#mschat Archive

A chat that offers middle school teachers a chance to have a collaborative discussion about a different topic each week. Our topics change from week to week, ranging from Common Core State Standards to Character Education. During the chat, participants exchanges ideas and resources. The chat group ranges in size each week from 10 to 50+ participants. Discussion can be general talking about instructional style or process to specific. Recently members of the chat group help each other create lessons.

Thursday August 10, 2017
8:00 PM EDT

  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Welcome to the Kick-off #mschat for 2017-2018 School Year!
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Hope everyone has had a great summer and is ready (or almost ready) to return to the classroom #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Topic for tonight’s #mschat Starting off on the right foot!
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Let’s start with Introductions #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    I am Todd 7th grade science teacher from Warren, MI and #mschat organizer
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Hi! Shelby, NOLA, Math 7 and Algebra 1. First day with students was today! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:02 PM EDT
    Hey Shelby Hope the day went well and you are ready for a great year! #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Bridget from Alpharetta, GA. 6th grade ELA. Into our second week, fantastic new students working with me to create a class family #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Good evening Bridget Hope all is well! Glad you are here #mschat
    In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • ellendamore Aug 10 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hi #mschat ters! Ellen from NE Oh. Ready 4 another great chat and fabulous year!
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Hi. Cheryl--6th grade ELA teacher from Michigan. Looking forward to a great year! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    We will use the Q1 and A1 format tonight #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Good evening Ellen, Hope your summer was epic! #mschat
    In reply to @ellendamore
  • mskaufmanELA Aug 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hey #mschat ! I'm Melissa, and I'm a 6th grade ELA teacher from MO. I'll be lurking throughout our Open House!
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Hey Cheryl, back from our east! Hope the cape was marvelous for you #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Glad you are here have a great open house! #mschat
    In reply to @mskaufmanELA
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Questions will start flying soon! #mschat
  • RobynHartzellpd Aug 10 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hi there! Robyn from TX here #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Q1: What did you do over the summer to make you ready for school year? #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    It was great. Busy catching up at home. Looks like a good day to be a sixth grade ELA teacher on #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Rob from Dallas. Moving from 8th grade T to admin this year #mschat
  • ellendamore Aug 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Congrats Rob! #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • jbhanlon Aug 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Hello! Jackie Hanlon-8th Grade ELA teacher from NH! #mschat
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    A1: Been relaxing, reading and attended a 3 day PBL training done by Buck Institute #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    A1: Honestly? Very little. Lots of family emergencies kept me from any meaningful planning. #mschat
  • mskaufmanELA Aug 10 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    A1: Rest, Relaxation, & lots of #personalizedPD I'm now ready to start school on Tuesday!! #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    A1: I teach English, so I joined a #bookexpedition book share group and also read LOTS of MG books. Attended #nErDcampMI too. #mschat
  • RobynHartzellpd Aug 10 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    A1: tried to build up my collection of books to use as mentor texts. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Glad you are here Rob #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1: Vacation, Reading, Refreshing, connecting with personal learning #mschat
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1b: been strategizing how to begin new role. Lots of listening and learning #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1: I didn't finish my list - but I did lots of digging of resources and reading for inspiration. Lots of outdoor time to refresh #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    A1: However, I did help my district write instructional guides for our MS Math Ts. #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Hope you enjoyed our beautiful state. Safe travels,. #mschat
    In reply to @cmt215il
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    Any good titles you want to share? #mschat
    In reply to @RobynHartzellpd
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    yes it does #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches
  • jbhanlon Aug 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    A1: this summer I have read a lot, presented some great PD, done committee@work &attended a DOE workshop-recharging& excitedfor17/18 #mschat
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    Need to recharge! Long haul ahead. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    Andrew Maxey, middle school cheerer and champion of folks who understand and care about young adolescents. What's up #mschat !
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Do we ever finish our lists? I seem to make mine longer as the summer goes #mschat
    In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    The stars are rising because Andrew is here! #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Q 1 is What did you do over the summer to make you ready for school year? #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    Yes for sure we all need to recharge #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • ellendamore Aug 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1 June-started a team google doc 2 brainstorm ideas July-discovered @whyliveschool August- turned packets into digital forms #mschat
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: some rest, lots of time with my family, lots of reading, LOADS of planning for this year #mschat
  • RobynHartzellpd Aug 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    Voices in the park....great for perspective. Big black book of colors. Professional rug...the unstoppable writing teacher #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    "Insecurity" from Todd Bloch on @anchor: https://t.co/hzhfG6TUgo #mschat #miched
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    I've read Launch, Shift This, Start Right Now, Hacking PBL and am midway through Fahrenheit 451. Much to consider #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: Also had the wonderful opportunity to be on the faculty of the #AMLELeaders institute. Great experience. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Q2: What is the most important thing your students need to know about you/your class? #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    A1.b I did present two workshops at the county EdSummit & attended some fantastic presentations too! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Yes summer is for FAMILY and Planning #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    I did enjoy vacationing in Nantucket as well. Great getaway from TX heat! #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Loved #ShiftThis. @JoyKirr is an amazing teacher and generous with her ideas. #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX, @JoyKirr
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    A2: Ss need to know we are there for them! It's a partnership. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    A2: I want my students to know I care about THEM as humans .. I will listen and give them endless opportunities #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    A2: My Ss need to know that they will struggle, and I will not rescue them. My job is to support learning, not give answers. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • jbhanlon Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    A2:My students need to know that I am everything they have heard and then some but most of all I am honored to be their T #mschat
  • MomOfAllCapes Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Hey all my #sschat, #hsgovchat, #mschat folks... #games4ed is poppin' tonight... we're talking local gov and games! Join us! #TeachLocal
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Best part is any T can incorporate her thoughts easily. #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @JoyKirr
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    A2: I want all of my students to feel safe, valued, and successful. I am here to help make that happen. #mschat
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Relationships! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    YES #ShiftThis is a great book and I love what @JoyKirr is doing as an educator @skeeTX Maybe she need to join #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @JoyKirr, @skeeTX
  • RobynHartzellpd Aug 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    A2: that I want to be there with them. I coach Ts and I want them to know they have a cheerleader so they can be one for their Ts #mschat
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Brett from Iowa sliding in late. Just trying to catch up! #mschat
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    A2: Two main things: -I love you and I'll spend the whole year proving it. -Since I love you, I have really high expectations. #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Yes. You can tell she is in the classroom doing the real work and not writing from afar. #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX, @JoyKirr
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    That is great yes it is such an HONOR to teach students today! #mschat
    In reply to @jbhanlon
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Bam!! YES we LOVE them and EXPECT so much from them!! Kids can do anything when they want to do IT #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: that my biggest goal is that they enjoy learning. Just that. If they enjoy, the rest will come...& they will be writing. Lots. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    What learning is all about! Students need to know you care before they will care about learning! #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2 cont: We started today with the Noah's Ark puzzle from @fawnpnguyen. The rich discussions and lightbulbs were amazing. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @fawnpnguyen
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    Q3: How do you build relationships with your students from minute 1? #mschat
  • listenwiselearn Aug 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    Our Fall webinar series will deep dive into how to teach/assess listening and support #ELL: https://t.co/f39keUr2wg #mschat
  • AssignmentHelpN Aug 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A Writer’s Guide to Difference Between Editing and Proofreading https://t.co/wq0uN2w2rg #mschat #TNedchat #IRAchat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A3: Greet them at the door, Hand Shake, Smile, and asking for their name! #mschat
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A3 Learning names and taking a personal interest. Asking authentic questions looking for common ground. #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A3: finding out something about them day 1 & connecting. Sharing my story & encouraging questions. Community & communication #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A3: I ask Ss to intro themselves so I can make sure I pronounce their name right. Ss deserve to be called by their correct names. #mschat
  • RobynHartzellpd Aug 10 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A3: I try to find a connection. What is something we have in common? #mschat
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    A3: let them see who you are and take an interest in them, what they've done and goals for the new year #mschat
  • jdeek Aug 10 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    #mschat A2 - I will be an active participant in their lives. Been teaching long time. So fun to teach kids of kids, continue relationship
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Have to be genuine the first day. Forget the old adage of not smiling till christmas! #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • cybraryman1 Aug 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A3 My Building Relationships with Students page https://t.co/zorr4EacEx My #YouMatter page https://t.co/n12zMEMnOT #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A3: I share my unbridled (& slightly undignified) love of math & learning. It's okay to be enthusiastic about your passions. #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Yes - and saying their name back. Showing true intent to pronounce names correctly too-showing it matters to me as much-maybe more #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    A3: Love this piece about the importance of names by my friend .@alizateach https://t.co/yOwFIAm8ru #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    That is awesome! I share as much about me as possible in hopes of students seeing connections #mschat
    In reply to @RobynHartzellpd
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    I can't be someone I'm not, no matter my audience. Ss get to know me. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    A3: I like to find out their perceptions of themselves as learners. Lots of discussions, reflection, surveys, and activities. #mschat
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    A3: I've seen some AMAZING examples of building relationships the last few days. One key factor is being vulnerable & candid. #mschat
  • massignmenthelp Aug 10 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Every Student’s Guide to Writing the Best Research Proposal https://t.co/IsjdL9ykXS #mschat #TNedchat #IRAchat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Great Article about community thanks for sharing! #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @alizateach
  • cybraryman1 Aug 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    My Know Your Students page https://t.co/qhiJ4clGAY I sent incoming students picture post cards before school started. #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Yes. I tell them right off the bat that I have a short attention span & get bored easily so I like to have fun. They're relieved. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @skeeTX
  • ellendamore Aug 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    I love this poster. Its the first thing I show Ss #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Q3A: Should you find out about students before school starts up? Talking to other teachers? #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    That is on my door! Awesome #mschat
    In reply to @ellendamore
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A3a: I hesitate to talk to other teachers about students because I don't want to pre-judge them I want to know them from them #mschat
  • ellendamore Aug 10 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Prior to the school year we send Ps and assignment. "Tell us about your child in a Million Words or Less" Valuable info & P contact #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Unless there is a crisis (death in family or divorce), I prefer to get to know them myself and don't read files or chat in advance. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    A3a: Only my behav IEP's. Just cover triggers and strategies. Academics/personalities I want to discover. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Q4: What does day 1 look/feel like for you and students? #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    A3a: I like to have an idea of strategies for Ss who take longer to build relationships. What makes them shut down, what works well. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    I do this every year. So valuable! #mschat
    In reply to @ellendamore
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Our ELA teacher does the million words or less and shares #mschat
    In reply to @ellendamore
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    A3a: I'm fortunate that many of my current Ss had me last year, so relationships are already established. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    YEs need to read IEP and Behavior plans but I reserve judgement #mschat
    In reply to @hoffmanteambret
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    My cavet is that I will look at scores after several weeks in. #mschat
  • cybraryman1 Aug 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    My First Days of School page https://t.co/QTQsINkc1M #mschat
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    If you want an AMAZING relationship-building idea, check out what @JulieDRamsay & her Ss did today. Ss learned all the names too! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    I had that Last year and it really helped for most students #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A4: music, laughter, ice breakers and absolutely no academic work whatsoever! Establishing comfort zone is a must! #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A4: we have a few days (too many IMO) of whole class "orientation" activities and don't get to individual classes right away. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A5: First day feels like a day of sharing and getting to know you full of activity and movement with lots of interactions #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A4: This year I tried something new. No syllabus review, no class rules. Just engaging math problems and basic expectations. #mschat
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3A: Carefully. Preparation good; bias bad. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Totally! Have to stay away from handing out syllabus or talking about rules! #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    A4: We talk procedures & brainstorm how we want things in our class. Music plays, conversation thrives. Their expectations & mine #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    I have gotten rid of Syllabus all together and we create classroom expectations together after a couple of days #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Amen! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    Thats a bummer! We kick right into ind classes. I have myfirst rotation for 2 hours on day 1. #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @blocht574
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    A4 cont: At the end of the day, I was surprised at how well the day went and I wasn't exhausted. The paperwork can wait. #mschat
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    #OneWord for the school year works well too #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    I would rather be unprepared than develop a bias so yes be very careful when talking about students at start of year #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • ezigbo_ Aug 10 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    A5: what if there was no content instruction at all for the first two days at least? And no "syllabus review" either? #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    We have department expectations and basic info re. grading policies that has to go home, but it didn't have to go home today. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Love it! Easing into school works for everyone. #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    I kick in with content from day 1. Ive had all summer to prep for this, it's gotta be good! #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • skeeTX Aug 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Thx, all! Time to be dad! #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Yeah that can wait, I want my class to NOT be like every other I want it to stand out! make an Impression #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    A5: no syllabus, no content for almost the first week. Whole school fun day & assemblies add to our first week #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Agree. I think too much orientation makes them nervous. Routine of class eases stress. #mschat
    In reply to @hoffmanteambret, @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Enjoy the kids and thanks for joining in #mschat
    In reply to @skeeTX
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    We did math today, but it wasn't content standards. More like establishing what problem solving/justification looks like. #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Cool! I feel the class out and see how they are doing and what they need, Try to make week 1 FUN #mschat
    In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    That would be like my class! WHY do we need to even have a syllabus for kids in MS? #mschat
    In reply to @ezigbo_
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    Seeing that your subject can be fun goes a long way on days when you have to teach something not as fun. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:37 PM EDT
      Cool! I feel the class out and see how they are doing and what they need, Try to make week 1 FUN #mschat
      In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    BAM!! #mschat
    • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:38 PM EDT
      Seeing that your subject can be fun goes a long way on days when you have to teach something not as fun. #mschat
      • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:37 PM EDT
        Cool! I feel the class out and see how they are doing and what they need, Try to make week 1 FUN #mschat
        In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Q5: How do you establish procedures with your class/building? #mschat
  • RossCoops31 Aug 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    New post: Genius Hour Master Course – Oh My God, It’s Back Again… #education #mschat #byotchat https://t.co/Xi7zMFtp8o
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Aren't all subjects "FUN"? LOL yes science has its advantages #mschat Build something, show off chemical change, lots of phenomenon
    In reply to @CherylTeaches
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    We're a 6-12 school, so a lot of procedures in our MS classes are trickled down from the higher grades. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @ezigbo_
  • Mr_Lisek Aug 10 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A4: Ss create procedures G-Slides comics, team building activities, and not a whiff of content. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A5: I ask Students to write down what they need to learn and then we use the answers to create classroom expectations #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A5: a mix between my personal 'have to' and each class thoughts/feedback on what is going to work for them. Leadership roles key! #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A5: I don't have many procedures and prefer to share them as needed. Don't want to sound like teacher from Charlie Brown to them. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A5 YES! Doing class expectations while making elephant toothpaste! Reinforce using memes that use our school and Ts. #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    Great idea! #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    AH get it... Have to set up the HS expectations in 6th grade ... Well it is what it is ... #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • Mr_Lisek Aug 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    I agree. Let's learn at a pace that works for Ss and not worry about all of the black and white copy. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @ezigbo_
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    @PCMSD32 here is a weekly MS chat. #mschat going on now. #pcmsd32edchat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    It works well, Tables write out on butcher paper and then we post on wall to look for common themes #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A5: We have 4 class pillars: Appreciation, Attentive Listening, Integrity, and Mutual Respect. Everything comes from those. #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Well, all subjects should/can be fun, but not all teachers work that way. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    Sad truth in this statement. #mschat
    • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:43 PM EDT
      Well, all subjects should/can be fun, but not all teachers work that way. #mschat
      In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Sad but true... I guess not every student loves my class, and different strokes for different folks ..... #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Ss define each, what they look like, what they sound like, how we enforce them. Reinforce and refer back all year. #mschat
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    If someone were selling tickets to your class & you wouldn't rush to buy one, Ss aren't excited to be there either. #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @blocht574
  • jbhanlon Aug 10 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A4- I start off Day 1 outside w/First Day ofSchool Sign & hand it to groups of kids&take pics:) Not every1 has some1 who does it #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    For our Building Expectations we have students create roll plays to act out what it looks like and what it doesn't #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    We have to LOVE our own classes so the passion passes on to our Ss. #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @blocht574
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    Wish Admins thought this way for PD too! #mschat
    In reply to @CarrieAnnTripp, @CherylTeaches, @blocht574
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    Right! I always figure if I am bored, they are more so. I always think would I want to be a student in my class? #mschat
    In reply to @CarrieAnnTripp, @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    So true Carrie... #mschat This line goes through my head every day when planning lessons thanks to @burgessdave #tlap
    In reply to @CarrieAnnTripp, @CherylTeaches, @burgessdave
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    This came home for me when I realized how excited I always was to teach VBS. Wondered if I was that excited for nonfiction... #mschat
    In reply to @CherylTeaches, @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A5: I like to wait for procedures and expectations till after day 2 so students feel comfortable and relationships are established #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Q6: In what ways do you involve parents and community doing first day? #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Oops Q6: In what ways do you involve parents and community during the first day? #mschat
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    I have encouraged Ts not to spend 1st day all doing rules, syllabus, & books. Make Ss WANT to run back on day 2. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A6: Well To be honest Our school could be better on this one #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A6: Parent outreach is my weakest area. Lurking for suggestions to steal. #mschat
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    A6 Will send pics of 1st week activities to P's, my main focus is on getting to know Ss. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6: Before school starts our district has a school-a-polza to celebrate the start of school and for parents to meet staff #mschat
  • RobLunak Aug 10 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6 welcome everyone into the building, opening ceremony for all, coffee reception for parents when ss go to class #mschat
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6: Parent drop off/pick up line. 😜Jk. #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6: we start on a Thurs, so I start my weekly parent emails the first weekend. Share what we did, what's coming, and give q to ask #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A6: Elementary schools have meet the teacher nights before school starts, we have an open house the first week #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    A6: we have an ice cream social to meet parents at end of first week. Have also incorporated a parent orientation meeting that day. #mschat
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    Our school has a back to school BBQ the weekend before. Alumni frequently come back to attend. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    Not a bad place to interact but first day ?? maybe not #mschat
    In reply to @CarrieAnnTripp
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    In week 2 or 3 will have Ps in for a Tech Summitt to give them tools for our online curr and chromebook monitoring. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    I have heard from many in our community that MS need to do a better job involving parents (from parents at my son's school) #mschat
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6: We have orientation several weeks before. Open house to drop off supplies, meet Ts, & walk schedule. 2 days before school starts #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    We have an evening picnic he secretly d week of school. #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    We have an evening family picnic the second week. #mschat
    In reply to @Sneffleupagus
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    Its as tough a transition for Ps as Ss. Elem traditional high P involv, MS not so much. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Is this developmental for students or just the nature of the beast or should we change it? #mschat
    In reply to @hoffmanteambret
  • Mr_Lisek Aug 10 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    I agree with this. One of my goals this year to have more contact (specifically positive contact) w/Ps and bring them in class more. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:54 PM EDT
      I have heard from many in our community that MS need to do a better job involving parents (from parents at my son's school) #mschat
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    What can we do to increase/encourage more MS P involvement? #mschat
  • BrysonBridget Aug 10 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    A6: our school has a camp for the new 6 grdrs Sat before school. Parents have admin talk to them, tchrs do activities w/kids #mschat
  • jbhanlon Aug 10 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    A6: This is a goal for us. We have a district Back2School night but it is not tailored toward middle school. #mschat
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    I like this idea, We do an hour with 6th graders before school starts and parents have a meeting with admin #mschat
    In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    One of the problems is that parents feel cut off from school at same time their kids are trying to gain independence and push away. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @hoffmanteambret
  • hoffmanteambret Aug 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Developmental, but needs to be a gradual release, not cut P's off cold turkey. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Dropping off supplies in advance would be amazing. Hate dealing with it on Day 1. #mschat
    In reply to @CarrieAnnTripp
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    What does admin cover with Ps? #mschat
    In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    WOW! What a great night to chat with Middle Level Folks! Remember to follow those who help push your thinking #mschat
  • Mr_Lisek Aug 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    This used to happen with our school, but since we have gone to Balanced Calendar, we went away from it. #mschat
    In reply to @BrysonBridget
  • Sneffleupagus Aug 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    I feel like we have something similar ay the start of summer... but I haven't participated. #mschat
    In reply to @blocht574, @BrysonBridget
  • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    We are BACK for the 2017-2018 school season! Every Thursday at 8 PM ET invite fellow educators all are welcome #mschat
  • CarrieAnnTripp Aug 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Thanks for letting me pop in late! #mschat
  • CherylTeaches Aug 10 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Great chat, Todd. Happy Back to School, everyone. #mschat
    • blocht574 - Moderator Aug 10 @ 8:58 PM EDT
      WOW! What a great night to chat with Middle Level Folks! Remember to follow those who help push your thinking #mschat