#caedchat Archive
#caedchat is for California educators, by California educators. All are welcome as moderators and participants discuss issues that emerge in California education, which are generally applicable to other regions of the United States.
Sunday July 10, 2016
Welcome to tonight - I'm excited you're here. Please introduce yourself :)
For those of you that'd like to see the questions we will be discussing on tonight, look here: https://t.co/KiJ3FpVKtn
Greeting from rural NE IOWA EXCITED to hang out for a while…...
Excited to finally get to catch up with tonight!
Tech Rabbi here. director in Los Angeles
Good evening Chris from SoCal. APUSH & AVID teacher. Enjoying summer & ready to finally go on vacation this week.
Glad there are a few folks here tonight :)
Hi! Rae from . director and newly appointed K-8 school principal.
From San Diego, good evening all!
Kate, middle school science teacher in San Diego
Hi Scott Petri checking in from La La Land. How's the rest of our fair state? HS World History teacher.
Juan Ramirez - Technology Resource teacher at Otay Ranch High School (San Diego)
Paul from NJ. Dean of Behavioral Management/Special Ed Teacher/GameChanger. Ready to learn with you guys.
Amanda, math/tech TOSA in Campbell... Hope everyone's having a great summer!
Hello! Kjersti, 7th grade ELA teacher at Snowline JUSD.
Hi everyone, Kathy from Pleasanton CA 8th grade English Finally finished Masters so no more Sunday midnight submissions. Back to
Hi! This is my first time participating. I hope I'm in the right place!
From San Diego, history and math middle school teacher, music teacher for k-4, and technology coordinator
Lots of San Diego folks here tonight!
Let's get rolling, shall we? Q1 in 3, 2, 1 ...
Hello everyone! 7th grade L.A. and History from !
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Q1: How might we help Ts overcome their fear of covering hard topics? (ie police violence, systemic oppression)
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Contrats!! 1 more unit for me (in progress) and then for reals done with masters!!
Congrats! Glad you're here :)
I recognize some of my classmates, SDSU!
Congratulations on your new position. Good luck!
Yup - I saw your tweet, you're all set. Make sure to use the hashtag in every tweet!
Yay you. It's such a relief to be finished. Hang in there.
Wayne Wyoming P just here to be part of a powerful chat with
Hi! It's my first time in
A1: giving Ts resources to help them start courageous conversations and providing support by saying "it's hard for me too"
A1: Engage in conversations as colleagues regarding those topics & sharing resources that include readings/discussions for class
A1: provide teachers tools to manage student ideas, discussions and resources, digital tools give all students a voice
Great call - find someone to co-plan the unit with.
A1 SS Ts are used to controversial material: Chinese Excl, Red Summer & Japanese intrnmnt built into stdrds.
A1: By encouraging expansion of their horizon line. There are ways to cover the hard topics more easily but we must look deeply.
🤒😴Missed
but at least I'm at 😐
EduConsultant.
Taught 1st, 5th, 3rd + ACT prep.
A1: Ts need to feel that they can have the tough conversations and be supported by Admin
A1:Think fear sometimes comes from not knowing what 2say, where 2start. Let Ss start convo &ask the Qs https://t.co/agpljyueTC
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Q1: How might we help Ts overcome their fear of covering hard topics? (ie police violence, systemic oppression)
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a1) ask them to think age approp, lead but listen & be very aware of S responses.
Yes. Be willing to just listen!
A1:Not really sure how to help Ts overcome their fear of covering hard topics. I believe it's our job I'm curious to see other's A
my daughter is at SDSU starting her junior year becoming an teacher
Have you seen Ts go from hesitant to willing to teach the hard stuff? What helped them?
A1: Instead of leading as the "sage on stage" we become the "guide on the side." Listen to what S's are saying to understand.
A1 (con't): After we understand where they are at, we can meet them there.
1) at elementary level literature can be a great on ramp too.
a1) Sometimes by doing a little research and planning first and coming up with hard q's that S's may ask is the place to begin
A1: Ts need to be educated and prepared to talk about the tough stuff. They need to do their research
A1: By listening to them, giving them tools, and encouraging them to tackle these types of topics.
Wrapping up masters now! Yay SDSU!
A1: Lead by example. My colleagues know I will answer pretty much any question my students ask - and allow discussion.
Yes indeed we must meet them where they are at. https://t.co/quIrvqDlHP
1) at elementary level literature can be a great on ramp too.
But sometimes Ts need to start those convos too - not wait for Ss to initiate :)
A1: Put extra time into those LPs every few weeks or 1✖️ a month just to reteach ➕⌛️4️⃣ those TeachableMoments.
😬🍎-EduConsulting
Support is the key as believes.
Best Excuses for Missing Your Homeworkhttp://www.myassignmenthelp.net/blog/12-best-excuses-for-missing-your-homework/
A1: Stop talking and take an active role in listening - let Ss reflect when dealing with critical issues
A1 From an administrative ppoint of view, it would be a good idea to discuss this topic between adults first ,
True. I use literature and current events to instigate the discussion. Not sure how to get Ts on board with that.
I hope participants are following ppl involved in protests occurring now throughout the US. Good juxtaposition for this chat.
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Q2: How do we start these difficult conversations w/ Ss at different ages? What would this look like w/ your Ss?
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who owns the learning? The one that is learning should be doing the heavy lifting.
Interesting to see how and approached differently
A1: Honesty is best approach. But also need to be inclusive of S concerns. Avoid taking one sided views. Never emabrrass.
I agree staff sending the same message
a2) Up EL, would definitely use lit to get it going & start making connections. TFK & CNN S news can help too.
Q2: I usually start difficult discussions by sharing news articles with students and are great resources
A2: My fav lessons r on critical media studies starting w/ ads music & Disney. Evaluate how we learn ab power & privilege.
A2: Some things are left for home discussion and others might need to be generalized. Hopefully no one is showing videos to 3rd Ss
Let S's guide what they want to talk about.
A2: current events tie well to Roll of Thunder, and Newsela does a great job reporting tough issues.
A2: For my gr 9s and 10s, images and statistics have been powerful schema builders
Images and numbers tell a tale harder to spin
A2: teach computer apps in HS, I will ask students to present their point of view using web 2.0 tools ,
a2) use and let kids research current topics.
A2: Tailor-made for your S's. T's must know their audience and how/when to intervene during the journey.
a2) peer challenged me once anything talks bullying is a great place. S must understand empathy b4 they can identify in world.
A2: Developmental appropriateness is the key to discussing at different ages. Never assume there is only one correct view
True-- easier to help Ss through tough stuff when have good understanding of what's going on
A1 Starting w/the personal. Ever been to a protest? Ezperience w/police? Talk w/families abt issues
A2: Agree with current events, I usually bring it up, see what they know, and answer questions best I can, in appropriate way
I use , , , - key is moderate when needed, let ideas fly other times
Also giving Ss a variety of perspectives w/ more than one article. Helps Ss understand different pov
And they need to honor those who see it diff. We cant ask S to be open-minded & then not model it.
A2: Character education can be applied to all levels. Focus beyond the offender. Great lens for building empathy.
Love ! Such a good resource for educating Ss about current events https://t.co/4X0xvVQjkW
Q2: I usually start difficult discussions by sharing news articles with students and are great resources
So true re: knowing when to moderate and when to not. Need reps as a T for this.
I love my It makes me look 10 lbs lighter.
Kathy from Upland. I teach 9th graders biology content and life skills.
A2: As elem T I have to feel out whether issue needs to be discussed or deferred to parents...
A2cont: ...Ss that can't wait for home I pull aside 1-on-1 to listen to
Hey Rae! I hope you are well and you summer is great so far!
Q3: How do we share info about topics like these (police violence, systemic oppression) w/ Ss without feeding them an opinion?
THIS is essential. We must teach mutiple perspectives. Columbus was not a hero to all.
A3: Start by presenting the facts.
Great advice, used 2b very open with issues.Have a D who get frightened about all - news. Hope I did not hurt others. :(
Absolutely! Discuss from all sides & encourage empathy for different POVs
A3: Can be hard. Some Ss' privilege makes facts seem like pushing an opinion. Be prepared for pushback :)
So completely👍🏼Difficult topics are easier if you're discussing Luke SkyWalker or PhineasAndFerb. https://t.co/pHkGarLNNK
A3 Asking open-ended Qs: What evidence can you find that shows race relations have gotten better/worse since ?
A3: let Ss do research and let them find their own point of view. Just give them the topic.
A3 Why must opinions be avoided? Teachers are human.
Q3: By presenting the facts and opinions from both sides. Encourage Ss to back opinions up with facts. Always facts.
But who determines validity of those facts? Also important to discussion POV & how narratives are constructed.
A3: Important to present as many facts as possible. Some events and issues are fuzzy because of conflicting "facts".
A3: I think you need to cover bias first because if you share news articles/videos to open the topic, there will be bias
join us for and facilitate a session!
A3) Take a poll using or to get a feel for S's understanding.
Tips I got from & Be human, be neighborly, when you comment-compliment then ask a question.
Good segue for a lesson on presentation of facts by the media discussion?
A3: It is important to look at outside viewpoints using reputable sources, not just one's personal beliefs. Be balanced.
I don't think they need to be, necessarily. I think the numbers are clear on the existence of systemic racism.
Q3: Providing a variety of resources and then giving Ss time to synthesize...
Good point. Need to teach Ss how to find reliable info not just gosip
A3: Sometimes its admitting there r more than 2 sides to an issue. Creating a binary leads to over generalization & silencing
Q3: cont.... I like doing short silent debates. Then give Ss the opportunity to switch sides and argue for the other side.
as T we need to understand not all will get privilege at school age. It takes many a long time of mature discussion.
Yes! As I tell my Ss, debate and put down ideas, not people.
A3: Agreed-- focus on the facts to stay objective w/Ss https://t.co/xIIpKEgxPN
Q3: By presenting the facts and opinions from both sides. Encourage Ss to back opinions up with facts. Always facts.
Agree! Facts need to rule. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but not their own facts.
Meanwhile, during , my cousin just caught a Pokemon in my kitchen. he's been watching me the whole time.
Ab. So. Lutely.
Contiuing to understand privilege is a journey, not an endpoint.
A3: OK to feed them opinions but S's should be encouraged to examine those opinions from all angles. S's should reflect deeply?
A1: A2: A3:
🎥are a good place to start.
Older Ss might benefit from AngelinaJolie's
(👮🏻Brutality + MENtal🏥)
I am still on my journey for sure. But we can open doors in school but realize not all can get through yet.
We are there in my house too
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Q4: How can we help students see experiences beyond their own?
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A3: S's should be encouraged to ask themselves: How do we know? What other possibilities could there be? How do others feel?
My brother wanted me to to at the middle of the road to catch one.
Me too.Now,I point out pple doing good or helping around an incident so kids have something safe to rely on.
A4: Fiction is helpful. Students learn to empathize as they learn the character's story, motives, etc.
Many Ss don't realize there could be other possibilities. Depending on their age, we've gotta teach that first.
I had opinions&told Ss to respectfully share theirs but rule 4me, no sharing my current poli/relig opinions
A4: Bring your own experiences into the classroom. Find examples from all sides of the topic. There is usually more than 2
Q4: Google hangouts for real life pen pals to teach them about culture.
A4: Use brainstorming. Expose Ss to alternate sources of news; critical analysis. Good source is https://t.co/9fmn4AYlM5
Have Ss also for NS info from diff POV and examine. Like using Structured Academic Controversy format to ID POV & build consensus
John from San Juan Capistrano joining late.
Our board passed a res to start ethnic studies electives. Im creating one based on media studies. https://t.co/QCzImrpyw2
Jumping in late from Sacramento. First year teaching 5th grade, and am curious how deep we will go.
A3: I'm starting restorative circles this year as a way to teach empathy
A4: Classroom culture - so Ss feel safe sharing their stories - is really helpful here.
A4: For lower grades, give Ss popular story/movie and have them explain plot from different characters POV
Is it going to be a semester or year-long class?
A4: Literature is helpful & stories straight from the source (guest speakers, peers, you, etc) https://t.co/ZDsFKJV723
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Q4: How can we help students see experiences beyond their own?
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A4: start by highlighting the different experiences that Ss in the class have. Value each S unique experience
a4) hearing it from other people. When someone else shares their story, you can't argue their experience.
a4) hearing it from other people. When someone else shares their story, you can't argue their experience.
A4: Modeling/teaching concept of listening to understand not to respond. Common ground is imp. but not at cost of missing message.
Imp to eat class couture of respect and opened and est discussion norms w/Ss!
A4 cont.: Also, ask Ss to examine why they hold their current opinions. What experiences shaped them?
Yearlong. Sending off to UCOP for g approval this week. Then hope it goes thru site committees.
Very cool, I like this idea!
Oooh, my favorite grade level! Lucky you!!
Agree. Literature forms the basis for developing empathy; deeper understanding of human condition
I experienced 9/11 with my 5th graders my first year in my current district. Made for good discussions.
A1: A2: A3: A4:
There's also 🎥
specifically details 🇺🇸
Use of👮🏻+ MENtal🏥 to inflict TORTURE.
A4: we teach classes that are diverse. Use that to show, value, & highlight other worldly experience. Take the foreign out of it.
Good luck with the approval process.
A4: Start w/ classroom environment. When Ss don’t trust T or each other, very little will happen.
They are SUPERB. Resist urge to intervene too early when there is awkward silence.
A4: I’ve found that showing videos of world events-especially of kids their age-helps my students be more sympathetic.
I beg your😬pardon🍎
WHEN is systemic oppression + 👮🏻Violence righteous/justified?
This isn't the Military https://t.co/Jw6JWOIxpQ
Q3: How do we share info about topics like these (police violence, systemic oppression) w/ Ss without feeding them an opinion?
A4: Learn how to conduct brainstorming sessions without judgment. All opinions valued. Works great on interactive white boards
A1: Affirming student voice and asking for opinions is safe and legal. Give /them/ the mic and see what happens.
Great question. I bet this stumps many holding ill-informed opinions. https://t.co/6AOiyqyYmo
A4 cont.: Also, ask Ss to examine why they hold their current opinions. What experiences shaped them?
Lit and profile stories from news and orgs can help intro Ss to case studies
A4: Teach Ss multiple perspectives. Ech prsn is a diff hat (police, kid, protester, bystander, shopkeeper) https://t.co/r90NSws1ef
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Q5: How can we inspire and help students to advocate for others?
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Parents don't take offense to Ss watching kids their own age being shot, raped, pillaged? 😬🍎
A4: Good rule of thumb in controversial discussions with multiple students: Praise in public, but criticize in private.
a5) Show them the power of empathy & leadership. Start with small issues they can handle & show how they can help.
Have Ss prepare pre-disc. Soc. Seminar approach. Let S reflect themselves so prepared to share their experiences in grp disc.
I'm talking about natural disasters. I don't get into that with my 6th graders.
So important to remember that we teach students, not subjects.
A5: Model it advocate for them and for others. Show them the good that ppl are doing in the world remind them they can be the good
That must have been so impactful and memorable. For you and them!
A5: Lead by example. Ts need to be involved at school with a club or organization. Show Ss that you stand for something.
on controversial subjects don't criticize at all. Keep model. Remember the "house" wins if they keep coming back.
A5: Remember that you show them daily with your words and actions, not only when you tell them. Kids are too smart for BS.
A5: Motivation comes when Ss understand why its important to them and w/ specific things that they can do to take action
Current
TaylorSwift🎶15
🎥
Women choosing their own life partner is an🇺🇸issue.
It was! I still keep in touch w/many of my kids from that year. U can't share something like that and not be affected
You is kind, you is smart, you is important.
Thank you for clarifying. For a moment, iWas mortified.
Gotta go. Kid issues at home.
🙋🏻I can be booked to 🗣Speak about these kinds of issues + how to Teach Ss using age appropriate materials. 😬🍎
A5:Start elem Ss thinking inclusion/advocacy @ school How can we help peers w/special needs, bullied Ss https://t.co/rpzs5w7fRc
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Q5: How can we inspire and help students to advocate for others?
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A5: My school holds a community day twice a year. We spend the entire day doing activities and lessons to build understanding.
A5: Show, tell, act: Find someone to help, give students background info, and encourage/empower them to take action to help.
Start in their world first (school), go community, country then global. And they can go all way, if we believe.
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Q6: How can we help students to feel their voices matter in this area? Their experiences matter? Their ideas matter?
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A5: Model values not doctrine. Highlight change agents like Gandhi "You must be the change you wish to see in the world."
A5: Have Kindness on Campus day. Each class is assigned to another and they choose an act of kindness to do for the other class.
a6) wrestle with questions like these so they can wrestle with issue & see their voice does matter. Respect all points of view.
A6: Ss need the opportunity to express themselves in writing, speech, multimedia, etc. We must provide an outlet for them.
Ask about ur Ss. Check in with Ss. Go to school events. Celebrate Ss achievements!
A6: Make them matter! Take their ideas to school leaders/board/community. Help them to share their voices and then let them speak.
A6: create a positive classroom environment. Ss need to feel respect when providing opinions
🎥TheHelp is a really good🎥to discuss disagreements RE: Slavery in the 1960s. (for those who couldn't place the💬)
A6: Connect with other classes, educators, businesses, authors, etc... Connected kids = engaged kids. Make it meaningful.
Absolutely! https://t.co/SOoxHfeaoi
A6: create a positive classroom environment. Ss need to feel respect when providing opinions
Talk about issues when the Ss ask! Give time to their curiosity!
Yes, we no longer can have a world where kids have to wait to lead!
Create a safe classroom where Ss feel comfortable talking & sharing!
A6: Social media helps. Twitter, discussion boards, blogs. When Ss get comments from others&strangers really validates voice.
A6) Build character that has been taught and foster that environment. They will treat each other like a family if its encouraged
A6: Give Ss ways to work on projects and ideas they feel matter give them ways to share their voice/experiences/ideas.
Advocate for Ss when they have concerns and discuss how to take civic action.
Spot on. Let students explore the issues. https://t.co/Oq7b9MRSpV
Talk about issues when the Ss ask! Give time to their curiosity!
A6: Let them do projects and research that is reflective of their interests. = .
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Q7: How can we - Ts, Ss, admin - be loud about trying to change systemic racism and inequality in the US?
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Key! If their voice matters in life, make it matter in school.
A7: Don’t hide it: discuss, ask questions, invite guest speakers, encourage input.
A6: Create opportunities for sharing, connecting, publishing. Have them make short videos. See https://t.co/vCj8W0u1u0
A7: Keep talking about it, defend it and speak loudly. It is our job or nothing will change.
Discuss it and come up with ways to address it in class, school & Ss lives. Be a role model for Ss. Share achievements of various
I enjoyed hanging out with the great people of CA tonight & others who joined this imp. chat.
Thanks Great . Your integrity and passion for Ss comes through loud and clear. Keep pushing.
This was a great first time experience! Thank you all for your valuable input.
A7: start small. Build a circle of influence then expand it . Don't allow it around you, your classroom, your school, district, ..
A7: Keep talking about it, defend your lessons on it and speak loudly. It is our job or nothing will change.
thank you for a great chat tonight.
