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.
I share, encourage, and mentor other Ts by giving them the tools they need to take risks. All digital and STEAM challenges are shared. First, you have to establish trust. #bfc530
I would like to see less emphasis on standardized testing and better ways to assess learning. My Assessment page https://t.co/OEDdXI9tqz More #stuvoice listened to and give teachers more freedom to facilitate the learning students need to succeed for their future. #bfc530
My change is to eliminate homework. I'm still struggling with assigning classwork/activities in class that most complete, but it still becomes homework for those that don't. I want my students to have time to enjoy being a kid at home. Homework is like unpaid overtime. #bfc530
I think we are in the cusp of something great in Education ... teachers speaking out and saying enough and taking back our profession ... getting back to what is best for kids and not what is best for testing profiteers #bfc530
I would like to see an actual honoring of process over product. All of these giant products/presentations at the end of semesters make for shallow work concerned more with deadlines than learning. #bfc530
I’d like to see a more structured cell phone use in the M&HSs, they are novel to classrooms these past five years, causing all sorts of distractions when not being used for learning, any ideas? #BFC530 📱
A fundamental shift from our narrowly defined metrics of "success" to more authentic measures that better reflect how students can thrive in today's innovation economy. #bfc530
Hi #bfc530 - The change I'd like to see in education is a greater access to alternative options amongst all populations- not just urban, middle/upper-class. More self-directed and inquiry-based learning, more access to the outdoors, more arts; less one-size-fits-all
I would like to see education be better respected by our government, have public schools be fully funded, fix inequities, focus on genuine learning and not on standardization. Trust in the skills of the Ts and not programs #BFC530
Its an LMS System. So far I like it but we haven't been using it officially yet. We are just getting started. I tend to reserve my judgment on this like this. #BFC530
I'd like to see schools shift away from out of school punishments. They are kids. We need to find out what the real problems are that cause kids to act out. Oh and try and fix those. You know so kids can learn:)
#bfc530
I would like to see a shift in the creation of curriculum. I would like to see more teachers trusted to create and implement lesson that match their specific kids AND hit state standards. #BFC530
One stop learning ... being able to write to all classes at the same time ... ease of use. In google I actually have to open the class to reuse an assignment ... in Schoology I can do it from the assignment. You don’t think that is a big deal until you can’t do it #bfc530
I’ll go with my theme for the AM. I’d love for teachers to feel as though they can take risks and try new things and worry less about a score defining them. Hmmm, same for Ss too! #bfc530
Great question!
I would like the digital divide to close with stakeholders finding a way for personal tech to be meaningful and not a distraction.
Secondly, a return to reading for joy.
Modeling begins change.
#bfc530
I would like to see a shift in the creation of curriculum. I would like to see more teachers trusted to create and implement lesson that match their specific kids AND hit state standards. #BFC530
This is a great point. I debated w/someone the other day to define "student achievement". If a S becomes an accomplished violinist, is that not achievement? We need to broaden our idea of this concept #bfc530
A fundamental shift from our narrowly defined metrics of "success" to more authentic measures that better reflect how students can thrive in today's innovation economy. #bfc530
But also make colleges more affordable and less stressful & burdensome on our Ss ( see this petition please ) Economic Justice & Reform for Hessa Borrowers - Sign the Petition! https://t.co/5CBOnxBKUE via @Change#bfc530
A fundamental shift from our narrowly defined metrics of "success" to more authentic measures that better reflect how students can thrive in today's innovation economy. #bfc530
Good morning from southern Illinois! I'd love to see less emphasis on testing and more emphasis on a rich curriculum with a lot of opportunities student choice.#bfc530
We still have a lot of work to do to out positive the negative perceptions related to education. Our Ss and Ts have remarkable stories to tell that go beyond a test score, budget cuts, etc. We are global citizens and it’s time to shift the focus to what matters most. #bfc530
I'd like to see a lot of the rigid constructs/constraints change. It is becoming increasingly evident that students learn and exist differently than they used to. Personally, I support teachers in taking different approaches & work to change the environment. #bfc530
I hate suspensions that send a kid home... So they can sleep late & watch Netflix all day? Not much if a punishment.
Should have to come to school. Take different break times from friends. Maybe even do some work like painting walls, etc?
#bfc530
I'd like to see schools shift away from out of school punishments. They are kids. We need to find out what the real problems are that cause kids to act out. Oh and try and fix those. You know so kids can learn:)
#bfc530
#bfc530 Phil principal from MA. I’d like to see use support ALL students through a wide variety of interventions #rti#udl#growthmindset Thanks @casehighprinc get getting me up so early
In reply to
@BFC_530, @BrianHerb17, @casehighprinc
#bfc530 A. Make tech integration mandatory and penalize districts/schools that refuse. No longer acceptable that WHO you get and WHERE you go determines what you get.
B. Continue to work both as a consultant and volunteer to train teachers in simple techniques that work in class
This has been my soapbox for years. I have a masters, my partner has high school — he has a successful trade business and is one of the smartest people I know. #bfc530
#bfc530 Phil principal from MA. I’d like to see use support ALL students through a wide variety of interventions #rti#udl#growthmindset Thanks @casehighprinc get getting me up so early
In reply to
@BFC_530, @BrianHerb17, @casehighprinc
Indeed! While there will always be a baseline of fundamental literacy, we need to be more attentive to the individual needs and desires of students and help them nurture skills consistent with that desire vs one-size-fits-all metrics. #bfc530
Good morning #bfc530 —have you even fallen asleep while grading and left a random line of ink on a student’s paper? This is the digital equivalent (or should I say “substitution”). Literally crashed mid-sentence.
I would also like to see us focus more attention on ESOL Education. In my building we are 32% ESOL and our teachers are so amazing but more resources would be helpful. #BFC530
I agree ... and disagree. I am torn ... I don’t want to see kids get the vacation but at the same time when one kid can wreak havoc on the learning process of everybody else in the class how is that fair to the students? #bfc530
I'd like to see schools shift away from out of school punishments. They are kids. We need to find out what the real problems are that cause kids to act out. Oh and try and fix those. You know so kids can learn:)
#bfc530
I would like to see more schools with markerspaces - hands on learning, creative problem solving, opportunities to make mistakes and learn from them! I've helped set one up in my old school and am encouraging them in my kids' schools. #bfc530
I have small requests like no bells ringing every few minutes to big requests like ditching standardized tests, and I have 100 requests in between #bfc530
I see both sides of this argument. As an admin, we do everything we can to keep them in school, but I am also responsible for the safety of 1500 other students and 135 staff. It can b a tough balancing act at times #bfc530
I hate suspensions that send a kid home... So they can sleep late & watch Netflix all day? Not much if a punishment.
Should have to come to school. Take different break times from friends. Maybe even do some work like painting walls, etc?
#bfc530
I'd like to see schools shift away from out of school punishments. They are kids. We need to find out what the real problems are that cause kids to act out. Oh and try and fix those. You know so kids can learn:)
#bfc530
Plus many college degrees are just a hoop to jump through. My nieces all work in areas that have nothing to do with their degrees but wouldn't have been hired without them #bfc530
I agree ... and disagree. I am torn ... I don’t want to see kids get the vacation but at the same time when one kid can wreak havoc on the learning process of everybody else in the class how is that fair to the students? #bfc530
In 5 yrs I would love to see us having ended stopping lrning by putting a final % on work. Personally I am playing all kinds of games w/in system and am part of PLC trying to find ways to work towards showing mastery rather than compliance, w/in district rquirments #bfc530
I'm always reassured that at the very least, I can align what's in our classroom with what's in my heart- ensure that Ss are given every opportunity to demonstrate their learning, that they are not defined by grades/levels, and that they are valued. #bfc530
While I love this idea that tech should not be an option, especially if it's teacher choice, we need to keep in mind that not all districts have the financial resources necessary to make this a reality. #BFC530
I'd like to see a real solution to those students that miss 10 days a quarter, but have a doctor's excuse. I'm not blaming kids if they are sick, but they become high risk students fast. #bfc530
#bfc530 Good Morning!
I left public ed, now principal at a Catholic HS. A lot because high stakes testing and unfunded fed/state mandates are ruining school and T mindset. I want to see more critical thinking, creativity, entrepreneurship in every classroom!
I wish I knew the answer, Brian. How can we advocate for more funding & smaller class sizes? Are we as educators too exhausted to take on that fight because we are so overworked already? I know I’m drained at the end of each week. #bfc530
I agree, it's unfair to others, but restorative practices as opposed to punitive ones help Ss reflect and build strategies for life. Ss are expected to make mistakes and test limits. Especially since there is such a disparity of punishment in subgroups #BFC530
Yes! Always around report card time when I am grumbling about assigning % grades to 6-7 year olds, my husband chants "Start the revolution! Start the revolution!" I would love to hear more about the work you're doing! #bfc530
I was specifically thinking about staffing. We have an incredibly strong ESOL Dept. I would like to see more school translators and social workers that can help when needed. Also, more co-taught classes with Gen Ed and ESOL Teachers. #BFC530
My daughter's school had only female teachers and only male admin. She came to my school, saw my female principal and was shocked and asked me " women can be bosses?" Schools need to understand the unintentional messages they send to young children #bfc530
I agree. No need for a dedicated space. Although it helps to have an established space when encouraging other teachers to get involved, working on projects long-term, putting stuff out for students to see and get interested in. #bfc530
I’d like to see a more diverse teaching force & a greater diversity of classroom/teaching practice to suit the many kinds of Ss in schools. I’ve been talking to Ss of all backgrounds re becoming a T & will continue to run PLT grps for Ts to finetune teaching practice #bfc530
I agree, it's unfair to others, but restorative practices as opposed to punitive ones help Ss reflect and build strategies for life. Ss are expected to make mistakes and test limits. Especially since there is such a disparity of punishment in subgroups #BFC530
Good morning! I would ❤️ to see less emphasis on standardization, and more #udl, more Ss collaboration & embedded social emotional learning time brought back into the classroom, respect for #steam and more opportunities for #tlap, T’s paid what they are worth! #BFC530
Great chat this am! ...but here's the deal: None of these changes will occur without us. We have to get out of our respective comfort zone and model, advocate for, and insist on a new way of teaching and learning for our students. Starts today. #bfc530
I would love to see letter grades fade into the sunset so that we can shift our feedback to focus on progress and growth rather than competition and transcripts. #BFC530
I would like to see a time when equity in education is truly achieved. I’m not sure this can be done in five years but it’s what we need to work towards every day if we are going to be a successful country. This means breaking down barriers and making systemic changes. #BFC530
AOTD things I want to see gone in next 5 yrs: online gradebook, grading on “average” rather than meeting standards, only reading whole class novels, the 5 paragraph essay, submitting 2 printed copies of research papers. Is it odd all of my answers are parent perspective? #bfc530
I get that ... totally agree ... but what about the rights of the other 23 kids in the class. Just about every student can name a peer that when they are absent the school day is just better because they are not there disrupting. #bfc530
Ugh!! We have this week and next. Since our 5th graders test more days than we do, our schedules have been changed, specials have been shortened, and there will be no outside recess. Poor kids AND teachers! #bfc530
That's a good point ! Here we are all focused on the kids needs as we should, but forgetting our own. I'd like time for a bathroom break and not be counting the days until payday so I can eat things besides ramen noodles ( 5 days). #bfc530
B~ continuous involved as teacher-leader in curriculum roles, positions, family outreach initiatives like home visits, family engagement evening activities, be the supervising teacher for aspiring student interns, model involvement for others to emulate 😊
I agree - we are following standards to make them "college and career ready." What career? The ones we deem of value? Or a career they might actually want to pursue? (Arts, Vocation, etc). Makes me sad. #bfc530
This is a great point. I debated w/someone the other day to define "student achievement". If a S becomes an accomplished violinist, is that not achievement? We need to broaden our idea of this concept #bfc530
A fundamental shift from our narrowly defined metrics of "success" to more authentic measures that better reflect how students can thrive in today's innovation economy. #bfc530
Oh, we all have them. But especially for my special ed students, they still have a right to an education... and punishment will quickly take that right away. There must be balance. And there are so many more alternatives now..#BFC530
You're right. Not easy. I do like this approach to problem or change though - considering what I can personally do to help make it happen. Funding is a tough one to solve as individuals. Although teachers in WV and OK are very involved. #bfc530
I get that ... totally agree ... but what about the rights of the other 23 kids in the class. Just about every student can name a peer that when they are absent the school day is just better because they are not there disrupting. #bfc530
The other thing we do s have them do something helpful on the day. Even if it's helping with some of the school charity work so they feel they are giving back #bfc530
The other thing we do s have them do something helpful on the day. Even if it's helping with some of the school charity work so they feel they are giving back #bfc530
I agree that suspensions out of school don’t always work but I struggle w/ solutions like painting walls or sitting in the class of another grade. IMO, these actions shame the S into compliance; keep them in school & engage them in restorative activities #bfc530
I would like to see smaller class sizes and instructional coaches for struggling Ss and struggling Ts. There are to many older Ts, lost with technology and transient Ss, lost with gaps in learning. Lift them up! #bfc530
Agreed - so much happens within a classroom during the course of a period. Missing school means missing all of those things that you don't find on a lesson plan. Not as easy as "send the work home". #bf530
Amen to that !! My brother went to summer school many years, and now is an accomplished musician ( currently trying out for the MET) with a PHD in music. We learn abt multiple intelligences but still don't value them. #bfc530
I see the work ones being less about shame (don't need to be done in front of others) and more bait making a positive contribution to the school. Rather than simply being removed from it. #bfc530
Yes! And we need systems that support that change - otherwise we are putting square pegs in a round hole. I'm doing that with my district's system. It's not easy, and not really working as it should. #bfc530
W/mandatory # summ & Form. grades, I was struggling-and like across team rqrments for testing and grades made my ideas rejected. Strting with dividing each summative by standard and weighting, so P and S can see probs. Naming % by stdrd. Mvng twrds more conf & S decision-mking
Our district goes w/the min requirements - yay for us 3 days of testing only 👏👏👏 Each grade tests in one week, so our week is this week. Testing Weds, Thurs, Fri am. 7th next week, then 8th. It makes for minimal adjustments (not counting changing my room entirely!) #bfc530
In reply to
@RobinKRyan, @DennisDill, @MrTravisDrake
I am late to the conversation but my big personal concern is dyslexia. There are proven methods to help these students out that are not being used. #bfc530
Its not right at all. I spent most of the beginning years teaching sleeping on a floor with roommates because I couldn't afford a bed. I still haven't made it past a twin! But we still get paid so much better than countless other states, i don't know how they do it #bfc530
I agree! My division has done a lot over the last two years to raise awareness and help identify students who need support. #bfc530https://t.co/X4ZJ2AnIvp
#bfc530 I would love to see the teaching profession get the respect it deserves and be elevated to a higher level! So that the best and brightest want to teacher!
Yes, that’s really what I’m getting at; making sure the suspension is appropriate & relevant to the Ss growth as well as equitable to their current life circumstance.And also about the safety of the rest of the school. It’s complicated but positive solutions are possible #bfc530
Great chat this am! ...but here's the deal: None of these changes will occur without us. We have to get out of our respective comfort zone and model, advocate for, and insist on a new way of teaching and learning for our students. Starts today. #bfc530
And for that focus to be on how the past has led to where we are today so that kids see the relevancy and how they can make an impact on the system. Social and political activism by young people is so needed right now. #bfc530
This is an example of a restorative piece I was referring to earlier. I try to ask suspended Ss: “how do you want to make this right?” Working w/ a charity or making a contribution to the comm’y is a great way to do this #bfc530
Thanks for a great chat this morning #bfc530 Awesome ideas for improving our schools! As you finish out the school year and make plans for the next, decide what you will do to bring about change.
I teach at school w/ vocational programs-it’s rigorous, very hard to do college prep and career-tech at same time and be competitive for college admin. It’s not like you can add few automotive classes and be ready for career, it’s intense. But more CTE schools needed! #bfc530
In reply to
@carlameyrink, @mrfieldmanchs, @LibrarianStacy
I agree. Fresh air, sunshine, and learning go together. What can I do? I can adjust my plans to use our outdoor classroom more often when weather allows. #bfc530
Co teaching cross curriculum. I’d love to teach matrix coding along with the book The Unseen World @LizMooreBooks with an English teacher. Coteach physics. Get in with sociology to talk about statistics. Health class to go in depth with caloric intake and BMI calculation. #bfc530
In reply to
@BFC_530, @BrianHerb17, @LizMooreBooks
I prefer ISS to OSS, but my students (special ed) cannot lose a day of instruction and need more support than a quiet room to get work done. In addition, they need emotional support to work on what got them in there in the first place #BFC530
In a safety check - after the Parkland shooting - our school was found to have "too many windows." And yet many of them are really small. :( @MrEandre#bfc530
How about OCI - on-campus intervention that is staffed with certified educators each period so that students still receive regular classroom instruction and receive time to reflect on actions? #bfc530
I prefer ISS to OSS, but my students (special ed) cannot lose a day of instruction and need more support than a quiet room to get work done. In addition, they need emotional support to work on what got them in there in the first place #BFC530
They have teachers for each subject? We can barely find subs that can cover math (especially), but I love the reflection component. Is this guided? Is there a structured process for the reflection? #BFC530
I read the whole thread before I liked. While I agree that tech is important, I don't like the idea of punishing schools/divisions that aren't fully integrated. How would you penalize them? Take funding away? Impose oversight? Tech use shouldn't come from arm twisting. #bfc530
Low usage may not be by choice. Lack of funding for hardware? Difficulties implementing PD? Teacher overload? Network infrastructure? Lots of reasons why tech might not be available or might sit idle. I would think support rather than a penalty would be more effective. #bfc530
In reply to
@jxjarvix, @wheeler_laura, @BFC_530, @iruntech
Great chat this am! ...but here's the deal: None of these changes will occur without us. We have to get out of our respective comfort zone and model, advocate for, and insist on a new way of teaching and learning for our students. Starts today. #bfc530
A reason we never bring about real change is b/c of what Harvard Graduate School of Education professors Robert Kegan & Lisa Laskow Lahey call our Immunity to Change. The link takes you to a good summary of it. #bfc530@hgsehttps://t.co/ijw4sjEwiY
Couldn't agree more! We need all stakeholders - especially students - to be involved. We just can't fall into the trap of assuming someone else will initiate the change for us (i.e. wait for superman). It starts with me. #bfc530
