#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 September 22, 2016
It's 8pmET--top of the hour & time 2 let your true Fall colors come shining thru on ! Tweet it up ab making middle grades work!
8 pm Time to Follow as he guides on a Middle Level Journey
Introduce yourself and let us know you are here and ready to tweet about the middle grades
Todd here from Warren, MI 7th grade science teacher and Middle Level Advocate
Jay, Principal from Merton, WI ready to learn with the great PLN.
Tonight's brought 2U by the letters A, M, L, & E and the 16 Characteristics of an Effective School from This We Believe
Hello -- Dennis -- Middle School Principal -- Long Island, NY.
Amy, Gardiner, ME, 7/8th grade SS (18 yrs). First year participating in B.A.R.R., totally overwhelmed, but positive...
Good evening Jay! Glad you can join in
Hey, Dennis! How's the weather there? Heading to DC on an Honor Flight with my dad this weekend.
Glad you could join us tonight!
Hi Angela White here from Brisbane Australia, Executive Officer for Adolescent Success looking forward to chatting
Tara, 6-8th grade reading teacher in Davenport, Iowa
Glad you could pop in Angela
Hope everyone is off to a great start to the 2016-2017 school year
Hey Jay! Gorgeous days of late up on the East Coast. So happy for you & your Dad on the Honor Flight. Enjoy the experience.
Hello, ! Christie in Chicago, 7th grade math teacher, math dept chair, & soon an presenter in Austin! :)
Hello Dr. Nancy Sulla here; creator of ; author of and
Q1 is about 2 Fall your way, ! Time to branch out!
Let's start with introductions. This is Dru from Proudly serving the critical middle grades!
Hi Todd - hope all's well this new school year.
Good evening Christine Glad you can join in and Congrats on what are you presenting on?
I am lucky got to move up from 6th to 7th grade with an awesome group of Students: Rocking and Rolling this year
Great start in little ol' Merton, Todd. How about you?
Remember 2 put in yr answers & use A1 for Q1, A2 for Q2, and so on! And follow, retweet, favorite & reply. Let's do this!
Q1: Every student’s academic and personal development is guided by an adult advocate - soooo important
WWMS is off to a smooth start and ready for an awesome fall of learning
Checking in with some awesome middle level peeps in ! Craig from Central Ohio. Principal and kid at heart.
Q1. Which of the 16 Characteristics from This We Believe fr resonates w/ U the most? What RU working on at your school?
Hey Craig - hope all's well in Ohio!
A1: Responsive: Schools need to meet the students where they are! We need to respond to their needs:
a1: Educators use multiple learning and teaching approaches: We need to find ways to reach ALL of our students;
Suzanne here from Guilderland, NY ...6-8 literacy teacher.
Good evening Craig glad you could check in
a1: Leaders demonstrate courage and collaboration: our leader challenges us to improve everyday through collaboration and reflection
A1: Inviting, responsive, inclusive school. YAs are going thru so much change that we need to support them & provide a safe enviro.
A1 At the heart of it all: Educators value young adolescents and are prepared to teach them.
for sure. And, not just check in, but ALL in! Love the middle level experience for T's and S's.
Great to have a fellow NY-er here for . Welcome!
A1. Educators value YAs & R prepared 2 teach them: shows that YAs are valuable 2 the process & essential 2 the progress
Given I design Learner-Active, Technology-Infused Classrooms I would have to say active learning for students and teachers.
True: Valuing our students as learners and individuals is the HEART of being a middle level teacher
A1 Empowering- We need to provide opportunities for students to continue to push themselves in their learning.
A1) Adult advocates and educators that value them.
Q2: Integrated learning and heart-full teaching, kids want relevance and challenge rather than separate subjects
Yes! The invitational & inclusive aspects of middle level Ed R so vital! https://t.co/G1hguXFgmP
A1: Inviting, responsive, inclusive school. YAs are going thru so much change that we need to support them & provide a safe enviro.
Thanks Dennis, happy to be here and to learn from all tonight.
Tell me more! I want examples.
Yes!! Provide opportunities, model what it looks like, and guide them through the process.
and, we have to get to know them. Focus on relationships, the rest will follow!
Coming in late -- Ryan in Michigan, 6/7 Social Studies
A1: is working on the adult advocate via Fast Focus & Clubnections
Boom! So important. Ss in middle grades need 2 see themselves as agents of their own change. https://t.co/w8amIm56Za
A1 Empowering- We need to provide opportunities for students to continue to push themselves in their learning.
doing well. Busy, but well!
Hi All! Ellen from NE Ohio. MS T. A1 I second that emotion Ss need at least 1 adult there 4 them
Right on! What does that intentional PD look like at your school? Do tell! https://t.co/89tN8248iA
We have been very intentional with our culture. However, it's the intentional PD for the T's that has been most cri… https://t.co/SiSybZSvJ4
A1 I find myself investing in the leadership aspects of TWB. We must be intentional in our unwavering support of adolescent success.
Joining a little late, Kelli Martin, principal , Greenbrier, AR
Q2 for is on the way, edu-stars! Keep up the awesome conversation--we're going 2 break the Internet!
1. Friday Focus where we select a topic and T's come through and engage in convo. Send out Monday Q's to consider.
2. T's leading tech integration convos during "staff meetings". Sharing what works and what doesn't. Practical, applicable.
Seems like a cool way to help teachers grow! What % are engaged in ongoing convo?
Seems like a cool way to help teachers grow! What % are engaged in ongoing convo?
Sounds like an EdCamp or a smackdown. I like it.
3. Developing T leaders in rolling out our culture work. Having T's lead T's and bring in S's to co-teach student body.
I agree Craig, intentional PD is very important. We use collegial inquiry as PD - a time for T's to learn and collaborate.
Q2. What kind of teaching and learning works in the middle grades? How do U make sure it's working across the school?
A1: Empowering. We have to make sure our students have purpose to learn. W/o it, no buy in.
Now that sounds empowering!!! Kudos!! Gives me something to ponder...
A2: A diversity in teaching works in the middle grades: Students need to experience many different styles
A2: Our Admin does walk throughs with feedback to make sure teachers are on their game
first one had 85% of staff. Topic was "Rethinking HW". Next topic in 2 weeks is engaging parents in the process.
Thanks 4 being here, Kelli!! Glad U could join the tweet up!
A2 Choice and voice, collaboration and creation. Invite yourself into classrooms to see learning in action. https://t.co/FSVCzGTY5m
Q2. What kind of teaching and learning works in the middle grades? How do U make sure it's working across the school?
A2: In science class the students need to get dirty, do HAND-ON, engaged critical thinking learning
A2: Teaching that invovles a teacher who cares about the Sts & keeps them #1 when planning lessons, projects, & activities.
A2: Students need to be in charge as the teachers guide them towards their learning objectives
A2) Active, honest, collaborative, creative, critical thinking, raise the bar, Ss will vault over the bar!
Q3: Leading by example and being prepared to make your own learning transparent
Agreed!! They also need choice in how best to show what they know. Provide loose parameters and let them soar!
it's a trainer of the trainer model. Instead of me and even just the T's, T's are paired with S leaders to lead.
Great topics! There are great opportunities for discussion there.
Awesome! How do Ts respond 2 that feedback? How many see it as helpful & how many see it as hurtful? https://t.co/PRnHQYCV1T
A2: Our Admin does walk throughs with feedback to make sure teachers are on their game
So true: Many paths to showing knowledge... Have to give options
So true: Many paths to showing knowledge... Have to give options
and, we ask T's to submit topics for second semester. They have to own it too. And, they do!
For walkthroughs, I share my notes and include 2 statements. "I notice" and "I wonder". Great discussion starters.
Depends on the feedback: Ts all react in different ways: When done right it helps us grow! Relationship matters
Can students suggest topics, too?
Bravo! Love that caring was the first trait U listed. So essential 4 middle grades pedagogy! https://t.co/VbNOgNIzYv
A2: Teaching that invovles a teacher who cares about the Sts & keeps them #1 when planning lessons, projects, & activities.
A2: Hands on exploration. Providing opportunity to learn not just giving answers.
A2: started 2nd Chance Breakfast after 1st period this year
A2: learning opportunities that are active, creative, varied, and social
I assume that is for retakes, redoes and re-learning! Cool idea
We are working on Kagan Structures to help improve our social and engaged learning
Yes! Our most effective Ts are passionate abt teaching MS & genuinely care abt the Sts. Content is 2nd.
Q3 is right around the bend
That sounds encouraging! Sometimes second chances can be discouraging. I like the focus on building a relationship.
Need to pose questions that have NO right answers ...just answers that can be defended
Oooh! Would love 2 hear more ab that! I assume that it's more than extra waffles? https://t.co/Qia1vjuGXC
A2: started 2nd Chance Breakfast after 1st period this year
Great adjectives!! Yes, learning must be all of those things.
A2: Fitness options before school on courtyard instead of standing around (four square, baggo, jump rope, and more)
Q3. What kind of leadership works in the middle grades? What do you do to make it work?
Making a mess, you say? Grapefruit is messy when investigating problems cartographers face. https://t.co/VpAzDC6pju
A2: Health & pe teachers' Google Classroom for Ts with brain breaks, videos, & other resources
Love this, Kelli! Sounds like Active Schools would like 2 know ab this gr8 active program! https://t.co/uBTlmcRRLY
A2: Fitness options before school on courtyard instead of standing around (four square, baggo, jump rope, and more)
A3 Servant leadership. Must be ready to get down in the trenches & stand on front lines as a team. Model, model, model. Ss r looking
A3: Relationship, Passionate, Hearing leaders works in the middle
Q4: Involving the family from day one and encouraging mentorship within the community
Just getting settled &ready 2go a2 teaching that crosses the trad. content boundaries in authentic ways works 4 MLSs
I'm ready to grow some Ss leaders!! Your ideas are so motivational!
A3: For Sts--a leader who is visible & who socializes w/the Sts. All a part of the school culture.
A3: Allow S to lead in to their strengths, then get in the mix with the students and have fun.
A3: Leaders are the example ALL want to follow with shared vision and shared efforts
A3. Like TWBelieve says got 2B a courageous/collab leader in middle grades. Got 2 ask tough ?s & have no fear of tough answers!
Q3: distribute, distribute, distribute...to all shareholders
A3: Allow Ss to lead to their strengths then get in the mix and have fun with S while learning
A3: For Ts--Leaders who remember what it's like to be a T & leaders who think "What is best for the kids?" when making decisions.
awesome! Can always connect via email or GH if you need. Here to help!
A3 Great leaders seize every opportunity to collaborate & reflect in our daily practice. Invite teachers to join. Model it for kids.
A3 Leaders that support T's are crucial; from the new T's that lack experience, to the veterans that need a nudge to try new things.
A3 ldrship that empowers the greater community 2embrace the needs of the ML Ss in creating personalized educational experiences
And ensure that no one shareholder is holding more than their share https://t.co/CJUzMea2Af
Q3: distribute, distribute, distribute...to all shareholders
More in store with Q4, : How do you make family and community engagement work in the middle grades?
Hey . and I invite you to join us for chat on Tuesday at 7CST. Talking digital footprints w… https://t.co/M5Dm4UHs0s
A3: is the BEST leadership development around
A4: You meet them where they are! Sustain your efforts allowing them to be part of the TEAM
A4 Variety of communication tools, but the best way might be personal invitations from the students. https://t.co/n8FFJqaiCL
More in store with Q4, : How do you make family and community engagement work in the middle grades?
YES, students are our best connection to home!
Right on! Does this mean home visits? Community meetings at the housing complex? https://t.co/vn5S5xLQe2
A4: You meet them where they are! Sustain your efforts allowing them to be part of the TEAM
A4: is an impactful tool in our family engagement
A4: Reinforce to Ps that although their kid may be pushing away, the St still needs them & they should be invovled.
A4: We have monthly family events at our school and invite Ps to see their Ss successes.
It means what ever it takes: Home visits are needed in many places!
Yes! And do you mean students writing invitations 2 their own families 2B part of school? https://t.co/Llx1prZAfC
A4 Variety of communication tools, but the best way might be personal invitations from the students. https://t.co/n8FFJqaiCL
More in store with Q4, : How do you make family and community engagement work in the middle grades?
A4: Food, families love attending events that feature their CHILD and FOOD!
A4: Clubnections each have a along with connections to college field of study & career choices
Hey Paul! One of my favorite points to emphasize with adolescents is how well their teachers work with one another.
a4) GRMS went with the 6-8. Fam. contact day 1 & 20 kids I will have as my focus for this 2 yr. loop.
We must meet families where they are a4: creating opportunities for Ss and families 2 learn together can b powerful...
A5 we invite a local bank in to give loans to students as part of our SS economy unit.
Q5: if the middle years were a food it would be truffles - not everyone likes it but you can acquire a taste for it if you persist!
Food is always a deal maker with Ps (and Ts, too).
A4 Reach out to families, they want to be involved. Love the 6th grade Learning Cafe - Ps come in and lea… https://t.co/wx10qhq1FU
More in store with Q4, : How do you make family and community engagement work in the middle grades?
YEP, Our best event is Arts, Beats and Treats ... Band and Art show: Always a packed house
A4 have been thinking no cost bus trips on Sat. Morn with bag lunches 2 a local scenic or historic site 4 Ss & family would b kool!
A4: Best resource are my MS events. I go to lots and lots of events with . We engage with our parents. Listen.
I know that it's difficult for me to say "no" to my daughter.
We're in the closing stretch, edu-stars and heroes on ! Love the energy & awesome ideas being shared! https://t.co/ANgoyjhXJT
A4 Email parents with weekly curriculum highlights so they can ask children to tell more. Dinner conversation starter!
of my 3 kids my daughter always gets me to say yes! The boys now get her to ask for them
And parents can now see what's going on in Google classroom.
Q5 for my foodie friends & neighbors: If middle level education was a food, what kind of food would it be and why?
Are any Ts nervous/afraid ab that level of transparency? How do U coach them up ab that one? https://t.co/w9fo5b1yGn
And parents can now see what's going on in Google classroom.
A5: It would have to be a Grapefruit: when you are young it is sour but as you age you see its value and enjoy the taste
A5: A big bag of M&Ms. We all have our differences in learning, but inside we all have the same desire for knowledge.
That's a whopper of an answer, Jay! Thanks 4 serving it up w/ a middle level ed smile! https://t.co/F6RM3hK8bj
A5 A Whopper. Remember the jingle? Special orders don't upset us. We need to do our best to meet the various needs… https://t.co/rGOCvueJKY
Transparency isn't an issue. It's best to let families know what's going on. More responsibility on the students.
A5 was waiting 4 the food! Escargot- viewed as a delicacy they are quite extraordinary. If UR unprepared they might just be a snail!
A5 Culver's custard of the day because no two days are ever the same
A5: Cheater answer:A pot luck-everyone brings their own thing & you never know what you're going to get but it's always interesting!
A5. The food pyramid itself. Provide healthy learning options w/in a consistent, supportive framework. Can't B free4all buffet.
A5) Food you cook with your "family", even if yucky, you're present, making memories, having fun & learning.
Ooh, that's a sweet answer, Mr. Lisek! Bravo! https://t.co/DiLtVXS9eX
A5: A big bag of M&Ms. We all have our differences in learning, but inside we all have the same desire for knowledge.
The more parents know, the better. I'm there to help their child and they are too.
