#dojochat Archive

ClassDojo's official educational chat that covers a variety of subjects, focusing mainly on improving classroom community.

Wednesday December 5, 2018
7:00 PM EST

  • ClassDojo - Moderator Dec 5 @ 7:00 PM EST
    Here we go... #dojochat starts NOW 🎉 RT to invite your friends and let's chat Balance: how to handle the holiday madness 🤪 Take it away @Mrs2ndGradeWCS 🙌
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:00 PM EST
    It’s that time! #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:02 PM EST
    Hi, my name is Rachel and I'm a preservice teacher from Grove City College in PA. It's my freshman year and I'm majoring in Early Ed. I'm excited to see what amazing things I will learn from everyone. #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:02 PM EST
    I’m Jenna from San Francisco! I used to teach middle school science (now work at @ClassDojo) and I’m looking forward to going snowboarding in Lake Tahoe ❄️🏂🏽 #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:02 PM EST
    I’m your #dojochat host for this evening, Caylee. I teach 2nd grade ELA in small town, Ohio. I’m looking forward to a nice relaxing break with my family 💕
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:03 PM EST
    Hi Rachel! Welcome to #dojochat :D How is freshman year going so far?
    In reply to @RachelRowland10
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:04 PM EST
    Intro: Ms. Calabro, 7th grade Algebra 1 for 2 more weeks and then onto Comp Sci and 12th grade Precalc! Here in NY, and I’m excited to start my second Student Teaching placement in the hs after the new year! #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:04 PM EST
    Hi Caylee! Thanks for hosting today! How’s life in Ohio?? #dojochat
    In reply to @Mrs2ndGradeWCS
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:04 PM EST
    Hi Jenna! It's great so far, thanks for asking. Finals are right around the corner but that means Christmas break is too! #dojochat
    In reply to @jenna_orourke
  • Dale_Chu Dec 5 @ 7:05 PM EST
    HAPPENING NOW: @Mrs2ndGradeWCS hosting a chat on balance. Follow along at #dojochat! @ClassDojo
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:05 PM EST
  • ClassDojo - Moderator Dec 5 @ 7:08 PM EST
    Q1 from #dojochat is live! Join us :)
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:08 PM EST
    I’m Mollie from New Jersey. I’m an inclusion teacher for a bilingual inclusion kindergarten class. I’m looking forward to doing fun festive activities (going to NY to see the tree and ice skate, things with my family, etc.) #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:09 PM EST
    Hi Mollie! Thanks for joining us :) #dojochat
    In reply to @MissDunnigan_
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:09 PM EST
    A1 I like to make a list of priorities and complete each task before it gets to be overwhelming. This way I still have room for downtime as a student. #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:10 PM EST
    A1 - Go to sleep earlier :) This gives me more time in the morning to go to yoga, or read, or do whatever relaxes me and gets me in a good headspace before going into work! #dojochat
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:10 PM EST
    Hey guys! Cristina NJ K teacher, tech coach Q1 I force myself to go to bed early to work out in the AM currently doing 80 day obsession! #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:10 PM EST
    A1: Every Sunday afternoon, it is my day to grocery shop at target sans toddler and husband, with a Starbucks in hand 😊#dojochat
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:11 PM EST
    #A1 I try to focus on making plans so that I know I need to get things done so that I can stick to my plans and have time for myself or to be with others. Sometimes, it’s sporadic to reward myself as well if I know I have a lot to do, I’ll celebrate getting things done #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:11 PM EST
    Hi Cristina! What is 80 day obsession?? #dojochat
    In reply to @arenaABC
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:11 PM EST
    A1: Personally, watching one of my tvs I have recorded on my DVR is something small that makes me focus on something other than school/work. Gives me a mental break, and trying to make sure I sleep enough😴 #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:12 PM EST
    Q1 - Sometimes that also means doing absolutely nothing… binge watching my favorite show and snuggling with my puppy and not being stressed about what else i could be doing #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:13 PM EST
    sleep it crucial! if i don’t get a full 8 hours i’m useless :/ #dojochat
    In reply to @ms_calabro
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:13 PM EST
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:13 PM EST
    it's a @Beachbody program.... 80 days of cardio strength training with minimal equipment. You pay a yearly membership & get the "Netflix of workout videos" #dojochat
    In reply to @jenna_orourke, @Beachbody
  • ClassDojo - Moderator Dec 5 @ 7:13 PM EST
    Q2 in #dojochat is live!! Not too late to participate!
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:14 PM EST
    #A2 I’ve tried to cut it down to 2-3 days a week, and sometimes Fridays to look over on the weekend. If I’m in the groove for something, I feel like I need to bring it to complete so I know it gets done #dojochat
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:14 PM EST
    same! actual photo of me without my 8 hrs #dojochat
    In reply to @jenna_orourke, @ms_calabro
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:15 PM EST
    lol #dojochat
    In reply to @arenaABC, @ms_calabro
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:16 PM EST
    A2 - Tough to not bring work home if it will result in you having a better peace of mind at work the next day… it’s hard to find the right balance #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:17 PM EST
    A2: I truly try to leave work at work. There are times when it was a test day that I will bring a stack on the weekend to try to grade...but let’s be honest-they don’t get graded until I take them back to work on Monday 🤷‍♀️ #dojochat
  • JennMBarnes Dec 5 @ 7:18 PM EST
    A1 Honestly, on my calendar I have sweet traditional things scheduled. I just do the best I can getting everything else done - so then I feel like I've earned these others. #dojochat
    In reply to @Mrs2ndGradeWCS
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:18 PM EST
    Q2: This year I vowed to focus on me. Being a 6th year K teacher, I have most of the materials I need, so I have been good at separating home and work so far #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:18 PM EST
    A2 I don't have experience with this in a career but I imagine I would usually bring work back home to complete that night, I don't like leaving things unfinished. #dojochat
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:19 PM EST
    A2: Right now as a student teacher I always bring home my work, I only do my work at home, but I hope to change this in the future! I don’t have time to plan/create during the school day right now at least. #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:19 PM EST
    Ah yes I remember this life all too well. #dojochat
    In reply to @ms_calabro
  • mrmanlapid Dec 5 @ 7:20 PM EST
    A2: I try to get as much done in school by coming in an hour early and leaving 30 minutes after the last bell. If I need to take home work, I limit it to only one thing each school night. #dojochat
  • JennMBarnes Dec 5 @ 7:20 PM EST
    A2 Yikes! I feel like I'm breaking all the rules! Yes, I bring things home. I don't always get to them... One thing I definitely bring home is: my reflections! Through reflecting on how the day's gone, how a particular engagement went, I plan how we'll go from there. #dojochat
    In reply to @Mrs2ndGradeWCS
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:20 PM EST
    That’s a nice system! #dojochat
    In reply to @mrmanlapid
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:21 PM EST
    Well that’s a fantastic thing to ‘bring home’ — as I’m sure it benefits you in many many ways!! Good for you for reflecting every day. #dojochat
    In reply to @JennMBarnes, @Mrs2ndGradeWCS
  • mrmanlapid Dec 5 @ 7:22 PM EST
    A1: There are many special events and programs in your community during the holiday season. I try make time for myself during this busy time by simply enjoying a Christmas concert or lights display. #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:22 PM EST
  • EmyDelgado15 Dec 5 @ 7:24 PM EST
    Hi everyone! Emy, I teach 3rd grade in Orlando, Florida! I am looking forward to spending time with family and friends this holiday season!🎄 #dojochat
  • ClassDojo - Moderator Dec 5 @ 7:24 PM EST
    Share your best organizational tips with us! Q3 is live :) #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:24 PM EST
    Hi Emy! Thanks for joining :) #dojochat
    In reply to @EmyDelgado15
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:25 PM EST
    A3: Omg no one should EVER ask me for organization advice. I'm a mess! 😅 So I'll take some notes instead #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:26 PM EST
    A3 - Alllllllllll about a to do list. Always have one at work and at home. I also use the reminders app on my phone all the time. "Hey siri, set reminder 4pm Wednesday, #dojochat…."
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:26 PM EST
    A3: lists. Lists. Lists 📝#dojochat
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:26 PM EST
    A3: I take that back I doooo have many alarms and reminders on my phone. Anytime an idea or task pops in my head I just talk to Siri. #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:26 PM EST
    A3: As I share a living space with my roommate I've noticed how fast things can get messy if we both aren't staying on top of things. I like to pick up after myself after I complete a task, have specific spots for almost everything, and stay on top of my laundry 😅. #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:27 PM EST
    A3 - Alllllllllll about a to do list. Always have one at work and at home. I also use the reminders app on my phone all the time. "Hey siri, set reminder 4pm Wednesday, #dojochat …."
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:27 PM EST
    #A3 I make a lot of lists. I also write out steps (like directions) of what I need to do so I don’t miss parts when I do it. I’ll also write myself little note reminders as well. #dojochat
  • mrmanlapid Dec 5 @ 7:28 PM EST
    A3: 1. Create a priority list for each day. 2. Use prep time to actually prep materials for future lessons. 3. Compartmentalize all your paperwork and student work. 4. Keep your classroom materials minimal. 5. Don't seek for perfection! #dojochat
  • EmyDelgado15 Dec 5 @ 7:28 PM EST
    My fiance usually works one weekend day. The day that he is off we usually go out and do something fun such as pottery painting, Farmers market or going bowling. #dojochat
  • EmyDelgado15 Dec 5 @ 7:29 PM EST
    I bring my laptop home with me everyday. I would say I actually open it and work about 4 days a week. #dojochat
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:29 PM EST
    Yes! I love #5. #youdoyou #dojochat
    In reply to @mrmanlapid
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:30 PM EST
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:30 PM EST
    A3: I have multiple ways of planning and organizing. Trello boards, planners digital and physical, todo lists! #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:31 PM EST
    preach. #dojochat
    In reply to @arenaABC, @mrmanlapid
  • lindsayhelman Dec 5 @ 7:31 PM EST
    A3: Being intentional w/my time. On Mondays I prep next Monday and so on. I block out 10 minutes each day to look at data. I use plan time for my “to do” list. Lesson prep is after school. @Wunderlist is a game changer. I also use Google Calendar to block out my time #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:31 PM EST
    A4: I have no experience with incorporating different holidays into a classroom so I'm excited to hear the ideas you all share. #dojochat
  • EmyDelgado15 Dec 5 @ 7:31 PM EST
    I have a calendar on my desk at school. I write all of our school events, meetings, PDs on that calendar. #dojochat
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:31 PM EST
    #A4 Last year, I read a grade-appropriate story about each holiday, we watched a grade-appropriate video explaining the holiday (sometimes a cartoon), and then completed an activity about it. I plan on doing something similar this year as well. #dojochat
  • ClassDojo - Moderator Dec 5 @ 7:32 PM EST
    How do you approach holidays in the classroom? Share with us! #dojochat
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:32 PM EST
    A4: We do it all! I have an elf, we lit candles for Hannukah, had a school wide Diwali celebration, and I invite parents to read for the kids about their traditions. #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:32 PM EST
    Don’t know what I’d do without google calendar…. #dojochat
    In reply to @lindsayhelman, @Wunderlist
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:33 PM EST
    Aww love that you are bringing parents in to share about their traditions. That’s wonderful! #dojochat
    In reply to @arenaABC
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:34 PM EST
    A4: I’ve got an elf on the shelf (helps with December behavior 😱). My partner teacher does “Globe Trot Scott” during social studies to teach about holidays around the world #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:36 PM EST
  • arenaABC Dec 5 @ 7:37 PM EST
    It's really great! I've learned so much from the families and of course the kids love having their parent in the classroom. :) #dojochat
    In reply to @MissDunnigan_
  • mrmanlapid Dec 5 @ 7:38 PM EST
    A4: Pick a common theme for the holidays that many of your students celebrate. Try to avoid focusing on specific holidays. Many holidays are centered on renewal, gratitude, and hope. #dojochat
  • JennMBarnes Dec 5 @ 7:38 PM EST
    A3 Besides believing in the power of sticky-notes, I take photos & jot notes on my phone. When Ss share powerful info in our logs & charts, I jot their names beside it. I ask K's to take notes for me. Prob our best, most important lrng, comes from the kids themselves. #dojochat
    In reply to @Mrs2ndGradeWCS
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:38 PM EST
    A5: I still stick the curriculum, but I find ways to incorporate the holiday madness-like when teaching expository writing we write “How to build a snowman”. It’s all about #balance 😉 ☃️ #dojochat
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:38 PM EST
    A4: I don’t have my own classroom yet, but oneday when I do I hope that I can learn about my students’ cultures and incorporate them into my math problems! So far I use what I know about their social lives to engage them! #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:38 PM EST
    A5: I for sure will be diving into the excitement of the holiday season when I have my own classroom. I love this time of year! #dojochat
  • EmyDelgado15 Dec 5 @ 7:39 PM EST
    We dive right into it with gusto! You can't fight the BEST TIME of the year!😊🎄❤ #dojochat
  • ClassDojo - Moderator Dec 5 @ 7:39 PM EST
    Three cheers for GUSTO!! #dojochat
  • blackburn402 Dec 5 @ 7:39 PM EST
    I teach at an intermediate school in WV. The local high school students, including foreign exchange students, teach about Christmas Around the World. It’s an all day station event, and the kids love it! #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:40 PM EST
    A5 - I always loved this time of year in the classroom. You’re a few months in, starting to feel a bit more like family, so the holidays can really bring a class together :) #dojochat
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:41 PM EST
    A5: It’s been a weird season with being a full time student teacher and grad school so I haven’t been able to feel or get really into the holiday spirit. Next year will be different though! #dojochat
  • mrmanlapid Dec 5 @ 7:42 PM EST
    A5: Although I follow a structured direct instruction program for my unique learners classroom, I try to get them engaged in seasonal crafts and holiday-themed center activities. #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:42 PM EST
    Last one! #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:43 PM EST
    OOoo good question! A6 - I always got things ready before break. Wanted to soak in every second of my freedom!! Now I don’t have breaks…. blergh #dojochat
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:44 PM EST
    #A6 I really try to get things done ahead of time so that it is prepped. If I see something over break or think of it, I'll do it then so I don't forget. I don't like to save it because I want it to get done and know it was done so it's prepared ready to use #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:44 PM EST
    A6: I'm definitely the type to try to do things before break, if something doesn't get done before break then it's not getting looked at again until the day before break is over, sadly. A habit I will surely need to break! #dojochat
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:45 PM EST
    A6: I’m going to do my best to prepare for my next placement over break! Study and prepare any materials or activities I can! #dojochat
  • ms_calabro Dec 5 @ 7:46 PM EST
    Lots of great conversations happen during these #dojochat s! Y’all should check it out! I participate almost every week😊 #TWS_18
  • blackburn402 Dec 5 @ 7:47 PM EST
    A3 - I make lists on sticky notes and keep them on my MacBook. I also have a planner. I went paperless this year, so making online folders for all my Edocuments was essential. It’s so easy to locate what I need now, and it eliminated so much wasted space in my room. #dojochat
  • Mrs2ndGradeWCS Dec 5 @ 7:47 PM EST
  • mtartaro Dec 5 @ 7:48 PM EST
    A6 - I am usually chompin’ at the bit to return!! #dojochat
  • RachelRowland10 Dec 5 @ 7:49 PM EST
    Thanks for having me #dojochat I'm glad I joined tonight. Thank you for sharing such great ideas and tips!
  • blackburn402 Dec 5 @ 7:49 PM EST
    A6- I find it difficult to stop working. I will create most of my lesson plans before break, but I’ll continue to create new things over the break too. #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:49 PM EST
    Thanks so much for leading #dojochat this week @Mrs2ndGradeWCS :) Great questions!
  • mtartaro Dec 5 @ 7:49 PM EST
    A5 - Sive right in, babeee! #dojochat
  • MissDunnigan_ Dec 5 @ 7:50 PM EST
    Grateful that I finally got to participate in a chat and it was a #dojochat. Great to share my thoughts and read the thoughts of other educators. Definitely gained some great ideas that I could implement with my students!
  • mrmanlapid Dec 5 @ 7:50 PM EST
    A6: I try to get things done before break. It would be difficult to enjoy the holiday break if you have to worry about things that you need to do when you get back to school. #dojochat
  • mtartaro Dec 5 @ 7:51 PM EST
    A5 - Dive right in, babeeee! #dojochat
  • jenna_orourke Dec 5 @ 7:51 PM EST
    I hope everyone continues to join #dojochat and has a lovely holiday season!! ⛄❄️⛄❄️
  • mtartaro Dec 5 @ 7:52 PM EST
    A3 - I’m all ears! #dojochat
  • mtartaro Dec 5 @ 7:54 PM EST
    A2 - I try not to do it to often. Family time! #dojochat
  • mtartaro Dec 5 @ 7:55 PM EST
    A1 - The gym. #dojochat
  • lindsayhelman Dec 5 @ 7:59 PM EST
    A6: the week back to school will be planned, materials prepped, and ready to go. Over break I will do passion projects that I have put off. Basically creating resources that I want to use, exploring tech, and reading. #dojochat