This twitter chat stands for "Wins And Losses Ed Chat" and will be a chat where students reflect on the previous week to celebrate victories and reflect on losses to turn them into victories.
Roman from Ontario, Canada. HS Teacher/Student Success Leader/Agent of Transformation. Checking in for #waledchat wondering if my Canadian brother in the rain/snow will also be double chatting ;) @mrbgilson
Phil from Northern VA here. I teach 7th grade US History II and am the founder of #waledchat@PaulSolarz@Samuel_Wallace2 got thirty minutes for some reflection?
Ryan, author of #BeTheOne For Kids, excited to moderate this chat. Looking forward to learning from all of you tonight and really excited that Be The One For Kids is now on @amazonhttps://t.co/bA28pCYgQq#waledchat
Patrick, a tech coach, colleague, and friend to teachers in Clarke County VA. An advocate for students and technology to enhance their learning.
#waledchat
Hey All, Steph Dill elem SPED T in Colorado. Made it through #MasteryChat using Tweetdeck for the first time. Think I can make it through #waledchat also.
Ryan, author of #BeTheOne For Kids, excited to moderate this chat. Looking forward to learning from all of you tonight and really excited that Be The One For Kids is now on @amazonhttps://t.co/bA28pCYgQq#waledchat
Hey all - babysitter cancelled tonight, so with my hot date plans or the window, I'm here. Shane from AB, Canada. Teacher and education podcaster!#waledchat
Hey all - babysitter cancelled tonight, so with my hot date plans or the window, I'm here. Shane from AB, Canada. Teacher and education podcaster!#waledchat
A1: My first homework assignment that I give is a math bio. Kids answer various questions about their math background and their interests in general. Sounds strange that the relationship starts with an assignment, but it is a quick way to learn a lot about my kids. #waledchat
A1 Relationships are foundational for success in our school. Staff at our school know the value of investing time to get to know students. #waledchat@MrPStrunk@ToddRisser@misskoplin
A1: I try to find out their main interests and build conversation through that. I'll have them fill out an interest survey as well, and do a "get to know me" activity. #waledchat
A1: I spend time having conversations with my students. I let them know a bit about myself that way I am not just the robot in the classroom, but I am someone who wants to come alongside them and help them learn! #waledchat
A1: Ask them questions about them, then listen to the answers. Repeat the process, daily. We might be the only ones actually interfacing with their stories. #waledchat
A1: Introduce the idea of family immediately. Be persistent with that message until they start believing that I really do love and care about them. Spend time talking about THEM instead of just the content. Their hearts are more important than their brains. #waledchat
A1: Take time to get to know students from day 1. Put curriculum on hold at first and, instead, value students first. Then move on the meaningful learning.
#waledchat
Ryan, author of #BeTheOne For Kids, excited to moderate this chat. Looking forward to learning from all of you tonight and really excited that Be The One For Kids is now on @amazonhttps://t.co/bA28pCYgQq#waledchat
A1: First three weeks are spent team building and getting to know one another. We take those relationships to build routines together. Not an ounce of curriculum until at least week 4. Set the table for success throughout the year. #waledchat
A1 I am lucky enough to get to know most students in my middle school. I am "that guy" in the hall, acting goofy and high fiving the planet! #Waledchat
A1 I begin to build relationships at the beginning of the year by meeting with parents & students at the orientation for new students. They get to meet me in an informal setting and that helps to put them at ease. #waledchat
Hey All, Steph Dill elem SPED T in Colorado. Made it through #MasteryChat using Tweetdeck for the first time. Think I can make it through #waledchat also.
A1 Relationships begin before school starts. I send out welcome cards with inspirational messages to prepare for our journey together. I try to welcome them as I would any family member. It is important that we become a learning family. #waledchat
A1 I actually start before the year starts. I reach out and talk with all students that I see whenever, they come to my class to pass a message, I'm walking through the halls, or in the cafeteria. #WaledChat
A1 Relationships are foundational for success in our school. Staff at our school know the value of investing time to get to know students. #waledchat@MrPStrunk@ToddRisser@misskoplin
A1-taking time to talk with Ss, learning to get to know them as people not just as Ss, play games and do get to know you activities. #waledchat#biogiraffe
A1: Take time to get to know students from day 1. Put curriculum on hold at first and, instead, value students first. Build curriculum knowledge on this foundation of relationships.
#waledchat
I’m not sure. We’re K8 so I make sure they know what to look forward to years ahead of time. Lately I take teams of middle’s and code scratch in the elem classes. Depends on I f I’m 6th or 8th that yr. 8ths we set a goal and toast to it. #waledchat
Years ago I did home visits. I would sit down with the family and my student and talked about all the adventures that we were going to experience. #waledchat
A1: I have a student inventory they fill out and I meet with each either individually or via zoom (college Ss) I did the inventory when I was in K-12 as well #waledchat
A1: To start off next year, I want to have a passion wall where Ss can share the things they care about. I would also like to have them create something to represent something about themselves. #waledchat
A1: Introduce the idea of family immediately. Be persistent with that message until they start believing that I really do love and care about them. Spend time talking about THEM instead of just the content. Their hearts are more important than their brains. #waledchat
A1 First weeks are all about building relationships and a classroom community... but that continues all year. I also send a handwritten card to each of my students during the summer. #waledchat
A1: At my previous school, we did some home visits to our highest priority, at-risk Ss to get them in the trusting mode. Delivered a pizza and chatted for a couple of minutes just to let the families know we were there for them. #waledchat
A1: Hi! Tracy Principal from Oak Lawn, Il. Heading in late! I love to engage in as many conversations as I can. I also try to take a lot of pictures. I think it helps them to see themselves as part of the school. #waledchat
A1) I ask the kids to fill out a What I wish my teacher knew about me form. Then I read @peterhreynolds The Dot, and we work on making our Mark for the school year. Laminate and display on the classroom wall. #waledchat
A2: one kid that I was worried about because of significant behavior issues last year has made some great progress lately. This was a hard earned relationship and took months before I started to see a change in his attitude and performance in the classroom. #waledchat
A1. This year I made my learning preference surveys digital, which allowed me to better know/analyze students' interests and needs. But face to face convos, questions, and feedback are the best. Smiles and laughter are amazing relationship builders. #waledchat
A1. Getting to know my kids and giving them chance to get to know their brothers and sisters. We do get to know u scavenger hunts/games #Familybuilding#waledchat
A1 First 2 weeks is all about learning about them. Lots of inventories and games. I also like to share some of my favorite things. I also started doing the play-do activity I learned from @burgessdave#waledchat
A1: I learn their names quickly! I also like to have students introduce themselves by answering simple questions like their favorite ice cream flavor. #waledchat
A2: A student who I thought I wouldn't reach complimented me on something, and has begun to say hi in the hallway. It's really quiet, but I hear it! #waledchat
A2: There is something special about being able to reach a kid that others have labeled as really challenging. I have been able to reach two of those students this year and have seen them transform since August! They are awesome! #waledchat
A1. I bring a roll of toilet paper in and let the Ss take between 3-6 squares what they feel they will need! Then they have to say something about themselves in a sentence for each square! Also, to have them do a class team building project- to get to know each other! #waledchat
Hey... parent peeking in... I assume parent relationships might come up? Can't stay for the whole thing but may chime in. Thank you for prioritizing relationships! #waledchat
A1: Take time to get to know students from day 1. Put curriculum on hold at first and, instead, value students first. Build curriculum knowledge on this foundation of relationships.
#waledchat
A2 I was able to maintain the relationships even though I was out for 5-weeks with a massive injury. Good relationships that start strong can withstand anything! #waledchat
A2 I have and continue actively work on building a stronger relationship with one challenging student. It's improved a lot but some days are difficult #waledchat
A2: There are always wins when you hear what students have to say. They are essentially walking, talking novels. Not enough characters to share all the stories. #waledchat
A1: To start off next year, I want to have a passion wall where Ss can share the things they care about. I would also like to have them create something to represent something about themselves. #waledchat
Debb, Drama Teacher, Lexington, SC
A1: I meet the students at registration. My 7th and 8th grade Ss actually do a play for 6th in registration day. I pass out info and meet kids. Weeks 1&2 are spent getting to know each other. #waledchat
A2: I have seen humongous progress in several of my students' reading and writing. I love being able to encourage them through the process. I often see the best relationships build when they experience me celebrating their successes.
#waledchat
A2: A student who I thought I wouldn't reach complimented me on something, and has begun to say hi in the hallway. It's really quiet, but I hear it! #waledchat
A2: actually giving students time to pursue their passions in my computers class. Opened a lot of doors to some great conversations and mentoring opportunities! #waledchat
A2: I love that my classroom has become a safe space for my students to share their biggest fears, concerns, secrets, etc. That means more to me than anything. #waledchat
A2 1 of my big wins was when a grandparent told me how much her grandchild has loved this year and having me in their corner. Made me smile, because this student does realize it through my words and actions! #WaledChat
A2: When my students say they don't hate math anymore... or at least like it better. I'll take that as a win!! I also live for moments when the quiet student starts explaining math concepts to a small group or the whole class. Find your voice! #waledchat
A2: At our opening parent night, being a new teacher in the first 2 weeks of school, and having Ps tell me how much their Ss talked about my class at home. The connection with home was already built in the first couple of weeks. #humblebrag#waledchat
A2 I have built an amazing relationship with a class through virtual collaborations. I know these kids by name, we do many lessons/challenges together and even went on a surprise visit from Canada to Florida to spend 2 days with them. #waledchat Thx @bmilla84@CaldwellElemen
Sorry #waledchat family. Between a 10 week old puppy barking and a headache that is taking control of my being I will have to catch up with this chat later. Enjoy.
A2.2: Had a quiet student say to me, "Hello, Mr. A!" I was stunned. I almost fell over. One of my favorite kids that I had been fighting for to have her come out of her shell for the past 2.5 years. It's finally happening! She actually smiled at me, too. Made my day. #waledchat
A1) I hug each one of my Ss every morning before they enter the classroom, and say something to them that is on a personal level. This makes students feel valued as an integral part of our classroom fam, helps set the tone for the day, and reinforces our relationships. #waledchat
A2 Starting a @TED_ED Club has allowed me to get to know the 5 who joined. I really love our conversations. Hoping to recruit more next year! #waledchat
A2: I love that my classroom has become a safe space for my students to share their biggest fears, concerns, secrets, etc. That means more to me than anything. #waledchat
A2) I started the year in this class as a sub, my program wasn't ready yet. I now have 17 kids in my class and I would not trade them for anything. We have struggled but we did it together. #waledchat
A2: We started a Parent Involvement Team. Today was the first Parent Involvement Day and it went great. So many great conversations! Can’t wait to see it grow. #waledchat
A2. I have a student who is failing multiple classes. We talk every day about all his work, not just my class. I help him and we joke for a few mins and then he gets to work. As he left today he said "Love you!" then added "Not in a weird way. You know what I mean." #waledchat
A2:
My biggest win is my wonderful J. He’s autistic and doesn’t have much use for school. He lives my class so much so that admin broke “rules” so he could take my class both semesters. Funny thing. I never knew I was making an impact. #waledchat
A2: A student was having trouble writing his blog, so I spoke with him, we looked at it, worked together, shared ideas and he said "I'm going to give that blog one more try." He did a wonderful job! #waledchat
A2: hearing a student share her trauma of loosing her little sister to suicide with our class. Without building the relationship with her and having the open respectful culture in my classroom that would not have happened #waledchat
A2. That my kids know we are a family! We fail enthusiastically together and are our biggest cheerleaders-
We look out for each other and are in this journey together! #lovemykids❤️
#waledchat
@misskoplin and @ToddRisser are asking some great questions about reflection tonight! Great to see everyone spending time thinking about the relationships we are making! #waledchat
A2) I have been working on communication skills w/a student who has become very special to me. It makes my heart so unbelievably happy when he goes out of his way to practice these skills with me! 😊 #waledchat
I have classes where we just share about our day/weekend/whatever icebreaker question we come up for the day. Definitely worth the investment of time to build relationships. #waledchat
A4: I’ve missed many but lately had some setbacks because of frustration with a S. I don’t feel like I’ve been able to get through to them and they continue to give up before even trying. #waledchat
A4: Probably more than I'd like to admit, but it's tough when you have 100+ students in a year. None are missed opportunities on purpose, that is for sure. #waledchat
A4: Everyday. I get so wrapped up in my own world that I miss people. I double down the next day to make sure that no "loose ends" are not addressed. This works with students, teachers, parents, administrators. ALWAYS show people that you care. #waledchat
A4: Absolutely. I have had students who I took defiance personally instead of seeing it as a cry for help and did not develop a relationship with them. I have learned since to see beyond the behavior and instead see the child! #waledchat
A4: Unfortunately, I have. I was working with a student who I was helping to complete an assignment, and another student, (who I don't consistently converse with) was sharing a story/interest and I couldn't give them my full attention. #waledchat
A2. If a Ss is having a bad day, at the end of the day I try to connect with them and see what's going on. If they aren't iterested in a project, I'll see what interests they may have to incorporate that into the plans! #waledchat
A4 A new student really needed a connection, but it was testing week and we were all too busy. Something happened in his life and he moved away quickly. I missed out knowing him and helping. #waledchat
A4 Teaching MS you aren't always going to catch every opportunity. I do try to make sure I greet every student at the door. I want to make sure I have at least acknowledged them all each day. #waledchat
A4: In the past, I have let opportunities go by because I didn't know the right way to push. Better relationships have helped shift push to guide.
#waledchat
A4: During those long stretches of school days without break, frustration in both my Ss and me often lead to missed opportunities at continuing relationships. Try as we might, sometimes those days happen. Need to focus on reducing those moments as much as possible. #waledchat
A4 Teaching MS you aren't always going to catch every opportunity. I do try to make sure I greet every student at the door. I want to make sure I have at least acknowledged them all each day. #waledchat
A4: In the past, I have let opportunities go by because I didn't know the right way to push. Better relationships have helped shift push to guide with trust providing a vital foundation.
#waledchat
A4) Who hasn't? Just last week, I kept missing @alicekeeler for her autograph. Of course got a few selfies but missed the chance to talk. But as I teach my kids, never give up! All good things come to those who go after it! #waledchat
Yes, absolutely. Working with 140 kids is great, and building relationships with them is awesome, and I do not want someone to feel like they are not cared for! #waledchat
A4: I don't believe for a second that anyone hasn't. Too often the 5 alarm fires get all the attention while the grassfires burn undetected. I try but no way I get everyone/ #waledchat
#waledchat A1 IMO the first day of school is HUGE! You get one shot to #blowaway your Ss and tell them why you teach. I do three sets of 2 truths and a lie about myself. My Ss LOVE IT! Make your 1st day so powerful that the Ss are telling their parents about you.
A4- have had many miss opportunities but one from yesterday that is hard to let go... could have handled the situation MUCH better and I blew it! He still came in today with a hug for me- but I have to work on my frustration! #waledchat
Q4: There's always a few missed opportunities...mostly because we don't recognize or fail to see. I try to slow down at least once a class and have a few words with each and every kid. Then maybe I can make up for the misses #waledchat
A4: During those long stretches of school days without break, frustration in both my Ss and me often lead to missed opportunities at continuing relationships. Try as we might, sometimes those days happen. Need to focus on reducing those moments as much as possible. #waledchat
A4: I'm sure.... and it's unfortunate. But now I take the time away from other things (emails, lesson plans) and spend those moments with the kids. It's too important not to. Something I'm working on this year #waledchat
Phil, mind if I promo #personalizedPD? Next Tuesday, March 27th at 8-9 CST. I will be hosting a chat on Inclusion. Please join me,so that I am not all alone! #waledchat
A4. I think it’s different for elementary- I have less kids and have them all day! I do have a relationship but know I’ve missed days where I should reach out more on a certain day or maybe connect more on a particular day... #waledchat
A5: Spring break is next week so I plan on making a conscious effort tomorrow to find out the cool ways that kids plan on spending their break! #waledchat
A4:
Sad question. This year, as I’ve been paying attention, it has been my own mood or emotion at the time. I make a snap assumption or just snap. Too tired or preoccupied to take those few seconds. Then the chance is missed. #waledchat
#waledchat A4 Every day represents MULTIPLE opportunities to build relationships with the Ss. You sense it once the moment has passed. Try to not make the same mistake twice.
A4: anytime a student has failed something or turned in work that wasn't close to being correct, I feel like i missed a chance. But I correct it and keep giving them chance or find time to sit down with them and through it. #waledchat
A4: I have a wonderfully excited student this year who loves to show me what he writes. He always chooses to do so when I am in the middle of a guided reading group...he gets so disappointed! I need to set aside time afterward to look through his work to encourage him. #waledchat
A5: Tomorrow is our last day before spring break, so I want to send my kids out with as much love and support as I can possibly give. Not all of them will be spending that break in a happy place, so I need to make sure their time at school is well spent. #waledchat
A5 I am planning on having a @skypeclassroom Mystery Skype. Had one today that went really well and hoping to give the same experience to my other ELL class. Students connecting builds relationships. #waledchat
A5: I'm going to do my best to initiate saying "hi" more in the hallway. Typically when I'm walking through the halls I'll react to students who say it to me, but I want to start the interaction, even with students I don't typically see! #waledchat
A5: Hmmm good question. I would like to try to reach some of the students that I feel like there is still room to go in our relationships and check in about their breaks. Not too late in the year to make an impact, I want to keep that in mind! #waledchat
A4. Definitely, but not intentionally. Time is a big factor. Ss rotate through some of my classes so I will have worked with 350+ students this year. Some Ss dont let their wall down within 9 weeks. #waledchat
Wouldn't be Wins and Losses without some time reflecting on losses. Thanks for being vulnerable, good news is we still have a quarter left to make a difference! I believe in you, Debb! #waledchat
A4 Of course I have...we always try so hard to be there for everyone, but we can't physically be there. One that hit me the hardest is when I found out that a former student of mine took his life the day after the last time I spoke to him. It still hurts. #waledchat
A4: I have taught a lot of students who were withdrawn and overly apathetic. Because of this I didn’t get a chance to reach them because they might have been expelled or even quit school. #waledchat
A4. At the beginning of the year, I finally broke the ice with a Ss by helping him with his hwk in math. The next session, he came in wanting to work on math mult. facts with me, but we were doing an exp. and had to wait. It was the last class he was present, he moved #waledchat
A5: Spring break is next week so I plan on making a conscious effort tomorrow to find out the cool ways that kids plan on spending their break! #waledchat
A5: During some more independent work, I will take time to sit with each of them and share some congrats on their work this year and ask them if there's anything else I can do to help them, specifically #waledchat
A5. Testing season has begun and stress levels are high so I am going to be sure to smile and laugh more with the kids. I will use upcoming spring break to write each student a personal note. #waledchat
A4: During those long stretches of school days without break, frustration in both my Ss and me often lead to missed opportunities at continuing relationships. Try as we might, sometimes those days happen. Need to focus on reducing those moments as much as possible. #waledchat
A5: my kids are on spring break, but they all know they can get a hold of me for feedback or assistance on their projects. Digital media FTW! #waledchat
