A chat that offers middle school teachers a chance to have a collaborative discussion about a different topic each week. Our topics change from week to week, ranging from Common Core State Standards to Character Education. During the chat, participants exchanges ideas and resources. The chat group ranges in size each week from 10 to 50+ participants. Discussion can be general talking about instructional style or process to specific. Recently members of the chat group help each other create lessons.
A1: I think a major thing can be not living in fear of darkness. If give into the darkness than we will be in a constant fate of fear. We should be prepared if necessary and assure our students that our school is a safe place. Tough thing to do right now. :( #mschat
A1. We plan to provide active shooter training to our staff each year. We practice intruder drills; in fact, we had a drill today. Probably the most important behavior would be to create and have a plan should anything happen. Failing to plan could result in chaos. #mschat
A1 Talking with kids about "If you see something, say something." Kids can be our best set of eyes considering how this generation poats a lot of their thoughts on social media #mschat
I agree having drills and a plan, but these often put teachers and students on edge too! How do you keep everyone calm and feeling safe? #mschat I never had to do an active shooter drill in school growing up ...
A1 I think Ss feel safe when their Ts know about them--not just their interests but also their family history, situations they might be going through, etc. Ts need to be aware if there are any family situations that might be problematic #mschat
I didn't either. It would have been so surreal. I just remind them that practice is important for anything to get it right. To know what to do and hope you never have to. #mschat
These drills are so stressful to me since we have to remain completely silent in a dark room on floor against wall... Yes TOTALLY needed but not a safe feeling #mschat
A1: Being present & aware of what is going on with Ss, in the hallways, etc. Also by having the 'hard' conversations with kids, & assuring them that you will do everything in your power to keep them safe. #mschat
A1: School is safer when Ss know that the Ts care. Behaviors = checking in with Ss, avoiding showdowns & NEVER turn your head on bullying behaviors #mschat
We have been working on this as we have noticed more anxiety in recent years #mschat Talk about the needs for drills and how hopefully it will never be needed like, the flight attendant telling you where the lifejackets are, just in CASE
In reply to
@JeremyDBond, @Stanton_Lit, @MrGolding_
It’s uncomfortable. Absolutely. But we mustn’t ignore the realities of what’s happening in American schools. I would argue that the plan and practice keeps my staff and students feeling more safe and secure than not having a plan. #mschat
Okay, but real talk - how are drills like these effective? You are forming one massive target - I've heard of other schools who have drastically different methods. So interesting - and sad - how we prepare for these events differently. #mschat
A1: It's important to be honest, then talk about the precautions in place at your school. Let the Ss share their thoughts with you and have the conversation. Preparation is key to ensuring a safe environment. #mschat
You can never drill for every scenario nor can you ever be really prepared but any preparation that can give you time or save one life is worth it. #mschat
In reply to
@MsHubbard124, @blocht574, @MrGolding_
A1 #mschat be present, listen & actively supervise-do lockdown drills including indoor intruder, outdoor intruder, medical & for lockdowns for drug dog searches. also practice hallway sweeps at these times & do evacuation drills where you walk to alt locations
We teach the ADD method. Avoid, deny, defend. Unfortunately there are lots of “what if’s” and there is no perfect solution. Local law enforcement taught these techniques to my staff as they are statistically proven to be most effective. #mschat
In reply to
@MsHubbard124, @blocht574, @Stanton_Lit
Don't know the answer here: We have had the police in to help form our plan and they are present when we do drills and advise any modifications.... #mschat Just following orders but agree I question if it is best
In reply to
@MsHubbard124, @Stanton_Lit, @MrGolding_
A2: Being intentional to reach out to those students and helping them find ways and places at school to feel plugged in and find that sense of belonging. Could be by a hallway conversation with them everyday or helping them get involved in a club/sport/etc. #mschat
A2 Take the time to learn their names & have a normal conversation with them, Ss are people too & they need to feel relevant in their environment #mschat
A2: Treat them like the people they are. Let them have a voice and make an effort to bring the change they want to see in the classroom. Be a listening ear when they want one and only bring your opinion when they ask for it. #mschat
A2: By letting Ss know that they always have at least one person in their corner at all times. Repeating this & more importantly, following through with this, is necessary. Seek out those Ss who seem to be isolating themselves from others & listen to them. #mschat
School need to find ways to keep everyone included, sadly I have seen some slip through cracks, I invite them to lunch and befriend them #mschat help them find their niche
A2: I implement a lot of peer and team work and encourage all to speak up and have a voice. Use @classcraftgame to reward points for teamwork and sharing ideas. Plus I check in on lone students frequently #inclusive#mschat
@BKd204Sci I think ALICE training is more what I was referring to. Can you talk more about this, Brian? It seems so different than what so many schools in MI are doing - right or wrong. #mschat
A2: Treat them like the people they are. Let them have a voice and make an effort to bring the change they want to see in the classroom. Be a listening ear when they want one and only bring your opinion when they ask for it. #mschat
We had 1 session on line
Alert
Lockdown
Inform
Counter Evacuate
Its more than just lock in place, and the steps can be used in the order you need in your situation Wish we did not need this #mschat
A-2Saw a great idea at a recent PD. Put every Ss name on the wall and the staff place a mark next to kids they have connections with. This will give you a quick look into those that we need to build connections with. #mschat
Awesome idea! We teach in teams so do keep a folder with team of students that lists which team teacher works best with/connects with each students but has limits! #mschat
A3-We have an awesome relationship with @UpperSouthPD at our school. Officers are routinely on the campus and in the building. They build positive relationships with our students on a regular basis! #mschat
A3: My kids school has a great program called WATCH DOGS - Dads of Great students which really helps create a safe school climate using volunteers #mschat
It breaks my heart that all of my Ss know that if they are not in a classroom at the time of a lockdown, to go to the nearest room. If they are in a bathroom they all know to stand on the stall & lock the door. So scary, but prepared for sure. #mschat
In reply to
@Nicholethomas41, @BKd204Sci, @MrGolding_
A school around here had a "draft" of Ss to mentor during the school year and they wrote notes to them on patterned paper. The Ts put the notes up in the form of their mascot for any Ss, Ts, Ps, and visitors to see. Really powerful. #mschat
Every ounce that is spent learning this is an ounce not spent learning science, math, our world. It's such a shame and I wish schools didn't have such a heavy responsibility. #mschat
It breaks my heart that all of my Ss know that if they are not in a classroom at the time of a lockdown, to go to the nearest room. If they are in a bathroom they all know to stand on the stall & lock the door. So scary, but prepared for sure. #mschat
In reply to
@Nicholethomas41, @BKd204Sci, @MrGolding_
So they are present from start of day to end of day, HELP with busing, walk the hallways saying HI to students and being Positive, help out in a few classes and at lunch all in POSITIVE ways #mschat
@blocht574 & the #mschat are talking about how to create safe communities. Important & timely convo. I’m just peeking in, but wanted to extend my gratitude & love.
You have to really pay attention. It is best to check in with every S. Easy when they are the brain or the behavior but I have conferences with every child. Learn some interesting things. #mschat
A4: Districts need screening & training program for guest teachers so that they know the procedures and focus on Positive Relationships with students #mschat
A4: Hosting events for and with Ps to help them understand the processes in place to keep their Ss safe. Not necessarily the procedures, but help them recognize that the school is preparing as best they can to keep their kids safe. #mschat
A4: Being proactive in communication. By starting the conversation, the community can get a sense that we have plans in place and will not just react. #mschat
It's tough. I was one of those kids. Sometimes you want to be left alone, but who knows if you know yourself enough to REALLY want that, if you know what I mean. #mschat
A4. Talk to the teachers. Ask them how we can make school more safe, how we can improve. Usually, they have already thought of it for us. It’s up to us to put their ideas in place. #mschat
Q4: I guess it is time to hold the government’s feet to the fire and start advocating and pressing for what we need. Why can’t we protect schools the same way we protect national museums and airports? This sends a message that we are not as important. #mschat
A4 Our @ipsd204 superintendent @ksullivan204 sent an email of reassurance, a reminder of what we are doing, & the importance of relationships w/children The calming influence was well needed & spot on #mschat
A4: By sending out communication & inviting feedback from Ps about safety measures. Our superintendent just did this today in his response to FL. #mschat
There was a threat at my daughters school and many of her classmates did not come or left early. It is a reality that I never had in school as a Ss. #mschat
It takes time and based on previous conversations I know who to check in on more frequently and who to refer to guidance. Wish I had more time. #mschat
A4: Our Admin were very proactive and present today. Announcement to start day, lots of talking with students and letter home at end of day. #mschat Communication and Presences is the KEY!
YES. In all of the conversations I had with Ts today, every single person admitted that they think about what they'd do any time they enter a room, experience a drill, etc. These are thoughts that have become second-nature as educators. #mschat
A4. Talk to the teachers. Ask them how we can make school more safe, how we can improve. Usually, they have already thought of it for us. It’s up to us to put their ideas in place. #mschat
3) safety is a feeling of security. It’s not always just about making sure a child does not get physically injured. Our job is to create an environment that encourages and celebrates risks without the fear of irreparable damage. #mschat
A5. Someone already mentioned it here, but I liked the “see something, say something” comment. Take everything students tell you seriously. If we don’t, they might stop talking. #mschat
A5: By encouraging them to report anything that seems even remotely 'off' or suspicious. As much as Ts & admin try to be everywhere, with social media, our Ss know/see SO much now. #mschat
Q5: Awareness is key. Kindness Week, Say Something Week, Bully prevention, safety talks and drills. Being sure to continue the discussions throughout the year. #mschat
It's a true team effort - Principal, Asst. Principal, Counselors, Nurse, Psychologist, Social Worker, and, of course, and our TEACHERS. It's OUR job to see each adolescent. #mschat
A5 Family Philosophy: We are all together, in normal days or in crisis we need to rally & support each other as Ts & Ss Make it a normal part of the routine so if tragedy happens we will be going thru it together #mschat
A5: Notice each other. If someone is isolated, be brave enough to reach out. Connect to people. No kid should go through school invisible among his peers. #mschat
A5: Work to remove the stigma attached to "snitching" and make Ss recognize that any danger needs to be identified and reported. Take measures to praise those who are not always in the spotlight for their positive contributions to the school culture. #mschat
A6: Promote the culture of the school. The family-like sense of togetherness. Laugh, smile, have fun, learn. No one should dread or be scared of going to school for any reason. #mschat
I imagine parents are all over the place. I don't know that I knew what I wanted till I saw our superintendent's post-Parkland message today about school safety. Honest, empathetic. #mschat
A6: By being present literally and figuratively - in the hallways, during transitions, sitting beside a S at lunch, or asking a S about their day. Be involved!! #mschat
YES! My Ss always make fun of me for being mushy - I gave Valentines to my 8th graders yesterday, so that level of mush. But it's so important. Sometimes we're all our Ss have. They need to know they're loved & cared for. #mschat
#mschat I hope you'll keep this conversation going over to #waledchat! It's starting in 4 minutes and we will be talking about care and education! It is going to be a great time!
A6) Communicate, communicate, communicate. Families should know the drills as well as students. (Do they know what type of communication to expect in an emergency?) #mschat
A6 Let Ss know that we see so much positive things going on! Like others said, encourage the positve behaviors, reward Ss who go out of their way to do good, let Ps and Ss know that there is GOOD in the world and their school #mschat
