#BFC530 Archive
The Breakfast Club – #BFC530 – is a 15 minute, 1 question Twitter chat every weekday. We chat in 4 timezones Mon-Fri – 5:30am Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific Times. The mission of BFC is to empower participants to make a difference in education by engaging in consistent reflective practice in a supportive community that inspires and challenges one another.
Monday March 7, 2016
As a BT teacher, I understand the need for emotional support, but we need more than just that.
Today's : How've you helped professionals new to your organization (or wish you'd been supported)? - https://t.co/bCROIgey3R
on my husband's bucket list!
we need to be able to observe and witness evidence based practices taking place in other classrooms
I want back to my Alma Mater and couldn't of asked for a warmer welcome from former teachers turned colleagues! Awesome PLC
Id like to start off by saying that this is something that I NEED to do better.
Good Morning! Stacey from NJ. Today's Q has me thinking...it's going to be a good chat! https://t.co/9CbOIULvp8
Tomorrow's How have you supported new folks to your organization (or wish you'd been supported)? - https://t.co/7OrPG0RU9c
Good morning, . I'm Ku, Learning Coach, Argentina
Good morning What is the question today?
It's near and dear to my heart. And I think most of us can relate.
great mentors don't tell you how to do things but rather guide you through the problem solving process.
Good morning - it's easy to when I begin it w all of you! Marifran, hs librarian from NY
Good morning! The bullet bikes are the ones racing down the road in the middle of the night--scary & loud!
Since our school has a shared leadership model, we make them feel like leaders from day 1...value their input, perspective, & ideas.
Ditto . I have lots of room for improvement in this area https://t.co/bOB5GY2fXk
Id like to start off by saying that this is something that I NEED to do better.
Our Sci Chair and I have been building a OneNote to help with this.
Good morning & happy Monday friends! David MS Principal from VA here.
morning all Eric in NJ. Support, share, take time to show them how the system works (& where the coffee is ) https://t.co/MXbMEiYsxA
Today's : How've you helped professionals new to your organization (or wish you'd been supported)? - https://t.co/bCROIgey3R
Fair to say that most of us could do better at this. Nobody is perfect and situations are fluid. Can't know all.
In CT all BT are assigned a mentor.
Mentorship, both formal and informal, has been a key way of supporting new teachers and administrators.
I had an awesome mentor when I started. We shared a room. Definitely supportive in first year. She still is.
Good Monday morning --had a really fun weekend with visit from college friend and skiing, struggle to get back into school brain!
Sometimes I think it is hard to give enough support without overstepping.
In fact, it's possible to help too much. Or to try to be so helpful that the person feels stressed by it.
Good morning . Glad to with all of you!
those can take your breath away in daylight - screaming thru the night is terrifying
yes good modeling, not pushy everyone will adapt it for themselfs
Good morning! Drew from PA. Biology teacher and first time chatter
The Learning Coaches are planning a pre-orientation session for our new teachers coming in regarding school initiatives.
Good morning . Good question today. I try to check in often w/new people. Sometimes it's hard 2 know how 2 help.
Welcome. This is an amazing group!
I think we need to formalize the mentor process and it should be someone with a similar teaching load as you.
Opportunities to engage in collaborative learning, alongside colleagues, in classrooms, has worked well.
About How have you helped professionals new to your organization (or wish you'd been supported)"
sound relevant?
I feel like it's been a while since I've made it on time 😀 so very happy to with the good people of ! 😆
I've created several New Teacher resources pages on our intranet to get them started and show them how the mouse trap works
brain, we don't need no stinkin' brain https://t.co/mpUH6SMFcG
Good Monday morning --had a really fun weekend with visit from college friend and skiing, struggle to get back into school brain!
I also think new teachers should get 2 extra days in the building at the beginning of the year to consider room setup etc..
That's exactly how I feel
I need to do better as well. I show them what I have to offer in the MC & let them know I'm there for them, but it's not enough.
Good morning EST! Just popping in to say hi and I miss you!
Sometimes we get wrapped up in our own world...mentoring needs to be intentional
Yes! We learn so much by watching each other teach and then reflecting on what we see. Including new Ts!
You'll be glad you did. Amazing group of educators here. Ellen first grade T from NC.
Good a.m. everyone! Being friendly & helpful is what I do, but then after a few months, I've forgotten they are new. Need 2 do btr
Wish I would've had someone teaching more about grades If I'd known then what I know now...
We just created a G Classroom for all new Ts & their mentors across the district.
Happy Monday! Went to a terrific conference Thursday and Friday. Excited to share with colleagues at school!
My thought was not about mentors, though that would included. It's what anybody would do to be welcoming. Not teaching.
Nothing could be better than the level of support I received from my mentor . We should all be so lucky.
We, new and experienced educators, often learn best by 'doing' together in classrooms, with kids.
We assign a mentor. I also have regular meetings with BT&those Ts new to the building. Kind of a support group
There needs to be a website that helps the teachers find materials. We throw too much info at them at once.
Happy Monday
Brian, HS principal from Mass.
I am a mentor teacher for new Ts to our district. Building positive relationships is vital to our success as Ts.
I wish I'd been assigned a mentor or buddy every time I'd changed schools. I wouldn't have felt like I was being a bother.
I love the idea of a buddy-program... an informal support, personalities should gel or it will fall flat. https://t.co/KIiqTtAfLT
Today's : How've you helped professionals new to your organization (or wish you'd been supported)? - https://t.co/bCROIgey3R
In addition, our Ts receive great support from our counseling department to focus on the social-emotional when moving here.
After my experience w my last move 5 yrs ago, I try to reach out to everyone who arrives - w varying results
Both thinking back to when I was new, and how I try to help newbies today=sharing resources. It's so hard to start from scratch!
I waiver on the idea of a new teacher seminar. would that take up too much of their time?
I have a practicum Ss with me trying to spend lot's of planning time with him, introduce to all Ts encourage visiting other class
My first day at school last week, found out the school has NO COFFEE I was devastated.
I can relate. My eyes are still reluctantly open.
We are a supportive group. We rally when someone needs support or help. New Ts or veterans. All on the same page.
An enhanced mentor pgm and common planning time has benefitted new Ts in my school.
For me, planning and conversation were key. I do some of my best learning working it out together!
Good morning Lori from central OH ....Happy Monday!
Sometimes like that with teaching in the classroom, too. 😊
We have that scheduled into the new year, but I think it needs to be re-visited. Allways so overwhelming. https://t.co/mLPXdeCiGK
I also think new teachers should get 2 extra days in the building at the beginning of the year to consider room setup etc..
Invite them out to events both professional & social. Its the quickest, most real way to build their confidence & sense of belonging
yes show need & benefits of collaboration.
2nd year teacher! helped me learn my strengths and what questions to be asking
I was a literacy ciach, helped new teachers with curriculum
Creating a school environment where adding someone new to the team is exciting and not threatening is key
You can flip the seminar so they can view it when they have time.
My thought for this questions goes beyond mentorship. what everyone does in the organization when a newcomer joins.
Good morning ! It's been a while since I joined in the chat--excited to have time this morning!
This would be great for all teachers! We have a shared network drive, but it's rarely updated https://t.co/fzIv5m6p7E
There needs to be a website that helps the teachers find materials. We throw too much info at them at once.
ain't that the truth - some don't even want a cup of coffee and a quiet place to make a phone call.
VA beach has an official mentor program for all Ts new to. The district
I am one who loves to learn new tech, so I've given proff dev on new curric, and often have othr Ts coming 2 me 4 help. Just be open
Our district offers new teacher orientation and then building level orientation time w/ Admin and mentoring T
welcome back friend !! https://t.co/tjVoNtp0JB
Good morning ! It's been a while since I joined in the chat--excited to have time this morning!
True. If I were the Principal, id at least meet with the brand new teachers.
So true, everyone needs something different. Hard to know what to do sometimes.
Departments sharing instruction strategies and assessments helps as well.
Mentoring, or providing a mentor, is key to helping new Ts!
As a new T to my school, I benefited from weekly check-ins from my mentor T, sharing of resources, basic kindness & compassion.
BBS coaches work to support new teachers upon arrival in Kuwait in August with a structured instructional welcome program
Thank you! How are ya? I'm still so excited abt the course you're teaching next year!!
essential https://t.co/ipNzzKfhgl
As a new T to my school, I benefited from weekly check-ins from my mentor T, sharing of resources, basic kindness & compassion.
I always grow so much as an educator when I visit other schools and watch professionals exhibiting their craft.
In Mass., you must have a mentor your first two years.
Thank you. And Even when you are a seasoned vet, new to an organization is still new.
Should walkthrough observations be different for brand new teachers?
The simple things...like where the teacher's restrooms are, how to find the laminator, where to get a good salad. Need a handbook!
I have been an official NTIP (new teacher induction program) mentor for 2 new teachers.
We all can be without the official title.
And yet I think it's all about mentorship. However, we're 'breaking mentorship open' this morning.
I have young staff/tutors come into my room and ask for ideas. I love that. We develop friendships.
My thought for this questions goes beyond mentorship. what everyone does in the organization when a newcomer joins.
Yes I have to say it was overwhelming entering your county, even a seasoned veteran like myself. https://t.co/2o4xaNhcfe
This would be great for all teachers! We have a shared network drive, but it's rarely updated https://t.co/fzIv5m6p7E
There needs to be a website that helps the teachers find materials. We throw too much info at them at once.
If an instructional coach is an option, USE him/her!!
as silly as it may sound, eating lunch by myself for the first couple of weeks in a new bldg stuck w me
been good talking it up !! trying to get Ss !!
I do not drink coffee but I had it available if any staff member wanted it. Start your own coffee club.
Informally, I try to be friendly & available so that new teachers can feel comfortable asking me questions.
We have that built, but don't think they use it as much as I'd like. https://t.co/CpaNuGx23S
This would be great for all teachers! We have a shared network drive, but it's rarely updated https://t.co/fzIv5m6p7E
There needs to be a website that helps the teachers find materials. We throw too much info at them at once.
The biggest thing for me is to check my assumptions--don't assume someone already explained something or that they know everything!
Yes. I love when teachers come and find me before theres an issue.
When working with new teachers it's important to remember you were there once and provide positive support through sharing ideas.
We used to have a mentoring program, but it faded away. With all the new Ts we are getting it's needed more than ever.
International schools did MUCH better for me when joining than US public schools have done. It was purposeful.
My old Ppal always met w new Ts for 1sts- 1st day, week, BTSN,mp, half of the year. We knew we were in it together.
Priot to the school year start, we also have a lunch for new Ts when we go over a lot of the minutiae before Ss are in the building.
you and me both! This is an area that is so important and needed.
Here's a blog summary of suggestions I gave to a group of soon to be Ts at a local university: https://t.co/RpWO56onFm Thoughts?
Copier chats are a great welcome.
Same with the coaches at BBS in Kuwait. Would love to ask you more about your program as we are setting up ours!
Also model transparency and authenticity. Build and nurture the relationship with new Ts.
Yesterday I read a post from a T friend on FB who talked about teaching from his heart not to the test. Inspired me.
It's the reaching out that counts. Sends a message: I care. People around you care. https://t.co/1zrORW8sz9
After my experience w my last move 5 yrs ago, I try to reach out to everyone who arrives - w varying results
Our district has a 1 day new teacher orientation for basic get to know the community things, general district info. etc.
Understanding the school culture and town culture is something that's overlooked. Makes a big difference if you know that info.
Have also encouraged new Ts & Practicum S to get on board with and Specifically to expand PLN
View it as a time investment that will pay off big time later!
I've been there too. Having someone offer to sit with you makes a huge difference.
Good morning, Ku! Great to see you. Have a fabulous week!
Co-plan, co-teach, co-reflect and co-learn...powerful stuff!
G'morning, . Struggling to clear the fog in my head this AM. 'Helping new professionals', eh? OK. https://t.co/ubyDjUCkPM
New Ts introduced at 1st faculty meeting, email for new later in year--with a little background info easier to make convo
is now trending in USA, ranking 25
That's an awesome idea! I feel a summer project coming on... :)
Just smile and say hi! Means so much
Yes, resources. But most schools are starting from scratch in Common Core, so all are on page 1. Not just newbies.
is trending on Twitter in
When I taught in Calgary there were new T 1/2 day workshops at the beginning of the year. These were extremely helpful.
Omg yes. Looking back/forward again, that is critical. it makes the old-timers feel valued-acknowledged. https://t.co/k8Gn6uyLf6
My thought for this questions goes beyond mentorship. what everyone does in the organization when a newcomer joins.
I second this! Just knowing you have a consistent person to touch base with is invaluable.
What does it say about school culture if you don't have teachers who step up to help new teachers ... mentor without title?
Agreed! I try to reach out to everyone (new and experienced).
I had a friend that no one talked to her her first 2 weeks. Sad.
it's my 5th yr in the same bldg and I know there are things I still don't know
For me it has always helped that I have people who listen. I strive to do that for others.
Try to blog w/ advice for new Ts in my board & beyond. My post about interviews is my most read: https://t.co/CDBzscNWnj
This is brilliant Eric. Visiting other classes. Being invited in. https://t.co/bUD9aBQhES
I have a practicum Ss with me trying to spend lot's of planning time with him, introduce to all Ts encourage visiting other class
Yes! Transparency is so imp-sometimes bringing new ppl in can shake up teams & it's important to have open dialogue
Good point. Speaks volumes.
https://t.co/E3jvIlZ74X
What does it say about school culture if you don't have teachers who step up to help new teachers ... mentor without title?
You'd think this was a given, but maybe not? Can't imagine not seeing the boss on day one, and talking.
yes informal mentoring often better, need culture of sharing & collaboration https://t.co/397yqvqE7b
What does it say about school culture if you don't have teachers who step up to help new teachers ... mentor without title?
the problem is that mentoring a new teacher can easily fall off one's plate. It needs to be a system.
us two should go bowling and swap stories - it normalizes but wow, it leaves an impression
Happy Monday, everyone! I hope you had a great weekend and are ready for the week ahead!
We put 1 together for r BT's. A Who to C for What list
Yes and time needs to be given
Sounds great! Let's chat.
yes fresh voices and ideas, combined with experiences and resources !! https://t.co/1AAr2xjFX2
Yes! Transparency is so imp-sometimes bringing new ppl in can shake up teams & it's important to have open dialogue
The problem with new teachers is sometimes they don't know what they don't know.
Yes, as a newbie here in MD- that is much needed. https://t.co/1HIgevflU1
Understanding the school culture and town culture is something that's overlooked. Makes a big difference if you know that info.
. Absolutely! More often! shouldn't look for 'gotchas' but growth moments, mentors, too! https://t.co/HFe2FpwD4q
Should walkthrough observations be different for brand new teachers?
How so? https://t.co/FnZFgU8Udj
the problem is that mentoring a new teacher can easily fall off one's plate. It needs to be a system.
You bring up a good issue. Sometimes new to organization means overwhelmed with people reaching out.
Im thinking a monthly meeting. just to check in. like group therapy.
I think they should. There should be an area for , instead of being dinged for making a mistake.
Ten principals I worked under did not go out of their way to counsel, help or support new teachers.
great topic on mentoring and inspiring this morning! https://t.co/iOPdN2ecUS
Sometimes we get wrapped up in our own world...mentoring needs to be intentional
What was the difference, and why do you think it's different in the US? How did they go the extra mile?
absolutely! Another example of what we want/expect for our Ss yet forget to extend to the ppl we work w
Have a great Thanks for another great convo!
I totally agree! New teachers should see the importance of their digital knowledge & power bc they know these tools
Also in Calgary, the Ts union organized a mentor program and provided a stipend for both mentor & mentee 2 use at their discretion.
We are all busy, but we should never be too busy to help a new teacher or help one stuck in the weeds.
We spend the 1st half of the year having them do the observations, but really emphasize their providing us good feedback.
It's like the study that says when some1 needs help & loads of ppl around, ppl are less likely to get involved.
we have a teacher to teacher schedule for Ts to put lessons on a shared doc to see others in action https://t.co/tRY4Wzj0no
This is brilliant Eric. Visiting other classes. Being invited in. https://t.co/bUD9aBQhES
I have a practicum Ss with me trying to spend lot's of planning time with him, introduce to all Ts encourage visiting other class
I feel that many new Ts feel like they are all alone. They shouldn't feel that way.
As a new teacher I felt very little support from leadership, but my co-workers were AMAZING! Thanks
Excellent summer project. I know I'd love to have had one on my first day. https://t.co/lbL6lzBLDX
That's an awesome idea! I feel a summer project coming on... :)
precisely. Everyone else had their store bought coffee. I was crushed. first world prob
I also mentored someone years ago who wanted no part of help. She was young and knew it all.
Wouldn't team teaching for the first month be a great idea instead of mentoring
Guiding new, especially work-inexperienced, Ts through the politics and culture of a district is crucial https://t.co/7cSZbAPlcJ
Understanding the school culture and town culture is something that's overlooked. Makes a big difference if you know that info.
, , Lakers , , Kim K , , , , ,
Yes--it's important for the old members to be OPEN to having things shaken up a bit. :)
Sometimes educators new to profession just want to be heard...listening can work wonders, sometimes.
Yes! https://t.co/zZAJKR4CHh
Excellent point! Veteran teachers, teacher leaders, and admin must keep this in mind as new teachers get acclimated.
You are amazing! Choose to make a difference in your community today!
Yes, we have one for rules & such, but that's more what I am thinking about.
Our school has a mentor program for new teachers to the school. They meet once a month. I think it's been really great.
get that woman a coffee maker - stat!
what about having really well trained mentors that can help them set up their room AND check off seminar points 1:1
As an experienced teacher,I find mentorship to be a crock. Really.It's one person's perspective. It's supremely biased
Whenever I meet new/pre-service Ts I encourage them to ask Qs & reach out in the future w/ any needs or Qs. I wish I'd had that!
Why not?I think as new T,whether 2 school or brand new,I'd appreciate relationship built by this
I believe 2 of my colleagues attended & presented at same conference. Hope it was a great educational experience
Thanks 4 a great start to the week! Enjoy ur Monday.
by starting off with my friends! Have a great day everyone!
Ten?! Whoa! That is too high of a number.
The most important thing I can say to a new T is that I value YOUR opinion. Your new set of eyes will help ME be a better T.
Тот враг опаснее, который притворяется твоим другом.
Thanks my friends! Let's go ! Have a great day!
Yeah, that and nobody even making eye contact or introducing themselves. uggh.
We can't expect one "mentor" to do it all ... takes a village to make sure teacher needs are met. Every T is a mentor
Already on it! Great idea. Thank you!!!!!!
Mostly missed BFC today, but hope everyone has an awesome day!
So true, bc the hope is that while we're listening we're also valuing their contribution--builds such a stronger team
Indeed! It all starts with relationships and trust...whether its with Ss or a new T.
Someone needs to shepherd new Ts through the angst & frustration of feeling overwhelmed & under water.
Our does too. In addition to regular meetings, mentors & mentees observe each other. (Or they are supposed to.)
I had a mentor my first year, but neighbor teacher/team leader gave the best knowledge
I also think veteran Ts new 2 a district/school need a mentor. This may not be 4 as long as a new T needs it, but still necessary.
Truly you all have been my mentors and inspiration. Wish I could have had you since I first stepped in the classroom! Thank you!
hopefully !!!! https://t.co/kAu8doMFhD
We can't expect one "mentor" to do it all ... takes a village to make sure teacher needs are met. Every T is a mentor
Thanks for the great start of the week--have a Marvelous Monday everyone :)
I support new teacher by always signing up to be a teacher mentor. Textbooks & Apps don't give new teachers classroom reality.
Good for you! Pay it forward!
classroom management. A well planned lesson and great materials can fall apart without a structured learning environment.
In MA there is a mentoring program/ protocol
Unfortunate. Working collab with new educators, bringing each other's perspectives together can mean powerful learning.
brilliant - what a solid way to build collegiality / collaborative experiences / culture https://t.co/fmPUvXzA4F
we have a teacher to teacher schedule for Ts to put lessons on a shared doc to see others in action https://t.co/tRY4Wzj0no
This is brilliant Eric. Visiting other classes. Being invited in. https://t.co/bUD9aBQhES
I have a practicum Ss with me trying to spend lot's of planning time with him, introduce to all Ts encourage visiting other class
Stacey this is precisely what my vision is. Making it known that new professional is welcome by all. https://t.co/YohtzVuKxL
Agreed! I try to reach out to everyone (new and experienced).
I need to go get ready for an early team leadership meeting. Thanks for the insights this am. Have a marvelous Monday!
OK friends, keep the convo on this topic going over at voxer Spark chat ( other topics go over to the lounge !! )
Horrible. . Such a shame. https://t.co/F0yVEmwtdD
Ten principals I worked under did not go out of their way to counsel, help or support new teachers.
we can try - may not always succeed but the trying is important
Have 2 step out ! Catch you later. Remember 2 . We'll be having a 2-min dance party to celebrate 1st wk of .
I try to check in with our new teacher a lot. I'm knew to the school too, so I don't have a lot of the answers though.
This is the kind of thing that shouldn't happen. People prolly thought: mentor's job. not mine. https://t.co/Zf3KdnjK1d
I had a friend that no one talked to her her first 2 weeks. Sad.
True. All teachers feel that way at one time or another. We only keep our heads above water by supporting each other!
wish I could take credit for it, but just a participant, works well though !! https://t.co/mZZdYCeRXq
brilliant - what a solid way to build collegiality / collaborative experiences / culture https://t.co/fmPUvXzA4F
we have a teacher to teacher schedule for Ts to put lessons on a shared doc to see others in action https://t.co/tRY4Wzj0no
This is brilliant Eric. Visiting other classes. Being invited in. https://t.co/bUD9aBQhES
I have a practicum Ss with me trying to spend lot's of planning time with him, introduce to all Ts encourage visiting other class
Ditto! https://t.co/vx0MnIakbs
Truly you all have been my mentors and inspiration. Wish I could have had you since I first stepped in the classroom! Thank you!
That's not been my experience. I've found mentorship to be about a share learning journey, over time, with colleagues.
Int'l schools knew that all were needing adjustment, and all had been there. In US, newcomers were isolated cases.
Two of the most important values inside school as well as in life!
But you must know that I like having my thinking challenged! 😊
Maybe not, but it's always appreciated to know that someone is there for, and with, you!
it can assumptions - "new, bet she's really busy", "experienced T, bet she knows ppl" - or looking but not seeing
A lot of districts have them...it is important that the lead learners in the schools follow them & really help.
A good introduction ... let the new teachers know who you are and that you are there to help.
And I kept bringing it up like a big baby. "No coffee? Really? No where? Where did you get yours?" Wah. LOL
We go out of our way to make new Ss feel welcome and a part of our school community. Why wouldn't we think/feel the same abt new Ts?
Ugh. And we wonder why new Ts leave the profession in high numbers. Sad
New coffee club about to start.
Agreed! Our Twitter PLN offers amazing professional learning/mentor support! We are blessed!
Anything in place for you in MD? How's it going?
THIS! https://t.co/l20mFcfZ6T
We go out of our way to make new Ss feel welcome and a part of our school community. Why wouldn't we think/feel the same abt new Ts?
Have neer had a true mentor. Only seen from sidelines. Agree with your vision.
That's not been my experience. I've found mentorship to be about a shared learning journey, over time, with colleagues.
But we've never done that before. Why should NTs get off easy when we didn't? :)
Did you mean Ts shouldn't be blown up by ?
Totally. And remember that US is a horse of a different color in many respects. Often a worse color in terms of school
Time to get moving - what a perfect way to kick off the week! Have a good day - make it a happy one for someone else, too
HA! I'm all-in for hazing the new folks with a little torment & torture. But I want them to ultimately feel welcome!
Principals... nice just hear them ask ... "Everything alright?" "Need anything? "How's your day" "What can I do to help?"
Don't forget to friends! Support a colleague...new or not so new...in it together! 😊
Don't forget to friends! Support a colleague...new or not so new...in it together! 😊
Just a little. Hazing has been banned in HS and College. :)
Thanks for your thoughts. Can't join the later chats bc school. Appreciate your participations. Hearts.
Things are well! Presenting a Leading Future Learning conference this week w/ a team from Excited!
We don't always have to have the answer, sometimes it helps just to know you're not alone.
As always, thanks for positive thoughts & ideas Time to get ready to with the best 6th graders I know!
