#edchatma Archive
"Massachusetts has always offered its students an innovative, world-class education. The plan is to now use #EdChatMA to tap into all people who are in schools and/or passionate about educating students from around the Commonwealth, America, and the world and leverage their knowledge and experience in support of our students." --founders of #EdChatMA
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Rik, Facilitator of Learning in a public high school grateful to team up with and our Crew to INSPIRE!
Got my couch and my iPad. Looks like I'm ready for
, AP at in Malden, SCommittee in . Psyched to co-mod with tonight. talking grt starts
is off and running. Let's make introductions and start the mingling!
Grace, thrilled to have you in tonight!
Jeff, your Crew is grateful to share this time with you tonight!
Looking forward to a great Thanks for hosting Dave and Rik - Maureen 5th grade MA teacher
Sorry to miss tonight! I am attending a meeting of tonight! (Put our conference on your calendars now, MA: April 6 & 7!)
Two great Ladies are with us already tonight!
Hi Maureen. Great to see you
Hi Rik. It is nice to be back with the crew tonight
What? Maureen is here? Really?
Like this tweet if you're new to so we can welcome you to our Crew!
Our loss. Sounds like an interesting conference. Keep us posted.
Grace, we're ready to learn with you tonight!
. Hi, Maureen! Hope all is well with you post-TLI!
Our Crew is welcoming all on the Red Carpet tonight!
HI Sunshine! You always brighten my day!
Jeff B. here, middle school teacher in Danvers. High school XC/track coach. coordinator.
Every year feels at least a bit different. This one, imo, is on steroids. So much going on. Can't wait to share w/
Oops. I forgot to introduce myself. 8th grade special ed
Our Learning was on steroids today!
So glad you'll be presenting at Rik :)
Oooohh. What's the topic?
Jerod, Associate Principal at a middle school in Southern Delaware, glad to join educators from MA tonight
Can't wait to hear what you are doing, Dave
Q1 - Share any learning strategies that you’ve used this school year that are generating positive results.
"Engaged Collaboration in Math"
Thanks. I'm glad to be here
Bob MS Prin in Maine looking in for a bit
A1 We continue to use online learning menus to guide Ss efforts, differentiate, foster collaboration and coaching.
A1 - We're empowering our Learners to ask so many more questions this year. They are loving it!
Jerod, I hav missed you, Brother! Awesome to see you in tonight!
Sounds awesome. Tell me more.
Started the curriculum year with double, yet very connected focus. We're looking at Ss asking better / more questions & writing.
A1: Implementing some new critical thinking/visible thinking strategies this year. So far, so good!
Kathy, welcome! Sweet to see you in tonight!
A1 So important. Love quote "Questions are the new answers." -
A1, cont'd: Our curriculum is all skills based now. More student centered = more authentic!
Hey Bob. Great to have you Saw you blog home and the new Gorham logo. Love em.
I'm glad to be here bro! Getting back into my Twitter chats
a1. We have a new sensory corner that everyone is loving, and using really functionally for
Hi Kathy. Hope you're doing well :)
Jerod, we will benefit from you being back! https://t.co/miuPkB2hOw
I'm glad to be here bro! Getting back into my Twitter chats
Two awesome focus areas--they intersect too.
Might you be joining me on 10/28 in Waltham with Jon Saphier? https://t.co/PP9fUdYQwF
A1: Implementing some new critical thinking/visible thinking strategies this year. So far, so good!
I like that--what's in your "sensory corner?"
Hi Jerod, great to meet another dedicated educator.
This is big in a lot of places this year. Regulation and mindfulness.
Hello all. Sorry I'm late. Deep in the evening snoozes...
A1. With Ps permission, sharing S IEP goals with them so they know what they are working toward. IK,seems obvious, but not done B4
A1 I've been full throttle on using restorative practices! I've seen some productive results from it already
Great Man! https://t.co/COan2tL4vO
A1 I've been full throttle on using restorative practices! I've seen some productive results from it already
I didn't know Ted left. Always like hearing that Gorham's well.
. I sent info. to my curriculum director. I'm considering it!
I don't think I ever signed up for that--it's been so busy, but sounded very interesting.
Likewise. We are great when United!
I know we'd benefit from our time sharing on 10/28 with Jon Saphier. https://t.co/m2wia6EVgE
. I sent info. to my curriculum director. I'm considering it!
Terrific to do that--especially at 8th grade when they can take so much ownership for learning.
Sometimes the simple solutions are the best solutions. https://t.co/6PkC1M8WjG
A1. With Ps permission, sharing S IEP goals with them so they know what they are working toward. IK,seems obvious, but not done B4
I wish I had found a way to create balance this year. Always have more passions than time.
You're not surprised that I'm going on 10/28, right? https://t.co/HTSkVsvrh2
I don't think I ever signed up for that--it's been so busy, but sounded very interesting.
This is how I feel... https://t.co/9V1nFXDYQ5
I wish I had found a way to create balance this year. Always have more passions than time.
. mats, swing frame & swings), bouncy chair, peanut ball, several large balls, positioning wedges, huge beanbag, window
On my calendar. Missed due to illness. Hopefully lightning won't strike 2x
I share that challenge :)--better than the opposite dilemma
. agreed. He's one of the best!
Not at all--sounds very exciting.
How much worse it would be to have the reverse, though.
question2 is my first and last Yes on 2 vote
question2 is my first and last Yes on 2 vote
Super! How did you fund all those great objects.
Sounds awesome!!! https://t.co/7yAcQmsUGI
. mats, swing frame & swings), bouncy chair, peanut ball, several large balls, positioning wedges, huge beanbag, window
Sarah, k-5 music/band/chorus, checking into late
Q2 - Share evidence of the relationships being built this year that are supporting the learning.
you needed P permission to tell Ss their own goals??? We always talk with Ss about their goals/data.
A2 - To build deeper relationships. I'm listening better, making more and supporting all Learner challenges.
A2: Ss are being very open in class journal entries. Seem to really be applying content & skills to their own lives
We started w/lots of great events, now we're spending lots of time getting to know individual Ss--a very kind class :)
Reflections are so beneficial... https://t.co/L44MZKB6yQ
A2: Ss are being very open in class journal entries. Seem to really be applying content & skills to their own lives
Same here in Maine. Wouldn't make sense to hide it from the Ss. They need to know the targets. https://t.co/miSbQepOU7
you needed P permission to tell Ss their own goals??? We always talk with Ss about their goals/data.
a1: lots of student-generated musical creations - so easy to put patterns up on the interactive whiteboard!
Q2 Feel like I know families better than ever this year. Working to stay in touch about strong starts from many.
Happy to do it. Amplifying your signal. Go
I've created shared Google docs for Guidance, SPED and Teachers to share communication on Learners. Great so far!
Its all about and having authentic conversations with students about growth.
A2: I'm in a new district this year, doing lots of reaching out to families and classroom teachers to build trust and share info
A2 Building relationships with the staff since I’m new to the building. Building that trust where they know I’m there to support
https://t.co/xY8jaH3a7W
Q2 Feel like I know families better than ever this year. Working to stay in touch about strong starts from many.
A2, cont'd: I already have a list of names of Ss who whose families will receive Positive Postcards home
Just curious, do your Ss journal by hand or electronically?
Don't know if I need it. Wanted 2 be safe. Never know what parents will object to. Trying 2 get more Ss to IEP mtgs
We must model the openness and reflection we want to see with staff and students!
Trust is where to start... https://t.co/hr5ZtZjqTY
A2: I'm in a new district this year, doing lots of reaching out to families and classroom teachers to build trust and share info
We collaborate better when trust is the foundation... https://t.co/j9HOhSpQ1x
A2 Building relationships with the staff since I’m new to the building. Building that trust where they know I’m there to support
. we use Google Docs/Classroom for our journal entries
Boom! is with us. All is balanced in the universe. Hi Steve!!
I made 5 today and 3 were gasping, stunned and so grateful. https://t.co/5uJM8FXTyx
A2, cont'd: I already have a list of names of Ss who whose families will receive Positive Postcards home
. Collaboration Made Easy
. nice! I'm always amazed at how surprised families are to hear positive news
Seriously... how did we ever work before Gdocs??
I try to model positive goal setting when I work with Ts. They will then, hopefully, do so with Ss.
Trying to get into every classroom at least 3 days a week, more if i can. Good to be
Awesome to have with us in tonight! https://t.co/Bil2mhdKF9
Boom! is with us. All is balanced in the universe. Hi Steve!!
You're seeing every class 3X a week??!? Wow, Superman
My kids showed their Google Classroom to my wife this weekend.
Teachers are or will become grateful when Admins make time to share in classroom learning! https://t.co/ZdVKVvSLdn
Trying to get into every classroom at least 3 days a week, more if i can. Good to be
I just bring the S & their pre-written ideas to the mtg & watch the doubletakes.
We are adding Learning Walks with teachers. All grades (K8) see all grades. Very exciting.
Thank you for the follow!
Q3 - Identify how you’re using technology to reinforce the learning in this new school year.
Steve, really nice to have you in tonight!
A3 - Our freshman have ChromeBooks and like the Solve Me Mobiles. We're also using for planning.
A3 Our website is our "virtual classroom" has almost all classroom resources, photos, plans, calendar. . .
LOL! Maybe you need to write a book about it. "The Skinny Educator: Getting Fit by Supporting Ts"
A3 we are really focusing on model. Trying to move Ts along. after 14 yrs of MLTI I think we should be beyond Augmenting
Convinced a T today to use "new v used to" instead of "good/bad." Word v Google Docs. Change isn't always easy.
a3: My interactive projector makes it so easy for students to create musical patterns that show their thinking!
A3: We're in our second year as a 1:1 school. I want to focus on providing meaningful comments for Ss on their work
Tell me about "Solve Me Mobiles."
Sounds like I need to step up my bold
Wanted to share my recent work with my T's. Should fit nicly into ! Rethinking PD - Friday Focus... https://t.co/Kifq6p0EDg
Truth? Top-down mandate. I even made the schedule. Sorry, but we're doing it. Now to find usable data and reflection
Q2 - Share evidence of the relationships being built this year that are supporting the learning.
This sounds awesome, tell me more.
Rik, happy to chime in for a few! 😀
A3. As of yesterday, all of my students have permission for global social media collaboration projects! (Just in time for )
- has been my obsession all summer. Such great resources and ideas. Also love the podcost.
It's an Epson Brightlink projector with pens that turn it into a touch screen for the computer (1/2)
District bought enough chromebooks for Ts as well. All in, all excited.
. I love but didn't know they had a podcast!!!! Adding it to my list
A3. Created my own classroom onGoogle this year. So much easier to track and comment on student work
We are shifting as not only integrating devices, but also integrating , and .
I make templates with notes/rhythms and blank spots in google slides and then drag and drop to write their own music
I do have the advantage that most of mine are over 14, so legally they're *supposed* to be there.
Yup. Thinking first. device later.
Thanks Rik. I saw all the answers and realized I missed the question
schools now thinking into later starts for 6-12 next year. Respect the person.
so I wasn't' the only one! :)
I spent time today I seeing math classes and then debriefing. So powerful
Totally horking this!!! THANK YOU!
Looks like terrific resource. New to me, thanks!
From the Parents of , I heard the learning is more meaningful due to the relationships built!
Q4 - What is proving useful in helping new teachers acclimate into your building?
Yes! I've been saying this cine I first went to MDPC in Burlington a few years ago. https://t.co/7zhTlPrAir
Yup. Thinking first. device later.
Mine are invited, too. Turning 14 this year. Very few want to come. Very few parents on board either
You know, it's kinda true. By saying "I want my room to be a " you're saying you're not making things now.
A4 - To support our new Teachers, we're sharing Google docs to keep the communication open and flowing!
RT Q4 - What is proving useful in helping new teachers acclimate into your building?
a4: I'm new to my district - Ts always being willing to help each other is key! It's all about what's best for students!
same! Just got in for the day. 8th grade parent/student meeting for our annual DC trip. 300 kids going!
A4: In addition to their official mentors, new Ts have many unofficial mentors among their colleagues. Many eager to help!
Reading also looking into later start. Not sure if it is a go yet
Provide open access to resources and encourage staff to utilize technology to access it. https://t.co/bwCZWcSXF0
A4 - To support our new Teachers, we're sharing Google docs to keep the communication open and flowing!
New Ts need to be raised on trust. Admins and coaches bring the sincerity Support, not gotcha.
Hard. Sometimes I start first year by writing something to submit&leave, or just sit&listen (not participate)
Yes! Education is the relationship business. https://t.co/grwvCYdCRl
Edu is a relationship business! Without building those relationships, no one is going to sit and listen for 180 day… https://t.co/80g8CdXE3W
From the Parents of , I heard the learning is more meaningful due to the relationships built!
Lots of schools in So Maine have gone to a later start for 6-12. Seems to be a https://t.co/zsvvBE7p9U
Reading also looking into later start. Not sure if it is a go yet
We've had later start 2 years now. Not sure what I think. Most of my Ss are up with the sun!
Rebecca, jump into if you can!
Where are you? science is unanimous. districts i know of reporting positive results
Remember to connect and expand your PLN tonight!
Also in MS attending mtgs is not the norm. It might be more so in HS. Trying to begin normalizing it for 8th
Q5 - How can Learners new to your building be best integrated?
Let's welcome Rebecca {} to tonight! All waving!
A5 - We have many new Learners this year and we're focusing on relationship-building first and foremost!
I don't doubt it's good for the general education population. Just not necessarily for "my kids"
New teachers and admins need mentors who are positive and will talk openly. We're in this together. You fail, I fail.
HUGE!! https://t.co/GiM6xNAvpk
New teachers and admins need mentors who are positive and will talk openly. We're in this together. You fail, I fail.
Welcome Rebecca. Glad to have you with us
Lots of loving attention and care :) Opportunity to meet other Ss/staff--study, learn, create w/them.
RT Q5 - How can Learners new to your building be best integrated?
Rebecca, our Ladies really are this sweet!
A5: Get to know them first. Then focus on everything else
New Ss also need "mentors" of sorts. How to get around. Where things are. Trust and belief in Ts and Admins and building.
I start(ed) it with my Ss when they start(ed) with me in 6th. (I have 6-9th graders.)
Pleased to have such a lively Crew tonight!
a5: building relationships! My goal for the year is to have real conversations with 3 or more Ss outside of music class every day.
. do you have a peer mentoring program at your school?
Yes, and there are times when we reach beyond obvious choices to find someone who's the right fit.
A5: this year we had a student success summit. Welcomed ALL students. Like an institute day but for kidshttp://goo.gl/U9mvVA
It's all about perspective. Lunch duty? Opportunity to connect w/Ss. Bus duty? Chatting w/Ss about their day. Etc, etc.
A5. Give them time to explore, build on what they were doing, build relationships, before starting everything new.
This!!! https://t.co/Qo8m8LZKAm
A5: this year we had a student success summit. Welcomed ALL students. Like an institute day but for kidshttp://goo.gl/U9mvVA
. awesome! I may reach out to you at some point. May look into developing something for admin. practicum hours
recess duty has been such a help in learning names of my 400+ students!
The link didn't work. Can you post again?
Any way I can help, let me know.
Off topic--is your profile pic the trail to Mt. Washington by the southern peaks?
So observant... https://t.co/UwxKwhLKvr
Off topic--is your profile pic the trail to Mt. Washington by the southern peaks?
Good spin on recess duty. "Conversation time for T's and Ss"
maybe it's because I'm propagnosic, but that boggles my mind! 400???
Q6 - Share how you’ve reached out to encourage Learners or Parents of Learners so far this year.
A6 - We make at least two a week to Parents to share of the great learning happening in school. I made 5 today!
School Committee launched FB page this year. PPL are very appreciative
Music for a k-5 school - I see almost all of our Ss once per week!
A6. journals, , parent/guardian visits (want to do more of that!), and daily notes home.
. it's part of being a specialist teacher...can't imagine 400, but I have 250 Ss.
Relationships Matter! https://t.co/GM1EGVY3hi
A6. journals, , parent/guardian visits (want to do more of that!), and daily notes home.
A6 - One of my SMART Goals is to contact the Parents of ALL our Learners this year!
I have to start doing this :)
also a lot of fun. This 5'2" teacher tried to slam dunk today. "It was a good effort" says 3rd grader
Encouragement... https://t.co/hLvWEqeLIj
also a lot of fun. This 5'2" teacher tried to slam dunk today. "It was a good effort" says 3rd grader
We can't forget to have fun!
How do you help Ss make better observations? etc
. I tried this last year...fell short. But, I contacted a LOT of families. Finding positives in all learners
Nice, I did that many years ago--beautiful!
did a Lip dub to start the year. The whole school participated, even challenged others schs. Lot of fun
a6: lots of phone calls and emails to follow up on parent questions - parents are so involved at my school and it's awesome!
I'm a severe sped teacher. I have 3 full time students and 1 consult student.
A6: I'll continue with my Positive Post Cards again this year
Great way to know each child--in fact I'm going to move it to front page of our website after this chat
https://t.co/RuXtWQrfPQ
a6: lots of phone calls and emails to follow up on parent questions - parents are so involved at my school and it's awesome!
Rik you always bring the heart and the fun :)
A6: I've been using Autocrat to email families re: missing work. I almost always get a response saying thanks for the info
Some Ts just filmed promo with their class. Whole school's buzzing.
A6: This year I flipped my open house and created a video so ALL parents could see, not just those in attendance
totally spaced on tonight. Hope to join in next week!
You don't have Ss without media clearance that would feel left out of a project like that???
It's incredible what happens when Ts get out of their comfort zone in front of Ss!
Our next is Tuesday 10/25 (4th Tuesday of the month) https://t.co/dmxMXYfnsJ
totally spaced on tonight. Hope to join in next week!
Stunning Realization... https://t.co/CtPjKKj5cU
It's incredible what happens when Ts get out of their comfort zone in front of Ss!
so much respect for what you do! Different, challenging, important worlds.
Admins must convince Ts that it's correct to fail/flub. All part of https://t.co/miHtFc6ncv
It's incredible what happens when Ts get out of their comfort zone in front of Ss!
Yes! When all educators do! https://t.co/cDmRi9pzsN
It's incredible what happens when Ts get out of their comfort zone in front of Ss!
Q7 (last one) in one minute...
No, but we do check first. If we did ,we'd probably use an avatar or give some choices.
We need all of us for a truly inclusive well-rounded educational environment! https://t.co/Lg8H5isJzh
so much respect for what you do! Different, challenging, important worlds.
Great tonight!!! Thanks for leading and Have a great week!
Q7 - What’s driving you this year? Give us your “bumper sticker” slogan?
Maureen, we appreciate you sharing our tonight! Be inspirational as I know you are! https://t.co/JcsIQdw128
Great tonight!!! Thanks for leading and Have a great week!
Agreed. Any real EDU knows that little to nothing goes smoothly.
&Inspire That's the bumpah stickah in Gorham, Maine
A7. We're not here to help students. We're here to teach students to help themselves.
A7: "Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all" -Artistotle
Thank you to my co-moderator for his ongoing support of and me! Great chat tonight!
do you have this one on a poster? Need this on my wall!
A7: We are all working together to help our kids reach their goals. Everyone will succeed!
A7: I might need to sleep on this one. Need to narrow down a ton of words into a slogan. Thinking cap on
Remember to follow new friends. Huge thx 2 for inspiring tonight into reality.
Remember to follow new friends. Huge thx 2 for inspiring tonight into reality.
