This is the official Twitter account for #OklaEd, thehashtag that brings OK educators together. #OklaEd is not political & promotes constructive dialogue.
"With social and academic pressure mounting, a teacher shares what he’s learned about tracking his students’ mental well-being." #oklaedhttps://t.co/Af4KZXWAW9
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
Debbie Thoreson, P of a 3rd grade girl, T of English 3 & AP, Dewey High School #oklaed
Happy to see the Teacher of the Year ceremony Tuesday. Congratulations to all the top 12 & esp. the new TOY!
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
A1: A positive school culture means that every student feels welcome and has a place where they fit at school. This is important because students and teachers need authentic relationships to foster learning that is impactful. #oklaed
A1 - It mean being on board with what is going on in the school and district. Supporting my colleagues and my leadership and speaking respectfully of them. #oklaed#MDubLearns
A1 - It means being on board with what is going on in the school and district. Supporting my colleagues and my leadership and speaking respectfully of them. #oklaed#MDubLearns
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
A1 it’s complex, but it boils down to having an environment focused on teaching and learning where everyone from the principal to the youngest student, the parents, and the community are happy to be there and engaged in the work of education. #oklaed
A1: cultivating an atmosphere that is positive and a place people want to be - students, teachers, families, AND community members. It’s important because people don’t work in places they don’t want to be..
#oklaed
A1 #oklaed A school where every student feels safe to be who they truly are; every teacher feels free to teach students and content, rather than test prep; every parent feels welcome and has a place to contribute to making people better every single day. #MDPurpose
A1: It means being there for your students even when they do not want you there. It means a simple smile, a simple greeting, and a simple acknowledgement! Without a positive culture, learning goes out the window. #oklaed
A2: #oklaed A positive school culture means that EVERY student feels important to someone. It means that every student has someone to work for and strive to do their best. Also, it provides a comfortable safe place.
#oklaed A1 Having a clear vision, similar philosophy, common goals. Means we are all moving in the same direction to increase student learning and achievement.
A1) An environment where folks (Ss & Ts) want to be & work together to do great things. It is EVERYTHING & without it...you get pretty much nothing #oklaed
A1 Starts w/ me. 1) Doing my job w/ respect & integrity. 2) Saying good morn/afternoon; eye contact; active listening. 3) Referring to peers using titles & speaking only positively of them. 4) Giving my Ts what they need to do their job. Why? W/out it, kids can't succeed #oklaed
A1: It means making school a place everyone looks forward to gathering. It's important to me because I want to reduce the amount of cheating I see, and happy, engaged, curious, inspired people don't cheat. #oklaed
A1 part two. That DOES NOT mean that it’s all work, all the time. You have to have some play time, some time creating community, and some time for the kids to plug in to their own interests. #oklaed
A1) A positive school climate correlates with success. Building positive relationships within a classroom will shine throughout the whole school. #oklaed
A1 - It’s about creating an environment where people value every student, believe every student is capable of learning at a high level, and has high expectations for all. It’s important because we cannot let any kid fall through the cracks. #oklaed
A1: Creating positive school culture means u are being intentional about making the environment where all Ss soar not just make it. It is important because it determines the success of a Ss #oklaed
A1 Creating a safe place for students to build relationships, grow, and learn is important for student success today and allows Ss to practice social skills such as empathy..that wil influence their future. #oklaed
#oklaed A1: A positive school culture means that teachers can be innovative, creative, and take risks, and students will want to come to school because the classes are so entertaining.
A1) It means everyone is striving for excellence in every facet and no one feels left out. It’s important because it makes work fun and is the only way to build relationships with workers and students. #OKlaed
A1: Creating a positive school culture means creating a place where people want to be—kids, teachers, community members, etc. It is important because real, meaningful learning only happens when Ss have a reason to be there and a reason to learn. #oklaEd
A1: Creating a positive school climate means *all* parties are involved-Ts, Ss, Ps. School climate goes a long way toward students feeling wanted and respected and teachers being supported. #oklaed
A1: it means everything!! If S’s &T’s feel safe at their school to learn, struggle, and grow, then they’ll want to be more engaged in learning, prepared to be challenged, and more confident to bring others along. #oklaED
A1 part two. That DOES NOT mean that it’s all work, all the time. You have to have some play time, some time creating community, and some time for the kids to plug in to their own interests. #oklaed
A1. Positive Culture is integral in keeping up morale and keeping the drive alive to learn. Students have to learn from us that life is great despite the daily setbacks. They will not love what you teach if they know you do not love your job. #oklaed
Q2a: To build a positive culture with students I foster the library as an engaging space where they are able to be creative. This means allowing a space for them to create and discuss and for me to build relationships with them. #oklaed
A2: Try to keep an open mind and respect and embrace change. The admin does NOT change things to make a Ts life worse... there are usually hidden facts we may not be aware of that warranted the change. RELAX, go with it and be supportive. #oklaed
A2 - I engage my Ss and other Ts in conversations to build connections and relationships with them. An opportunity for improvement would be fro me to not be so intensely focused all the time and relax more. #MDubLearns#oklaed
A-1 Schools should always be positive places if learning and sharing. Kids have enough negative energy in their lives. Learning doesn't take place easily in a negative place. #oklaed
A1) A positive school culture creates an environment where everyone feels welcome and the atmosphere is more + than -. The focus is on what is done well and improvement on the weak areas instead of a focus on the negatives. #oklaed
A2- I try to always treat every student with love and respect. A positive area for me is building relationships. An area to work on-what came to mind immediately was greeting students at the door everyday. It's been my goal so long, but I always get busy 😑. #oklaed
A2) It starts Day 1. We do this together (my Ss, fellow Ts, Admin too). Excitement is contagious. Be what you want to see!
I need to be better about limits. Working on this during this term. #oklaed
A2: as Supt. I try to give everyone a voice. Lots of advisory committees including students as encouragement to tell the positive stories of our schools. #oklaed
A1. For me it’s as straightforward and setting a tone of positivity. I’m all for a safe school culture and a kind culture and a warm culture, but I think priority one is to consider the positive possibilities instead of getting wrapped up in the “yes, but”s. #oklaed
Q2b: As a Teacher-Librarian I am sure to align my goals for an effective school library program with the goals that administrators have for the school. I also seek their input on how I can best partner with them to help students and teachers. #oklaed
#oklaed A2: I greet students with a "Good Morning," and I relate the curriculum to their interests, career choices, and talents of my students. I need to improve more with the Admin and Community.
A1: I forgot to add it means a LOT of hard work. It means you are doing a lot of things even when you don’t feel like it. Forgot to add my realness to the answer pool #oklaed
I try to listen to and not speaker at educators. But from a legislative perspective creating a culture that values education is the way to bring and keep more teachers into the profession which would help lower class sizes. And then we could all succeed together. #oklaed
A2: I try to encourage communication with my fellow T's and really connect with my Ss. I tend to speak my mind though and sometimes it comes off as "intense" #oklaed
A2: Bring in the positive energy! When it comes to promoting positivity, we not only have to show it, but we must live it. Passion and positivity go hand in hand. One area I need to improve: Not let sickness wear me down. #oklaed
A1 I foster a positive school culture by working towards designing lessons based on student interests/choices and what they need to grow as reader and writers. #oklaED
This is why I love you and sometimes considering coming to your district. Test prep is not our goal. Productive, loving and active citizens is what we need! #oklaed
A1 #oklaed A school where every student feels safe to be who they truly are; every teacher feels free to teach students and content, rather than test prep; every parent feels welcome and has a place to contribute to making people better every single day. #MDPurpose
A2) Students / Positive comments, fair discipline, watching their extra curricular activities. Admin / I try to be the best employee possible. I send positive notes. Colleagues / Get-togethers. Community/ being involved in it. #oklaed
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
Q2C: For me to do my job effectively I need to have great relationships with teachers. At times this is difficult, because while my primary role is still that of a teacher, I also facilitate a program that impacts the entire school. #oklaed
A1: School culture starts in the classroom because everything we do extends beyond our four walls - It is about creating community the best create this with intangibles that can’t be replicated because: It’s a VIBE 🔥#oklaed
A2 the smartest/most fun way is I get out of my classroom. I go to things—band concerts, baseball games, musical performances—that my kids participate in. I talk to parents there and can visit with the kid later about how well they did. Spending my time shows I care. #oklaed
A1 #oklaed A school where every student feels safe to be who they truly are; every teacher feels free to teach students and content, rather than test prep; every parent feels welcome and has a place to contribute to making people better every single day. #MDPurpose
Good evening, friends! Welcome to the #oklaed chat. Tonight's topic is Creating a positive school culture. Please start out with introductions and don't forget the #oklaed :)
A2. In theory I want to avoid negativity and encourage positive conversation. (Harder in practice) That especially includes positive self-talk among students. When one says, “I’m so dumb!” I answer with, “No one talks about my students that way!” #oklaed
A3: Poor professionalism in the school culture. A lack of passion and creativity. A lack of good rapport with the student body. Every student should be treated with dignity even if they are not in your classes. #oklaed
A2: I commit to being fair and to encouraging Ss to help decide parts of the curriculum. I also run a Secret Pal game among the Ts, which gives us little pick-me-ups throughout the year and helps us learn about each other. #oklaed
A2: When I say it out loud, it seems sad, but my daily goal is to speak to all 130 Ss every day. I can't meet my goal every day, but I will continue to try. I make sure my Ss know that when they are not in class, they are missed. I encourage my S to do their best daily. #oklaed
A2) New to the bldg as admin, Ss are allowed to create special interest clubs to build school connectedness. I need to be learning Ss names more quickly...it's difficult to do when you aren't from the community. I'll get there though. #oklaed
A2: I foster a positive relationship with my Ss & Ps by sending letters before school that include a way for them to share with me about themselves. I need to get better at positive calls home. I post in the class Facebook group, but don’t do enough individual praise. #oklaEd
A2: I greet students and staff in the morning daily. “Welcome Back Mr. So and so”, Good morning Ms. So and so.” We are all professionals so I treat my students as such. I need to improve on monitoring this and measure its effectiveness. #OklaEd
#oklaed A3: If we only focus on the athletes and the college bound Ss, then yes, some students will feel this way. Students need to be shown different paths that they can take and make a plan. Some students may not go to college, but they can learn a skill that gets them a job.
A3: Building a school culture of trust and respect takes time. Opportunities narrow with high student mobility and/or school leadership turnover. #oklaed
A2 They have to know you really care about them and their learning. Often these are students who haven't heard very many good things about themselves. I make a big deal about their success and improvements. #oklaed
A3- I think negative interactions just tend to linger in the mind more. A student has a positive interaction second hour, but then has two negative interactions before heading home. What are they more likely to remember? #oklaed
A3 - Not feeling safe. Not feeling accepted and wanted. Disengaged Ts that might not want to be there. A lack of student choice and voice. #oklaed#MDubLearns
A3: When students isolate themselves and don't join in, I think they find school less engaging. Lets face it, it's those outside activities that we remember, the people and the fun...not so much the academics #oklaed
A3) Zero tolerance and punitive discipline instead of a positive growth mindset in discipline makes Ss feel targeted. The "I've taught it, they need to learn it" mindset also shuts Ss down. #oklaed
A3: Students see things that we don't see. They are able to see intrapersonal dynamics at play away from adults. They are able to see how teachers treat students at all times. While we can address the visible, they can evaluate the unseen. #oklaed
A2. Fostering a positive Culture with teachers and students comes naturally when one is naturally positive. A person cannot fake that. It is, however, a challenge to find time to get that vibe to the community. I must find time and improve this. #oklaed
A3 #oklaed I can't predict what they'd say, but I'd ask them. They only get one chance to come through school, and we have to connect with them individually to find out how to help them like school. #MDPurpose
A1: creating a positive school culture is a great way to build relationships and let Ss know we care! Schools are then in a better position to incorporate prevention programs that promote healthy life skills. In order to see behavior change we must see SW culture change. #oklaed
A1) No one feels like they’re in it alone...from students, to teachers, to custodial staff. No matter what age or position, when people feel like they are part of a team or doing something with purpose, they work harder to make positive progress. #oklaed
A3 - I think they feel this way in schools that 1)treat them like test data only 2) don’t understand trauma/life circumstances 3) don’t value their culture 4) don’t have Ts who advocate for them #oklaed
A3 we are not as student-centered as we need to be...especially with 35+ students in a classroom, this is hard...but I also don’t think we’re keeping up with the rapidly evolving needs our kids have. #oklaed
A3: My own children hate inconsistency and unfairness in a classroom. They have only experienced little pockets of it but it makes them lose respect. #oklaed
A2: I put students first. They matter to me not just as students but people. They have a voice and I try to amplify it in as many ways as possible. I try to keep my core principles and values at the forefront of what I get involved in - in and out of school. #oklaed
A3: Ss need positive reinforcement with ALL successes and not just A’s. Effort and growth = SUCCESS. No matter how old you get, everyone likes to be celebrated for their success. We are their cheerleaders! #oklaed
A3b #oklaed Considering what many of our students have going on at home, we should work relentlessly to ensure that school is a place they want to be. #MDPurpose
Honestly, I am struggling with colleagues this year. They are very nice, but jumping into a new building/district has been hard. Any tips for a newbie? #oklaED
Hey Friends! Kristin Atchley, OSDE Counseling! Sorry to be missing the fun. Learn a lot and be brave this week. Slip in some self-care, too. ✌🏼😘 #oklaed
A3: Ss recognize when Ts are there to make a difference or when they're there to make a paycheck. Every unengaged T leads to negativity. But some of the Ss are used to impatience, so they get upset if anyone has a process that takes time. #oklaed
Q3: It means that we aren't perfect and need to continue to work to create a positive culture every single day to do the best of our ability. We also have to remember that some S choose to not be positive, which adds to the difficulty in creating a positive atmosphere. #oklaed
Such a great point. I think we need to do define cheating. I tell my Ss when you r learning it is nothing wrong w/ copying as long as you copy off the right cat. However, cheating is when you r supposed to show what u know & show some else’s knowledge. #oklaed
A2) I was told a district recently felt they had to write a letter of apology to a sitting Senator for the way he was treated by faculty and staff when he visited. That should never happen. Even if you don’t agree, you must be civil and respectful. #oklaed
A4 - I am blessed to teach in a district where Admin values growth and authentic learning over high stakes testing. So I have support to do what is best for the Ss. #oklaed#MDubLearns
A4: I teach AP so the test is always on our mind, but we are in this together. We learn together, we fail together, we succeed and laugh and carry on together. If we aren't having fun, then why do we bother? #oklaed
A4: I stressed how test scores do not define my students; they are more than just a number. I stress how they have talents that stretch beyond what test scores measure. Why??? It's true! #oklaed
A4) Take every opportunity offered. Model how one responsibly processes. Have those critical conversations. Don’t ignore because it might get emotional - be real. #oklaed
A3) I believe Ss recognize disrespect with each other and Ts. Ss disrespect each other, and it causes tension. Ss don’t enjoy seeing other students being disrespectful. #oklaed
A4: At the High School, we have a relatively new campaign of school citizenship. Students are very publically rewarded for acting with integrity, kindness, etc. #oklaed
A4 - I focus so little on the test. I tell them from the beginning I hope they pass the test, BUT more than anything I want them to be better humans. We do so many activities with a purpose of developing empathy & learning new perspectives. That’s far more important. #oklaed
A4) Social/emotional skills have to be taught in every teachable moment consistently. When we listen to our Ss we can identify the areas they need support. Admin can provide support through PD opps, modeling, continual reminders on specific issues. #oklaed#ittakesavillage
A3 Make sure each student has an equal chance to answer and equal number of questions. Always play fair because they always notice if you don't. #oklaed
A4: teaching and modeling resilience is important for me. I share that with my T’s and S’s daily. Setting goals, enjoying the journey, and living positively through the struggle. #oklaed
A4: Expecting and requiring Ss to follow district policies while allowing reasonable accommodations helps them become socially ready for the "real" world. #oklaed
Q3 People tend to believe what they hear whether it’s positive or negative. If students hear constant put-downs about their school they will often join the negativity. #oklaED
A4: actively choose to just not care about the testing.....🙊 don’t emphasize it to my kids. Just give them what they need, be there for them, build relationships, & differentiate learning. #oklaed
A4 #oklaed We've made it clear that while we want strong academics, tests aren't the only things we're measuring. And that there are some things in schools you just can't measure at all. #MDPurpose
#oklaed A4: My classes are not test-driven; they are student-driven, which means I focus on each student. What do they know? What do they need to learn? What do they want to do? How can I help them?
The nice thing about the AP tests is that they do an excellent job of showcasing what Ss are supposed to be learning. It's the one time teaching to the test is actually just teaching! #oklaed
A4: I teach AP so the test is always on our mind, but we are in this together. We learn together, we fail together, we succeed and laugh and carry on together. If we aren't having fun, then why do we bother? #oklaed
A4: I spend the 5 minutes between classes working on my student's positive attitude. I watch facial expressions and attitudes at my classroom door and deal with as many issues as possible before class begins. #oklaed
A4: I try to always model positive behaviors and reactions by keeping in mind that little eyes and ears are absorbing my vibes. We must educate the heart and mind before we add content. #oklaed
A4. I actually think testing is important because it shows us where the students strengths and weaknesses are, but not with the pressure we put on kids. I just tell them to do their best and that is what matters. After we get the results, we can see where we can improve. #oklaed
A3: I think there is too much pressure to get through standards, so teachers push Ss faster than they are ready for. To do this, though, often there is a culture of compliance. Ss aren’t really engaged, but they’re quiet and get their work done. #oklaEd
A4 Social and Emotional Skills...Positive Environmen...Are Foundational To Learning! Kids need to feel safe to learn and grow...they need to know they’re more than a test score! #oklaed
A3: Relationships need to be FIRST. We have to authentically create relationships with students. Ask kids who their fav teacher is and listen.
They don’t say “Mr/Ms. ___ because I love Math”
They say - Mr/Ms. ___ because she cares about me. #oklaed
Hey #oklaed I was talking to somebody who is running for a public office mainly on your behalf but can’t get any of you to volunteer to help knock on doors. If you really want change these folks who are running need your help to help you!!
A4 #oklaed We've made it clear that while we want strong academics, tests aren't the only things we're measuring. And that there are some things in schools you just can't measure at all. #MDPurpose
A4 I teach AP, but I’m always bringing up how different historical figures acted to talk about leadership or teamwork or something like that. It doesn’t have to be a separate curriculum. You interweave it into what you do every day. #oklaed
#oklaed we must model positive responses. I need to work on my facial reactions when the overhead speaker interrupts my teaching. My face tells it’s all. My students needs to see me handle that interruption positively.
One way I’m going to celebrate it is by telling all the educators and administrators that are on tonight spending their very little free time sharing with each other, Thank you!!! #oklaed
A5: I try to always thank my Admin when I have a notable success (in and out of the classroom)!! The #cpsreds admin is extremely supportive of continued PD and without their support I would NOT ever have a chance for success. #oklaed
So true! You have to feel like you have a place. As adults we have forgotten that we have to provide that opportunity for them. Its not all about just teaching our subject. #oklaed
A5: I tell my Admin all the time how wonderful I think they are. Even when I'm expressing my "feelings" they are wonderful about listening and reminding me that all will be well. I'm VERY lucky! #oklaed
A5: I think this question is HUGE for school culture! Celebrating our peers inadvertently reflects how Ss should celebrate each other. Teachers modeling those positive relationships with all stakeholders shows a universal respect. #oklaed
A2) Visibility/engagement. 1 goal of mine is to cont to strive to take the time to do things right, which means not giving in to the typical pressure on a new admin to multitask/give answers quickly. No matter who I’m with (S/T/Comm member), I’m listening and engaged. #oklaED
A4 Social and Emotional Skills...Positive Environment...Are Foundational To Learning! Kids need to feel safe to learn and grow...they need to know they’re more than a test score! #oklaed
A5) I try to compliment him on his ideas and successes. I support his ideals, and he knows he can depend on me. I also send notes to the supt and assistant supt letting them know how their leadership is appreciated. #oklaed
A3: We have to build relationships before any learning can occur. A major factor is probably bullying. If you have a relationship with your students, they are more apt to be honest about what is happening at school. #oklaed
A4: Principals and teachers can help students shift from test cramming to continuous learning that builds week by week and month by month. Recognizing progress as it develops instills confidence and fortifies hope within students. #oklaed
A4: Its apart of my assessment. I let them know I teach all of them not just some of them. We also do team builders regularly to support them learning these skills. #oklaed
A5) I send out a weekly memo with shout-outs. I try to remember to let Ts/staff know they are appreciated in writing and in person as often as possible. Recognize great teaching and mention it to others. Know what is going on in their lives. #oklaed
A4: I’m reading to my Ss every day! Reading is a great way to sneak in #sel learning, and skills learned through studying authentic texts are much stronger, so I tie in reading lessons with my read alouds as well. It is our favorite part of the day! #oklaEd
#oklaed Q5 As Admin I give positive notes about specific things I see. Each week in the newsletter we have “Sonic Winners” highlighting staff’s best practices, kind acts, etc.
A5 yeah...I don’t do a great job with this, at least not consistently. The admin I interact with most, I do try to show appreciation—but less so with the rest of our admin. Definitely a place for improvement! #oklaed
I have a special education teacher new to our system that is excellent! Charla Clements and my high school principal Mrs Johnson and her assistant Coach Austin are amazing #oklaed
A6) Have you met @bbtrackjonesy ?!? And now she’s an Admin!!!! Folks, you can’t have her, she’s ours!!! Seriously, it’s tough to lose her in the SS Dept, but she’s going to be #awesomesauce#OklaEd
A4: I let students know I value mastery/growth mindset vs. “good test taking,” in a variety of ways. It’s more work for me but I like options they need them. #oklaed
A6: A former coteacher of mine, who sadly isn't on Twitter. Even on the roughest of days, I knew I could make it because we were together. She got me through so much! I miss working with her! #oklaed
A4. Embrace that test. Our amazing Oklahoma teachers can take a mundane lesson and make it a rock concert. Stay positive about testing and slide it in the lessons so smoothly they never know it. #oklaed
A6 - Really this could go to all of #oklaed here but the first name that came to mind was @TeachFromHere. I love how he is always looking to help grow the teaching profession in a positive way. #oklaed
A4: I don’t focus on the test whatsoever. I teach 3rd. Yes, they know they will be taking it. My whole classroom is structured for building relationships and we do that often with group projects. #oklaed
A5 I tell them either in person, through email, or text my appreciation for something well done. This especially true when it affects the morale of other faculty members. Happy people are more productive. #oklaed
A6: I have so many that fit this bill. My pick for tonight is @neelycaitlynn because she is the best science teacher ever...my own children said so. When I get to visit with her, my heart is happy. ❤️. #oklaed
A6c #oklaed I won't call out any specific teacher or administrator in Mid-Del, because I would leave some out. Just know that many of you keep my phone buzzing with the positive happening in your universe and remind me in my darkest times that the work is worth it. #MDPurpose
I would say the same thing. Only I would change it to @angmlittle and @joy4ok you both are always encouraging, upbeat and driven!!! Great inspiration. #oklaed
In reply to
@angmlittle, @joy4ok, @angmlittle, @joy4ok
A3: When Ss see Ts care more about class rules/procedures than learning and relationships. Lately I’ve been reevaluating my class rules/procedures and asking myself why they exists. Do they have purpose or is it just about control? 🤔#oklaed
A6 our first and ONLY receptionist, Donna Blackwell, is one of my favorite people at Westmoore...she’s just a happy person (who also makes the whole building run smoothly!) and she takes care of the kids, staff, and parents! #oklaed
A6d #oklaed And I have to give a shout out to my Super(intendent) Friends who always have good answers to tough questions, along with perspective and humor. We're in this together!
#oklaed A5 I always appreciate when Ts stop by the office and ask my opinion or to brainstorm about a situation. One of the best ways they make me feel valued.
I am like @shariGateley! I want to say this about all of #oklaed. I also love my other edchat friends from #sunchat and #pblchat. They love me and challenge me.
A6) I have to blanket this. I appreciate those who participate on #oklaed. I learn so much, and I can’t help but think what fabulous teachers they are because of their responses. Caring for others shows. Thank you to #oklaed members for helping make me a better teacher. #oklaed
A3) Could be a variety of things depending on the school...building leadership, teachers who may not be the right fit for their position..but also community perception of their school. Some schools are labeled as “bad schools” even though great things are going on inside. #oklaED
#oklaed A6: @DewinterAmber Thanks for always being there for me, listening to what's going on, and giving me advice. I never thought a former student would be my friend.
A5: I should do this more often. I get sucked into my own space and don’t do a great job of recognizing those around me. @kasnelson I really do appreciate your direction and vision. I can’t imagine a better person to work for! #oklaEd
Q3: I know my own children have issues with bullying, teachers treating children unfairly (having favorites), not having enough resources for all Ss (textbooks, etc.), not being allowed to go to the restroom. There are plenty of reasons. #oklaed
A6; @scottkiker@jenn_rkeim@BoomerKurt Thanks for taking time to visit with me when I have a hundred questions! I appreciate you making me feel important enough to be heard! #oklaed
A7: Feeling needed keeps me here. :-) But staying positive is a whole other issue. Ss returning to say that my class prepared them for college is what keeps me going and energized! #oklaed
#oklaed have you ever really thanked who hired you? I have to try to not thank her daily. Daily I consider emailing her. I have to reel myself back. Lol that’s how much I love my district and school.
A4: I start the year by telling my students I want to find out where they are in their science understanding and elevate it. Doesn’t matter where you start. We are all going to raise our game throughout the year. #oklaed
A7 - Uhm @TheMrsGragg says we are not leaving here. But really it is three things - the leadership at MCHS and Mid-Del as a whole, my colleagues, and finally my Ss. I love where I am! #MDubLearns#oklaed
A7) I love watching a lightbulb click on in a S or in a T. As admin, it keeps me going when I see positive growth in anyone in the bldg. I love sharing the positives that I see w/ others. #just1spark#oklaed
A7: It's easy to let the stress and negativity get to you, but you have to let it go. The kids need you, I love what I do and where I do it and I refuse to let the negativity hang around. #oklaed
A7 - My Ss - seriously y’all - they are changing the freaking world. They are changing their families (1st generation high school grads/1st gen college). They are going to make our state & our country better. I can’t say it enough, but my Ss are my HEROES! #oklaed
A5. From the other side..I have several teachers that lift me up daily with positive comments or a simple thank you. The positive culture flows both ways when it is in place. Those positive comments are certainly welcome. Much of the negative is hidden in the office. #oklaed
A7 #oklaed Kids. Teachers. People who make me laugh. Loud music. Podcasts that make me think. Reminders that the world has beauty and connectivity and meaning.
A7: In the words of @russwest44 , why not??? "We were moving mountains long before we knew we could" SHOUTOUT TO OKLAED FAM. Y'all are Hall of Famers in my book! #oklaed
A7 my kids. I have THE BEST students in Oklahoma by far. They are stellar. Likable, kind, creative, funny, talented, generous, super smart, eager—I could go on and on...and usually do! #sorrynotsorry#oklaed
A7- Oklahoma teachers did some INCREDIBLE things last spring. That pay raise just hit 🙌 Above all, my students are AMAZING as always. That's keeping me positive and teaching in Oklahoma! #oklaed
Before we end, who will join me at Stella Nova on Western in OKC on Saturday, October 20 at 9 a.m. to wrap up fall break! Trying to start a regular #coffeeEDU#oklaed
A7: this group of people keep me positive! I have always dreamed of Oklahoma being a state where S statements are no longer “I can’t wait to get out”. I believe you all have the same passion to change that narrative! #oklaed
A4) As an A, give T’s permission to focus on this first. Work with the counselor and psych to put systems in place which support S’s and T’s in this way. Model teaching and reinforcing these skills to S’s and then having discussions about it with T’s on a regular basis. #oklaED
A7: What keeps me positive is feeling called by God to serve him in MY community. I am called to be a positive influence on the students in my school and make sure that they know that they are loved! #oklaed
A6- My dude @mrjoshflores dueced out on OK, but he's still a beacon of positivity! He cracks me up with kid pics and challenges me with his reading list. #oklaed
#oklaed A7: Who keeps me teaching in Oklahoma? The students. We can do so much more in education than what we are doing right now, and it's time that old teachers like me to make that difference.
A6. Shout outs to the masses. The few and far between negatives cannot thrive in Sulphur. Overwhelming positivity drives us to simply be better each day. SMS will never allow negativity to take hold in our amazing school. #oklaed
A8: My school doesn't have an official program other than Student of the Month, but I love the #RepTheU that @StaceyRman was talking about earlier! #oklaed
Follow up because I’ve never publicly shared my adoration for @KristinAtchley always making me think and even when discussing difficult things keeps it positive 🙌🏻 #oklaed
A5) Being present in their classrooms, notes and words of encouragement, sharing out at faculty meetings, emailing/telling others about successes, advocating for them...oh, and donuts and sonic drinks of course! #oklaED
A7: Positive human interaction helps me overcome the stress of deadlines, paperwork, upset parents, and teachers. Spending time in the halls, classrooms and the lunchrooms erase that and fills my cup 👏🏾 #oklaed
A8) Writing my dissertation on this topic in urban HS settings. It's great stuff. The positive focus is so much better than the punitive mindset. It takes years to establish well at the HS setting and the buy-in aspect from all staff is key - from admin to support staff. #oklaed
A8 - We do. We are working at getting better with it. We have started a thing called “Patriot Nation” where we are trying to reward days without incidents. PBIS at the HS level is a hard mind shift for some Ts - I thin some need to understand the “why” a little more. #oklaed
Seriously, Day made! When a TOY finalist mentions me, I feel way humbled. I’m definitely nothing special. I just really like #oklaED and touchy-feely stuff. 😘
Follow up because I’ve never publicly shared my adoration for @KristinAtchley always making me think and even when discussing difficult things keeps it positive 🙌🏻 #oklaed
A7. Things can always be worse. I stay in Oklahoma to fight for the state that served me so well. I owe it to my family, my past teachers, and future teachers to keep Oklahoma afloat and on course for better days. I suppose it is my calling. #oklaed
A6) @KristinAtchley@ccoxteach and @Land_ELA always pump me up! I also am truly lucky to have a super positive principal and fantastic teacher leaders throughout my building! 💜#oklaED
A9: People who are comfortable and loved are willing to take chances, so they try harder and are able to take non-successes as learning milestones instead of quitting due to failure. #oklaed
A9 #oklaed Teachers/principals who feel safe and respected can innovate. When they're chasing test scores and pointless mandates. They can't. #MDPurpose
A9 in a positive school culture, it’s ok to take risks and try something new...even if it doesn’t work. If you feel supported trying something new, you open yourself up to tons of new avenues for creating new ways of doing things! #oklaed
A9: Positive school culture leads to innovation because students and teachers feel comfortable to take risks because they know that they will be loved and accepted even if they fail. #oklaEd
A9: I feel like when Ss believe in themselves and feel free to express themselves, and Ts are free to teach, the possibilities for greatness and innovation or limitless #oklaed
A9 - It allows Ts to take greater risks in the classroom b/c Ss buy-in to Ts more in a positive culture. They are willing to try something new (even when it’s new for the T) b/c they know the T has their best interests in mind. #oklaed
A9) When everyone in the school feels accepted and welcome they can then be innovative and creative. Negative shuts down the mind and floods it with thoughts that are overwhelming. #oklaed
A9 - When you are in a positive place you feel supported and free to try to new and innovative things. You are willing to try the potentially crazy idea because of that positive support. #MDubLearns#oklaed
A9: A positive school culture builds trust from top to bottom which in turn allows everyone to explore new opportunities and take risks without the fear of failure...it’s just an opportunity to learn. #oklaed
#oklaed A9: Well, there's not as much micromanaging, I hope, because micromanaging stifles innovation and creativity. We need to go beyond what the standards say because our Ss are already there.
A9: Definitely not naturally. When you’re diving into the WHY positive culture, you understand kids as they are today which hopefully can lead to innovation. It can be a challenge but always worth it. #oklaED
A7 I stay in teaching because my students need me and I need them. You don't have to go to some far away place to do good. Oklahoma needs dedicated teachers more now than ever before. #oklaed
A9: A positive school culture means all have bought in to the overall goals. This mindset leads to the openness and welcoming attitude for sharing ideas. Dialogue discussions open the door to unlimited possibilities. #oklaed
A9. With positivity comes the ability to try new things without the fear of negative repercussions. When the culture is positive, even failure is seen as an opportunity to learn. #oklaed
A9: When positive energy flows through the school, everyone wants to be there. Ideas get brought up to teachers from students and vice versa; this can lead to great changes for the better. #oklaed
A7: I have the sweetest class this year. They make me smile. Honestly, I’m taking it year by year at this point whether I stay in Oklahoma. I hate to say that. I’ve given it a lot of years. Hopefully, more changes are on the horizon. #oklaed
I always love a chat when I can’t keep up with all the great info coming through. @KimberBlodgett did an amazing job as always with these packed questions!! #oklaed
Q10: In a positive classroom culture learning looks like all of Gardner's multiple intelligences at work. Not children stuck in chairs all day. #oklaed
A10: Shouted out answers, passionate debates, group experiments, laughter and music, Ss helping each other, and projects that make you say...COOL! #oklaed
A10b #oklaed Students feel safe to try, which means that they may make mistakes. They are supported by the teacher and they support their peers through the struggle of learning.
A10 - It is student centered and driven by student choice and focuses on standard mastery over testing.
Probably a lot of different things happening all over the room at the same time. #oklaed#MDubLearns
A9: Our Child nutrition program is the #1 public school program in the country because of an innovative leader whose ideas were dismissed at her former job. Our people are amazing, they need to feel free to share their hearts and minds. Listen to #oklaed !
#oklaed A10: Students have a voice and a choice, they realize that they can make a difference, and they make a plan to follow. Students go beyond what is expected of them.
A9 When you have a positive attitude, your creative juices flow. Success begets success and you are not afraid to venture out of your comfort zone. A positive atmosphere is supportive of new ideas. #oklaed
#oklaed A11: A teacher will always take risks, see what works and what doesn't work, reflect, and try again. Education changes so much that even ideas that I taught last year had to be changed to fit this year.
A10 tbh, it can look a little like controlled chaos at times because it’s student-centered and student-led. But there’s a lot of energy and the time goes by very quickly...and the kids retain so much more than you would imagine! #oklaed
A8 Few students leave my office without hearing I love you and good kids make mistakes. I mean it, and they believe me. Consequences do not change but they are given with respect. This kid was shocked when I served noon detention with him. We are in it together at SMS. #Oklaed
A7) On the hard days, I try to end by sitting in a classroom and then making a positive phone call to a parent to tell them how great their kid is. It refocuses me. I’m here to advocate for students and teachers....and amidst it all, great things are happening here. #oklaED
A11) In a positive school environment Ts aren't afraid to take risks. They try new things, they fail, they admit mistakes, they share their learning with others, and they aren't embarrassed to do so. #oklaed
A10: S learning is ind paced as much as possible. Ss aren’t worried about comparing themselves to others bc they truly understand that everyone has different strengths so they aren’t threatened by their weaknesses. Ts use every opp to teach #sel. #oklaEd
A11 #oklaed Teachers aren't too exhausted to learn. Teachers get a say in what they learn. We honor the time of teachers as they learn (a) by not wasting it, and (b) by compensating them for it. Teacher experts are encouraged to share expertise by a district that values them.
A11: Ooooo teacher learning! LOVE this! I learn from my kids everyday. Sometimes the lessons are inevitable, but usually they help me see what works and what doesn't and where maybe I should change the way I approach the struggle. #oklaed
A11: In a positive school culture, Ts are ALWAYS learning, so it looks like a regular school day! But it should also include elements like #observeme and peer reading groups - and passion projects! #oklaed
A11 teachers learning from and supporting each other, lots of collaboration, cross-curricular lessons, with leadership from admin who are the best teachers in the building #oklaed
A9: the only behavior issues I have this year is TALKING! Yikes! I use a bell system at circle time. I made the rules clear from day 1 about when it’s appropriate to talk and when it’s not! They self monitor their friends now bc no one wants to hear that “ting”#oklaed
@KimberBlodgett great job hosting the #oklaed chat!!!! It was @KimberBlodgett that encouraged me to not just read these chats, but really participate. I really appreciate you! You did a great job!
A11: Ts who want to learn because they want to get better. PD isn’t a dry seminar to sit through because you need points, but it is individualized to what the T needs to get better for their Ss. #oklaEd
A9: No one has a new idea and runs to their most negative friend to share it with them first. I want my Ss to know that I get excited when they have epiphanies. I’m “all in” with their learning and love when we can come up with new learning strategies together. #oklaed
A9. When teachers and kids know unconditional love and understanding are in place, risks are taken and failures can be a chance to get it right the next time. #oklaed
I have to keep telling myself that when the students are all talking at the same time. Thursday my Ss got loud and I was about to shut it down when I realized EVERY group was talking about the reading! #1coolthing#oklaed
A9: Student learning looks like a group of students questioning and assisting each other to strive for understanding instead of just wanting the answer. It looks like students who consistently strive to do their best on every assignment/every test. #oklaed
A11: Realizing that one-size fits all practices do not exist. Look for ways to meet the students where they are and not being afraid to step out of the comfort zone, nothing grows there anyway. #oklaed#learningneverstops
A8) Yes. I think it can establish great foundational practices. The admin and faculty truly have to take the strategies and personalize them to their building though in order for long-term progress to be made. #oklaED
A12: I’ll be a parent for a moment. I smell cafeteria food, see smiling faces, happy voices, willing people, and excited kids! Go @NormanSchools#oklaed
A10. Students and teachers in a positive classroom view mistakes as learning opportunities and one another as teammates. When one person succeeds everyone does. When one person doesn’t, the whole team has to brush off and work together to do better next time. #oklaed
A10: Student learning looks like a group of students questioning and assisting each other to strive for understanding instead of just wanting the answer. It looks like students who consistently strive to do their best on every assignment/every test. #oklaed
A11: The city of Tulsa directed some sales tax funds to teachers who mentor new teachers. They are already doing it but it's great as a district to be able to give them a little bonus for their leadership. #oklaed
A12 - I want them to hear learning taking place. In some places that might be a cacophony of chaos, other places that might be quiet while choice reading happens. I want them to see evidence of what the Ss are producing all over the building. #MDubLearns#oklaed
Great topic and chat. It’s important to engage in self-reflection but also how the building/district is functioning. Thanks friends for being vulnerable! ❤️✌🏼#oklaed
A9: It all goes back to relationships. Collaboration is the key to success. Sharing ideas and learning from one another. We are all in it together. We do a social contract at the beginning of the year. #oklaed
