#mdeschat Archive
A weekly chat focusing primarily on educational issues relevant to Elementary School educators based in Maryland.
Thursday June 9, 2016
8:00 PM EDT
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:01 PM EDT
Good evening and thanks for joining
#mdeschat
! Please tell us your name, where you work, and what you do! We will be using the Q1/A1 format.
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:02 PM EDT
Chris, elementary principal in Glen Burnie, MD
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:03 PM EDT
@principal64
Hey Chris, good to see you brother!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:04 PM EDT
Walt, principal in Hyattsville. Glad to be moderating tonight!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:04 PM EDT
Greg- 2nd grade,
#TeamFelegy
. Moving to K next year. Ready to collaborate! Hope are all well.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:04 PM EDT
While everyone joins in, we will have a discussion starter!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:05 PM EDT
PQ1: What difficult topics have you had to deal with in your school this year or in the past?
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:05 PM EDT
@jazzmeister2013
Hey Greg! Glad to have you back with us tonight! Thank you for the RTs.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:06 PM EDT
PA1 Dealing with loss is always hard to discuss with Ss and staff.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:07 PM EDT
Forgot to mention, I am a principal...following directions.
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djsardine
Jun 9 @ 8:08 PM EDT
PA1: Ss identities not being accepted by families and teachers
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@WalterReap
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:08 PM EDT
PA1: Reunification and helping immigrant Ps navigate a new culture.
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principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:09 PM EDT
PA1. Our children probably see too much on the new
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djsardine
Jun 9 @ 8:09 PM EDT
Checking out
#mdeschat
Alex, tech teacher and integration specialist
@WalterReap
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:09 PM EDT
@djsardine
YES! Thank you for joining us tonight Alex!
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:09 PM EDT
PA1. Our children probably see too much on the news
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:10 PM EDT
Transitioning to TweetDeck momentarily. Back in a moment.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:10 PM EDT
Question one coming up!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:11 PM EDT
Q1: What strategies for speaking and listening do you use to prepare students for classroom discussion?
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:11 PM EDT
PA1. Of course, who can explain this year's political race to children, even I don't understand it
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WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:12 PM EDT
A1: Accountable talk strategy helps Ss affirm or refute with evidence, but in order to do so, students have to be listening!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:13 PM EDT
@WalterReap
Good to be among fellow leaders this evening!
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:13 PM EDT
A1. Children need practice, lots of sharing/ collaborating, a classroom climate that encourages failure free discussions
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:14 PM EDT
A1- Frequent modeling. What does respectful communication look and sound like? Taking turns sharing; partner conversations.
#mdeschat
MD_ProfLearning
Jun 9 @ 8:15 PM EDT
1st Annual MD Teacher Leadership Summit. July 19th-20th - Annapolis. Apply Today!
https://t.co/CCa6vtWPlj
#mdeschat
https://t.co/6E0iGplEBF
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:15 PM EDT
Question 2 coming up!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:15 PM EDT
@principal64
This is so important! Empowering Ss voice, providing a comfortable space for expression, exploration.
#mdeschat
djsardine
Jun 9 @ 8:15 PM EDT
A1: We fishbowl turn and talk, and leave notes on desks to remind Ss what it looks/sounds like
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:15 PM EDT
A1. Scaffold, start small and build, use high interest topics and humor
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WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:16 PM EDT
Q2: When preparing to discuss difficult topics with Ss, what steps do you take to get ready?
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WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:17 PM EDT
A2: Teach students point of and perspective.
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WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:17 PM EDT
A2: Teach students point of view and to value perspective.
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principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:17 PM EDT
A2. At the elementary level you have to make sure it is developmentally appropriate, be thoughtful in choosing the topic
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jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:18 PM EDT
Great question. A2- Be open-minded. Allow fluid conversation. Establish understanding, appreciation of differing perspectives.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:18 PM EDT
A2: Resist the urge to "weigh-in", but rather to listen to determine potential impact of what is being shared.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:18 PM EDT
@principal64
Good point. When concept is T-selected, careful thought needs to be placed on the depth and breadth of the dialogue.
#mdeschat
djsardine
Jun 9 @ 8:19 PM EDT
@jazzmeister2013
agree, which S voices you chose to listen to, impacts the type of convo you get in class
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:20 PM EDT
@WalterReap
Sometimes it's the listening that positively impacts the conversation. Freedom of expression w/o judgment.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:20 PM EDT
A2: Depending on the topic, be comfortable with the topic and share openly with colleagues (guidance counselor, school nurse, etc.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:20 PM EDT
Question 3 on the way!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:20 PM EDT
@djsardine
Absolutely! Intentional listening.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:21 PM EDT
@WalterReap
Collaboration ahead of time can really strengthen the conversation. Allows for focus, scope of conversation.
#mdeschat
djsardine
Jun 9 @ 8:21 PM EDT
@WalterReap
Yes, showing discomfort creates taboo and takes away form safe space in your classroom
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:22 PM EDT
@djsardine
@jazzmeister2013
Empower Ss to talk openly while creating a list of words/phrases that are off limits (degrading).
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:22 PM EDT
@WalterReap
@djsardine
Yes! Set boundaries, while at the same time developing Ss voice.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:22 PM EDT
Q3: How does studying history or following current events help to facilitate difficult conversations with Ss?
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jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:24 PM EDT
A3- Sometimes attitudes or perspectives on topics change over time.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:24 PM EDT
A3: History can help Ss make connections to topics and see the relevance to current events while taking the focus off of Ss.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:24 PM EDT
Five Strategies for Hitting the Listening and Speaking standards
https://t.co/tIQDeJ89OB
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:25 PM EDT
A3. As they get older, children need an understanding of the world, many current events are starting points for impt conversations
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:26 PM EDT
A3. Our children need to learn about the world beyond their community
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:26 PM EDT
@principal64
Great point Chris! Can serve as great entry points into critical thinking.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:26 PM EDT
10 Ways to talk to students about sensitive issues
https://t.co/NxDcKIgD9C
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:27 PM EDT
@principal64
As the Metro train always says, "Doors opening!" Understanding of the world, beyond just the classroom & locale.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:28 PM EDT
A3: History is great for getting Ss to see cause and effect relationships, interpret actions of others; think critically!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:29 PM EDT
@WalterReap
Like the part about allowing for Ss investigation. Taking the conversation and learning further.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:29 PM EDT
Question four coming up!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:31 PM EDT
Q4: What can be done to the physical environment to create space when discussing difficult topics with students?
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:32 PM EDT
A4: When using the socratic method, moving the desks so students can see one another helps to facilitate discussions.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:33 PM EDT
Interesting Q. A4- Creating a comfortable space, perhaps a more open space to allow for a relaxed atmosphere. Supporting...
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:33 PM EDT
A4. Sometimes finding a more open location is good for promoting conversation, go outside, find another room, walk and talk
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:33 PM EDT
A4: When discussing difficult topics, a student might need to be private or in closer proximity to the teacher.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:34 PM EDT
A4- ...Ss voice. Might be a different structural setup than the norm.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:34 PM EDT
@principal64
I know a teacher who likes to use the carpet as a time to check in with Ss as they sit in a circle.
#mdeschat
miss_gingerann
Jun 9 @ 8:35 PM EDT
A4: lighting and music play a role in the energy of the room. A comfortable environment is conducive for difficult discussions
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:35 PM EDT
@miss_gingerann
Thank you for joining us Ginger.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:35 PM EDT
@miss_gingerann
Yes! Creating a stress-free zone for Ss to feel comfortable expressing themselves and dealing w/ diff. issues.
#mdeschat
miss_gingerann
Jun 9 @ 8:36 PM EDT
Sorry I'm late!
@WalterReap
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:36 PM EDT
@WalterReap
@principal64
Yes! Can be a wonderful tool. Becomes a part of the routine. The carpet becomes a place of sharing.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:37 PM EDT
@miss_gingerann
You're right on time for the rest of the conversation! Welcome!
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:37 PM EDT
Chiming in for the 1st time from MIchigan
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:37 PM EDT
@miss_gingerann
Always on time Ginger. Your presence is most appreciated!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:37 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
Welcome to
#mdeschat
! Glad you could join us.
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:37 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
Glad to have you Erika!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:37 PM EDT
Question five coming up!
#mdeschat
djsardine
Jun 9 @ 8:38 PM EDT
a4: Yes, also don't use posture or furniture that elevates you over students
#ditchdesk
#mdeschat
@WalterReap
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:38 PM EDT
A4: Sometimes anonymity helps facilitate difficult conversations with Ss.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:39 PM EDT
https://t.co/x1m5fy6rUA
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:39 PM EDT
Q5: What strategies can you suggest for dealing w/ strong emotions one might experience when discussing difficult topics with Ss?
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:40 PM EDT
@djsardine
@WalterReap
True! Connecting at or close to eye-level. Building Ss comfort.
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:40 PM EDT
A1#enbrighten for more about listening and speaking!
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:41 PM EDT
A5. Get them to "argue" both sides of an issue, it helps even out the emotions
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:41 PM EDT
A5- Be understanding. Be transparent at the beginning that the dialogue might tug at emotion. Reinforce being open-minded.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:41 PM EDT
A5: Assess your own emotions before discussing difficult topics. Ask how do I feel about this topic before the discussion.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:42 PM EDT
@principal64
I love this one. Assign roles and perspectives to get Ss to step outside of their comfort.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:43 PM EDT
@principal64
Yes! Develops Ss understanding of multiple perspectives. Not always a right or wrong answer, or one approach.
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:43 PM EDT
Share with Ss the power of disturbance and productive struggle in the end
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:44 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
Great point! It is ok NOT to know the answer or come to a consensus.
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:45 PM EDT
A5 share the power of disturbance and productive struggle in the end
#mdeschat
MD_ProfLearning
Jun 9 @ 8:45 PM EDT
1st Annual MD Teacher Leadership Summit. July 19th-20th - Annapolis. Apply Today!
https://t.co/CCa6vtWPlj
#mdeschat
https://t.co/jsO06swYNw
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:45 PM EDT
@WalterReap
@erika_lusky
Valuing others' opinions. Respectful disagreement is okay. Don't have to feel the same way.
#mdeschat
miss_gingerann
Jun 9 @ 8:46 PM EDT
A5: crying, anger, fear, more questions no feeling at all. It's good for s to see multiple reactions
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:46 PM EDT
How to Manage Emotions more Effectively
https://t.co/pVuA6RtmCW
#mdeschat
miss_gingerann
Jun 9 @ 8:47 PM EDT
A5: setting the stage before discussing difficult conversations. Students need to be taught options for handling emotions....
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:48 PM EDT
@WalterReap
A practice Ss need more and more development. Coping w/ difficulty more of a challenge. Empower Ss w/ coping skills.
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:48 PM EDT
@jazzmeister2013
@WalterReap
#mdeschat
I believe changing your mind based on evidence and reasoning is a sign of a highly intelligent human
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:49 PM EDT
Question six coming up!
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:49 PM EDT
Emotional Intelligence makes of breaks leadership.
#MDeschat
https://t.co/ZGis8uPaOa
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:46 PM EDT
How to Manage Emotions more Effectively
https://t.co/pVuA6RtmCW
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:49 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
@WalterReap
Absolutely! Being able to draw conclusions based on acquisition of information is significant. Yet...
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:49 PM EDT
@missreed
Glad you could make it Rian! Hoping your class went well!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:49 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
@WalterReap
...Ss need to understand that disagreement or seeing things differently is perfectly normal.
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:50 PM EDT
Steps to learning how to be AWARE
#MDESchat
https://t.co/yNlVPnYfnM
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:50 PM EDT
@missreed
is in the house! Welcome!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:51 PM EDT
Q6: What steps would you suggest to take care of yourself following a difficult conversation?
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:51 PM EDT
@jazzmeister2013
@WalterReap
one of my favorite Ted talks
#mdeschat
https://t.co/KWkloFAEm9
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:51 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
@WalterReap
Thanks for sharing! Checking it out now!
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:52 PM EDT
A6. Take time to decompress, reflect, write, go for a run
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:52 PM EDT
Accountable talk Sentence Starters are great for setting the culture for this
#AgressDisagree
#Evidence
#MDESchat
https://t.co/68dKPQqyUD
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:49 PM EDT
@erika_lusky
@WalterReap
...Ss need to understand that disagreement or seeing things differently is perfectly normal.
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:52 PM EDT
A6: We need to change positions, walk outside, and breathe to help unpack emotions we carry when having difficult convers.
#mdeschat
jedipadmaster
Jun 9 @ 8:52 PM EDT
@WalterReap
#mdeschat
a6 stay focused on what is important what's good for kids & what's good for teachers makes the tough talks easier
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:53 PM EDT
A6- Allow for time to decompress if needed. Fresh air is always a positive. Perhaps listening to favorite music.
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:53 PM EDT
@missreed
going to check this out after the chat,tx!
#mdeschat
jedipadmaster
Jun 9 @ 8:53 PM EDT
@WalterReap
a6
#mdeschat
after a tough talk I like to pray about it & talk to my wife to make sure I'm staying focused
missreed
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:53 PM EDT
Happy to be here learning with you all!
#Mdeschat
https://t.co/o3kiFeGEst
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:50 PM EDT
@missreed
is in the house! Welcome!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:53 PM EDT
@jedipadmaster
Thank you for weighing in Toby! Always appreciate your perspective!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:54 PM EDT
@missreed
Yes! Accountable talk is a wonderful tool to focus the conversation.
#mdeschat
miss_gingerann
Jun 9 @ 8:54 PM EDT
A6:
@principal64
or swim
#mdeschat
😄
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:54 PM EDT
@jedipadmaster
@WalterReap
Welcome Toby!
#mdeschat
jedipadmaster
Jun 9 @ 8:55 PM EDT
@WalterReap
no worries appreciate sharing and learning with you all
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:55 PM EDT
A6: Everybody loves exercise right! :)
#MDESchat
https://t.co/mNHYUj7fci
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:52 PM EDT
A6. Take time to decompress, reflect, write, go for a run
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:55 PM EDT
A6: Prayer is a powerful tool for refreshing and renewing my mindset. Thank you for the reminder
@jedipadmaster
#mdeschat
jedipadmaster
Jun 9 @ 8:55 PM EDT
@jazzmeister2013
@WalterReap
thanks for having me
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:56 PM EDT
@miss_gingerann
oops, I forgot about our Bay Bridge swimmer 😉
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:56 PM EDT
@jedipadmaster
@WalterReap
Prayer is always powerful. Before and after. Allows for guidance, perspective, focus, reflection.
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:56 PM EDT
@missreed
Pushing for 10k+ steps daily. I don't run in public though, lol. :-)
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:57 PM EDT
Pledge: What can you do differently when discussing difficult topics with Ss?
#mdeschat
jedipadmaster
Jun 9 @ 8:58 PM EDT
@jazzmeister2013
@WalterReap
so true. Just for strength wisdom & guidance
#mdeschat
erika_lusky
Jun 9 @ 8:58 PM EDT
@WalterReap
just listen, no advice!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:59 PM EDT
Pledge: I can listen more and find ways to affirm perspectives.
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Jun 9 @ 8:59 PM EDT
A6: Crying might also be needed. A hug from a loved one. Time in your personal space with no interruptions.
#MDESchat
jazzmeister2013
Jun 9 @ 8:59 PM EDT
@jedipadmaster
@WalterReap
Sometimes the courage to address a difficult concept as well.
#mdeschat
jedipadmaster
Jun 9 @ 8:59 PM EDT
A6 my favorite after tough talk activity involves my hammock
#mdeschat
https://t.co/R7xtsKBC0I