the classroom walls. #champforkids
A2 - High expectations set the tone. Ss will strive to meet the goals you set when they realize that you see their potential and are working to help them achieve that potential! #champforkids
A2: When you set high expectations for Ss you are telling them that you believe they can achieve it. I provide various opportunities for them to reach the expectations rather than lowering them just so they can reach them. Once they reach them, they are thrilled! #champforkids
A1~ #champforkids ... builds trust , empowers/fosters learning that delves deep and avoids surface learning that has little sustainability...builds peer relationships that supports & celebrates diversity
A1: Validating...it’s like saying I’m here for you. Then you can continue building those relationships that are so important. I had a friend who had “off” days, I would pull him a side, he would clear his head, share what was happening and then move on... #champforkids
Its absolutely about the long term rather than just short term relationships. Ss want to know they can count on their T today and tomorrow not just right now. #champforkids
A1: When a student feels like they’re important to you, your relationship will grow stronger. If you’ve ever heard, “My teachers never listened to me before” you know you’re doing something right #champforkids
A2: We need to set high expectations for our Ss because our Ss will live up to them. When a Ss wrote I cant do this on a math quiz, I added "...yet". I had a professor who told me she would never give up on me, and because of that, I worked as hard as I could. #champforkids
A1: I think it is like pouring water on sand before making a castle. It allows for you to build a firm foundation. Students remember teachers who care about them beyond the classroom walls. #champforkids
A2: High expectations are a target or banner hanging over your class or organization. In our Drama program, we constantly remind them that our standard, in every way, every day, is EXCELLENCE. They know the mark they need to hit. Easy to recenter them if they stray. #champforkids
A2 - I call that teaching to the top. It means challenging every student to be their best, not what another student’s best is. Nothing is more powerful than when a studtbt knows you believe in them. #champforkids
A1: Most Ss feel that they are ignored, both in school & at home. Validating their feelings/concerns help them see that you, as their T, hear them & what they say/feel is valued--that their voice is important. #champforkids
Eric, Sped/Math teacher, joining in late. Work at an international school in Brazil. Can’t sleep right now because my body hasn’t adjust to the time difference here in Ireland. #champforkids
A1) If you validate their feelings you are building your relationship because they know that they can go to you for help and that you are someone they can put trust in. #champforkids
A1: I think it's also important to remember that their reality isn't our reality. Their emotional reaction is directly related to their current reality. Its important for us to validate that if we truly want to build real relationships (this applies to colleagues) #champforkids
Eric, Sped/Math teacher, joining in late. Work at an international school in Brazil. Can’t sleep right now because my body hasn’t adjust to the time difference here in Ireland. #champforkids
We have to take them for who they are at the moment - the good, the bad and the ugly. Through building those relationships more good will come out and the student will grow in a postivie way 10 fold. #champforkids
A2- Ss have to believe that you believe in them- Setting high expectations and giving supports is crucial for growth! Espcially for those who might struggle with traditional types of assignments/assessments (standardized!) #champforkids
A1 Jumping in late. Acknowledging Ss emotions values who the student is and makes the connection that you care and want to assist/guide. Building up students allows for you to dive deeper too. #champforkids
A2: When you never accept anything less than a student’s absolute best - because you know they’re capable AND you tell them so - they’ll perform for you #champforkids
A1: think of time that someone retweeted a great lesson of yours, or wanted you to share a lesson with them. These things make you feel appreciated and a great educator. Ss want to feel the same way! Talk with them, give them feedback, help lead them. #champforkids
#champforkids High expectations remind everyone that we are here to become our BEST selves. If we can meet the expectations without growing or improving, it's time to find a different opportunity.
I tell my sweet little people that I only expect them to do the best that they can. We also talk about how someone else's best may not look like your best and that's what makes us unique and special! #champforkids
A2~ high expectations leads to well rounded learners who can navigate life that is not only good for themselves but the impact on others is apparent and the betterment for our 🌎#champforkids
A2: The greatest indicator of a students potential future is the level of expectations we have for them and they have for themselves. If we want them to see greatness in themselves we must first show we see greatness in them. #champforkids
A2 - I call that teaching to the top. It means challenging every student to be their best, not what another student’s best is. Nothing is more powerful than when a studtbt knows you believe in them. #champforkids
A1: It impacts everything. I actively listen to my Ss because I care deeply about them. I remember feeling like the invisible student. I got good grades, but a handful of Ts made me feel like they cared about me as a person. #champforkids
Agree! It's exactly what my Twitter PLN give me all the time. Validation helps me see that I have something of value to contribute. What more if we treat Ss the same way? #champforkids
A2 High expectations set the tone for the work you do. It says I believe in you and that you can do it. The catch is it HAS to be paired with providing the tools and strategies to help get them there. #champforkids
A2 Having high expectations for your students communicate your belief in them as learners and your confidence in their abilities. Be a cheerleader 👍 they will try to live up to those expectations #champforkids
A3: Most Ss just want to know that someone cares about what they have to say and that once they share their thoughts, you will follow through with what was agreed upon. We need to be truly present when our Ss are being vulnerable enough to share with us & reflect. #champforkids
I have not been as active on chats lately due to getting ready for my 1st year, but this chat reminded me that I need to start again because it has the power to uplift. Love my #PLN. #champforkids
A2) When you set high expectations for all students they will reach for them and make gains both academic and personally. It all comes back to having faith and believing in them. Ss know when you truly care about them and believe in them when that mountain comes up #champforkids
A2 High expectations set the tone that they are apart of the learning community and are challenged to meet their fullest potential. You see what they can do every day. #champforkids
A3- Those relationships soar. Ss feel more empowered and see thier own greatness! Believe in them and they will begin to believe in themselgves. #champforkids
A2: if you don’t set high examples, Ss won’t take risks. When they see their T “failing” forward and still pushing forward, that’s their example to try new things and to know it’s okay to take risks. #champforkids
A3: Stoping and truly listening to Ss is the only time I've really gotten to know them. The power of listening to understand vs to respond is profound!
#champforkids
A3: Goes back to Q1. When we listen, we make Ss feel like people. Our daughter was struggling + I asked her, "Dude, what's your deal?!" She cried + told me that she wasn't getting enough sleep. We modified our sched. to ensure that she was getting needed rest. #champforkids
A3 - I have shared bf that listening to understand and not try to find solutions is difficult for me. I am working to ensure that I am not putting up hurdles to relationships by not truly listening. #champforkids
LOVE the Mulan image!!! Faith and believing in yourself is powerful! Set those expectations and teach kids to believe in themselves! The sky is the limit! #champforkids
A2 - I truly believe, in my core, that every student, every teacher, every person wants to be great. Our job is to simply support them in achieving that greatness. #champforkids
A2: ⬆️expectations are a must. It’s how we show our kids they CAN do anything. It’s all about presenting various opportunities for them to reach their goals!#champforkids
A1: Most of my Ts knew that I was taking care of my mom, who was bedridden. I didn’t know if my mom would be alive one day from the next. I can count on my hand how many ask how I was coping. I won’t let that happened to my Ss. #champforkids
A3 - I watch body language as kids enter my room. It’s very telling on how their day is going. We focus on a positive word everyday and something to “pay it forward.” Nothing is perfect, but it sure makes most kids smile. R’s have to be developed and nurtured. #champforkids
A3: When you stop and listen to a Ss, it shows the Ss that you truly care and are willing to take time out of your day to hear them out. Every single person wants to be listened to. When a Ss is having a rough day, I make sure to talk to them. #champforkids
A3 When you ask what Ss need/want, it is a double win. They feel valued, and you get info to help you reach them better & faster. Don’t guess, ask them. #champforkids
#champforkids "Teachers and students are more than the givers and takers of tests." A quote from my department chair. When we listen to our Ss, we acknowledge this truth....and give our life's work even deeper meaning.
A2: High expectations are a must. Knowing that a student may not be ther "yet" is okay. Through building the realationships, having resepct and knowing that all can succeed - high expectations will be met! #champforkids
A3) I have had Ss change completely or work harder for me and become stronger leaders in my room than they ever had in any class before just by listening to them #champforkids
A3: I have seen kids with parents out of the picture open up to me. I have seen the hardest students open up and actively participate in chats. I have seen students with their heads down in the halls open up and smile in my class because I listen to them. #champforkids
A3: I’ve had incidents where Ss have fallen asleep in class and I understand their situation. We talked and they came back the net day better than ever. Sometimes they have things out of our control. #champforkids
A3: The biggest change I see is when my kids come talk to me about anything & everything. When I’m not “just their teacher” anymore, because they know I’m genuinely interested ❤️ #champforkids
A3~ when we are present, clarity is at the forefront which leads to the building of mutually beneficial relationships ... we owe it to ourselves and our Ss to stop, pause , listen and respond accordingly to whatever the “ it” is and move together through it #champforkids
A3 I have really close relationships with all my students. I got a new student last year part way through the year, he wasn't very happy, in time we developed a relationship and he became much happier and more motivated #champforkids
A3 - Listen with humility. Not thinking about what you'll say next. Listen because it is their turn to speak, it's their turn to share and it's an opportunity to truly hear what is on their mind. When we listen without an agenda it's amazing what we hear. #champforkids
A3: Ss become more honest w/ you. I remember a S came to me & said that she was being bullied. I wouldn't have known or wondering what would have happened if she didn't tell me. #champforkids
A3: I saw a little realize her full potentional and change her mindset from I can't this is hard to using strategies learned, stopping to take a deep breath and keeping at the work. I set high expectations for her and she met them! She knows her own value. #champforkids
A3: I’ve had incidents where Ss have fallen asleep in class and I understand their situation. We talked and they came back the net day better than ever. Sometimes they have things out of our control. #champforkids
A4: This year, I had Ss fill out a "what I wish my teacher knew" documents where they responded to questions that related to academics, social, emotional inside and outside of school. I used this information to select texts and tasks that were more relevant. #champforkids
A2: High standards with the support to get there ensures that Ss know you believe they are capable. I had one student that everyone felt would fail if we put him in an inclusion math class. Well, he didn’t. Next year, he will be graduating. #champforkids
A3- I love having lunch with small groups or individuals ! Ss feel much freer to open up honestly! When you let that communication #bereal the game is changed! Ss KNOW you are there! #champforkids
A3: It’s like they’re another child! Once they know we are actually listening they’ll do anything and everything w/o questions. Goes to show.. relationships are everything! #champforkids
A4 - We use a reflection document most days to get feedback on lessons, ideas and ways to improve class. Also, if you csn truly build a community, kids should speak honestly about what they need and like. #champforkids
A2: High standards with the support to get there ensures that Ss know you believe they are capable. I had one student that everyone felt would fail if we put him in an inclusion math class. Well, he didn’t. Next year, he will be graduating. #champforkids
A4: I like to provide FTF feedback/ideas as well as virtual feedback/ideas. Providing both avenues gives all Ss a comfortable way to interact and extend learning!
#champforkids
A4: I love answering the question, "Can we try...?" with a "Why not?!" In education we have conditioned students to be content with 1 or 2 options. When we say "Yes" we unlock a whole new level of engagement. #champforkids
A4 - Incorporating Ss voice and choice in processes and products through the use of PBL and design thinking has really helped Ss see that their voice is being heard and that they have a say in their learning. #champforkids
A4: I incorporate Ss feedback and ideas by providing them with Google forms that they fill out with comments and suggestions. I want class to be a positive environment for everyone involved. I also plan on using @flipgrid and @seesaw this year. #champforkids
A3: I’ve seen Ss go from being completely introverted to sharing ideas at Morning Meeting, sharing more during JGB inquiry questions and feeling more confident in themselves! All from listening to stories and responding to the notes they give me! #champforkids
A4: we have discussions during and after projects. I show them that I type their suggestions into Google Keep and I use their suggestions the next time around. Show them that you value their opinions by actually using their suggestions. #champforkids
A3 Stopping and listening fillls in the blanks, gives you the whys and help you get to the root. I’m a coordinator for a mentoring group and I’ve learned the importance of the backstory. #champforkids
A3: some kids just need to know that a T cares enough to listen. Thats all they want. I did that this year with a student and his behavior changed, ended up being citizen of the month! #champforkids
A4: Students wanted gave me a suggestion in changing how we did warm ups. When I applied their idea, one student said, “Woah, Mr. Strunk actually listened to us about this.” #champforkids
A4 - I've been out of the classroom for a couple years but remember that no one cares about spiders or rocks or the date in history. Allow students to drive the interaction with the content and teach the skills. Give Ss a voice, seek their feedback and engage them #champforkids
A4: Many times, throughout the day, my Ss have choices. Those choices come with boundaries and expectations. Whenever were have a reward party, I choose two ways, that I can live with, to celebrate, then the class votes! #champforkids
A4: we have discussions during and after projects. I show them that I type their suggestions into Google Keep and I use their suggestions the next time around. Show them that you value their opinions by actually using their suggestions. #champforkids
A4: I love answering the question, "Can we try...?" with a "Why not?!" In education we have conditioned students to be content with 1 or 2 options. When we say "Yes" we unlock a whole new level of engagement. #champforkids
#champforkids "Mathacognition" is a google-doc based convo I have w/each S about their emotional relationship w/math, strengths & challenges, strategies, and growth. It is also their chance to tell me what they need from me. If I don't demonstrate a response, it's inauthentic.
A4 I gave students a survey in June about the things they loved that we did, things they wanted do more of and things they wished we would do 😀 Happily they ❤️ most things we did and wanted to do more of them in the fall 😀 #champforkids
A4) I try to read my Ss facial expressions in class and change things up but I also ask for feedback after lessons and try to make them better. #champforkids
A4: We do a lot in small groups, but I also give my kids lots of opportunity to explore interests. They receive feedback from me & from each other. They become leaders in their own areas of expertise using feedback. Check out #LearnLAP for ideas! #champforkids
A3~ part 2😊.when Ss feel safe to share, they will share their thoughts about being hungry over a weekend, or fearful of our 🌎 that is changing their family dynamics ~we have to provide a safe haven to help them w/these by beingloving,forthright & action oriented #champforkids
#champforkids "Mathacognition" is a google-doc based convo I have w/each S about their emotional relationship w/math, strengths & challenges, strategies, and growth. It is also their chance to tell me what they need from me. If I don't demonstrate a response, it's inauthentic.
Giving Ss a voice is huge, it helps them to know that it is their classroom too! I will ask Ss how they like certains things and strive to do that more often! #champforkids
A4: we did a walk about museum for our Ancient Egypt PBL. After, Ss shared what went well and what didn’t. @ILThunderbirdAP was there when they shared what they think we should do for our next project & we did it! They were excited that I listened to their feedback! #champforkids
She passed away. Been 11 yrs now. The doctor told us that he had never seen someone bedridden live that long before with so few complications and with such a positive attitude. I try to live my life in a way that I know would have made her proud. #champforkids
A4: Incorporate Ss feedback through journals (two-way convo if they want) which I get raw and honest feedback and @Flipgrid has opened up our world to Ss voice! #champforkids
A5: When you truly understand where your Ss are coming from and find answers as to why they may act or respond a particular way, it can be life changing. It doesn't excuse behaviors but it may help to explain it. #champforkids
A4 - Worth reflecting, we are the only industry that doesn't consistently seek feedback on our performance from our primary customer aka our students. #champforkids
A5: When you truly understand where your Ss are coming from and find answers as to why they may act or respond a particular way, it can be life changing. It doesn't excuse behaviors but it may help to explain it. #champforkids
A5: Again. Listening. Adds value to anything and builds trust. I love getting to pull up a chair and hear our Ss pour out their hearts about what is troubling them. Odds are good, I have been there, too. I can advise and help them not make the same mistakes. #champforkids
A5: Relating to or empathize with Ss shows them Ts are human. We were once where they are figuring things out just as they are. We can all learn from our trials and failures!
#champforkids
She passed away. Been 11 yrs now. The doctor told us that he had never seen someone bedridden live that long before with so few complications and with such a positive attitude. I try to live my life in a way that I know would have made her proud. #champforkids
A5 - One of the most important E words. Huge builder of trust, respect and honest communication. Showing kids you understand their life is necessary to not only learning, but also a kind classroom. #champforkids
A5 This year I went to a more flexible deadline approach to “HW”. I assigned a terms at the beginnning of the unit due at the end. I told them I get that their lives are busy, and wanted to honor that. Most Ss got all the work done within the time frame #champforkids
A5) It is importsnt to have empathy and care about our students. We want to empathize, but also empower them to rise above and learn from the challenges in front of them. Empathize, don't pity them. #champforkids
A5~ continuous empathy leads to building a relationship of trust & security which fosters taking risks, failing & trying again ~ growth mindset all wrapped up in a bow that reads empathy #champforkids
A5: again, establishing strong relationships unlocks a whole nee world for the Ss and the T. Trust and understanding are paramount when strengthening relationships. Ultimately it is a simple as this: I am a human being and so are they, how would I feel? #champforkids
A5 Frequently the kids just need someone to talk to and listen to them. If there is a situation I can actually help with I do. Otherwise I'm a good listener 😀 #champforkids
#champforkids A1: When Ss feel like we listen and understand what they go through, they let their guard down & start to trust. So many kids come to us broken by life before they even get to school. When they know their teacher has their back, that is when relationships cultivate.
A5: As the amazing @TechNinjaTodd says: "Tell Your Story." Share with your class and your colleagues. For so long, many people have put teachers up on a pedestal. News flash!! We're human, too!! #champforkids
A5: Wow - being able to put yourself in your students shoes is huge. Just recently being overwhelmed and unknowing I now have more empathy for new students, those with anxiety, etc. As a kid reading was hard for me - I can relate with my kids because of it. #champforkids
A5: How do you build relationships w/o empathy?! It’s all about getting to know the child, all of it, not just their fairytale version. That’s how we show them that we truly are behind them 💯% of the time. #champforkids
I can't believe our time is up! Thank you all for being here tonight! Have a safe and Happy 4th of July! See you next week to discuss the H in CHAMP - Hopeful!
#champforkids
A5 Being able to empathize with our students allows for a bridge to be built that you’re hearing them and listening. Making that connection helps for future discussions. Ex: a Ss saw a T treating him differently and expressed it. I agreed and he still brings it up. #champforkids
I’m going to be sending out a small chapter that I’ve written about teaching. I hope you give it a read and let me know if you like it. Probably later tonight or tomorrow. #Teachpos. #champforkids
A5: Anytime you can put yourself in someone else’s shoes, you become aware to why they may be behaving a certain way. If we all took a minute to think about that first instead of reacting (even when stressed), teachers would be happier & so would the kids! #champforkids
A4: I regularly ask my Ss for feedback. We’ll plan out projects together. Before scheduling a test, I’ll talk to my class to see what is going on with them. I do surveys and have the Ss complete and end of the year reflection for me. #champforkids
@khoggardGRT and I love having lunch bunches with our kiddos. We've learned so much about hem and relationships have become stronger through our conversations #champforkids
A5: Ss know that you care about them as ppl not just a kid in your class. Had one young lady tell me how she was going through a rough time, and she credited my listening to her for what got her through the situation. #champforkids
A5: Being a kid advocate makes #empathy easy; delight in their presence and step into their stories. BE in the moment with them as they unwrap the present.
Oh, and these other suggestions from empathy expert @micheleborba will help as well.
#champforkids
I am amazed at the roles teachers have taken on in recent years. So many students are getting the bulk of their support not to mention knowledge of life skills in the classroom. #champforkids
Facial expressions can be so telling. I often think that as teachers we can be more proactive rather than reactive if we took a few minutes to stop and listen when we see something. #champforkids
I feel like I have found that Ts who don't know how to connect with their Ss will "pity" them and thereby lower the expectations because they have a different background/ home life. #champforkids#sadbuttrue
Joe said the best. Empathetic Ts need support too. That is where having a good PLN comes in, so go out there and follow ppl that will keep you caring and advocating for Ss. #champforkids
A5: Being a kid advocate makes #empathy easy; delight in their presence and step into their stories. BE in the moment with them as they unwrap the present.
Oh, and these other suggestions from empathy expert @micheleborba will help as well.
#champforkids
And when we tell our stories, we must share the good times and bad, the challenges and celebrations, laughs and tears. . .all of these stories helped to make us the educators we have become. #champforkids
