#BFC530 Archive
The Breakfast Club β #BFC530 β is a 15 minute, 1 question Twitter chat every weekday. We chat in 4 timezones Mon-Fri β 5:30am Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific Times. The mission of BFC is to empower participants to make a difference in education by engaging in consistent reflective practice in a supportive community that inspires and challenges one another.
Thursday February 4, 2016 5:30 AM EST
Good Morning and Happy Friday Eve!!
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
It's a mystery. We'll find out soon, I guess!
Good morning friends! Connie from NY checking in - was 60 here yesterday. What the?? Isn't is February?
Happy Thursday .
Brian, HS principal from Mass.
Good morning, ! Chantell, Tech Director from IN here!
Hopefully you slept! πππ
Not trying to avoid! Life happening faster then ever plus this cold!
Good morning ! Angela, HS History from MA. Wow, I haven't been here for about 2 months!
Hey !
Welcome https://t.co/Hvw2kMio53
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
Battling with a cold, and the cold is winning. Meh
How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't &need to make a change?" https://t.co/7Q1qpPv08j
getting there. Anybody know our topic?
Uh-oh. Looks like some serious 15 minute self reflection today.
Hello my sleepless friend!
Great reflective question this morning! https://t.co/ixWC5IckRO
Hey !
Welcome https://t.co/Hvw2kMio53
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
I pay attention to the Ss. They let me know. 3rd graders don't hold back..at all. They are my pulse on how I am doing.
Great topic today! https://t.co/kzlcHx9ZHa
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
That's unfortunate...mine was pretty solid, after the previous two nights were less than stellar.
Good morning crew! David MS Principal from VA here. Happy Thursday everyone!
I like this question, but as with all things, let's take it with a grain of salt. A lesson that bombs is not "poor work." It's 1 day
I get feedback from staff about my performance and then reflect - really interested in what others do here
Good morning ! Tough questions today. Excited to reflect and see others' responses.
As an educator I believe I am always doing important work. If i'm effective is another story
Good for you! I think I get all revved up by the night chats
Newcomer here, looking forward to the conversation
It's all abt the Ss. If they are learning, I'm on the right track. If not, up to me to do something new.
Its Thursday-happy weekend eve, it's Cleteus from Virginia
In my job I constantly ask "Have I done anything to help instruction get better?" if the answer is no, I re-work my process.
Good morning, Angela - niceto see you!
Feedback from S's, other T's & admin. Also-I can just "feel" when what I'm doing is working & when it's not. https://t.co/QqMpjga3t5
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
Your work becomes important when you see resonate in unexpected places. It has reverberations beyond the initial push.
Sometimes the excitement is almost tangible when work is going well. Ss+Ts have more questions than answers! Possibilities abound!
good morning. Starr from NY. I know my work is meaningful when I see what my students can do and in the same vane when they can't
Welcome! this is a fabulous group!
No one takes attendance at , thank goodness! I'm on more this week because it's the start of a new MP & less to grade
I can tell by the energy in the room. When there is engagement & "brain sweat" I know things are working. If not, I revamp.
Feedback and reflection helps me- but sometimes I don't know the impact of my/our work until the next day, week, etc.
As educators, we are all doing important work. That work is acknowledged by students, families, and the community.
Good morning! Grateful for my health and the ability to make a difference and change the lives of kids each day.
The 'test' for me is the response of students to whatever learning opportunities I may be offering. I learn so much from them.
I have a staff who feels comfortable talking to me when they think I am screwing something up. They keep me on th path
Good morning dear friends!!
Feedback from colleagues and I also do a Monthly self-eval. I'm usually my biggest critic
sometimes I think something went great until we were doing some kind of summary activity and the students are missing the mark.
I have to remember that teacher effectiveness is my barometer for success, not teacher happiness. That's the hardest part.
Wow, Dan! I love this! Hope it's a beautiful day in NJ. Be well my friend:)
Change is needed when I get that feeling in my gut, the "why are we doing this?" rumble https://t.co/vCc024PI5J
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
A work of a pirate is never done.
https://t.co/qMQrGSSLbP
The 'test' for me is the response of students to whatever learning opportunities I may be offering. I learn so much from them.
brain sweat..I LOVE THAT!!
When the work starts to feel fake, your need to rediscover organic ways of making it meaningful. Sometimes it's just a tweak.
mid class sometimes I have to switch gears if it isn't work. Need to pay attention to the kids
For me, being an educator is always about improvement. Doing "good" happens, but we can always improve. Reflection is so crucial!
Import: seeing Ss being positive & learning. Ts having aha moments. Connection w former Ss..affirmation at https://t.co/0zeqUDdL1e
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
Good Morning ! Melissa 3rd grade teacher from CT!
When kids tell me what they do with lessons I T in the world. S recently told me how she bought a toy for a child as a bucketfiller
Yes- students and staff! - does your lesson or meeting continue after your "done"?
Yes- students and staff! - does your lesson or meeting continue after your "done"?
working in an elem. if your Ss are not answering you with hugs then somethings wrong
I love seeing my students commenting on each other's blogs; it shows the community of writers in my classes. The "big so what"
!! We fear it but we need it! From admin, teachers, kids and DATA! You can see exactly what students are grasping
For me, a good job means my Ss are working harder than me--their brains hurt by the end. If I'm building brains, it's a good thing!
By doing what anyone focused on continuous improvement does: ask for customer input w/ S reflections & surveys on how I'm doing.
at times it isn't till after the Ss leave our class or even graduate. So much of our work may be "long game" https://t.co/6zcZmOiCdW
Feedback and reflection helps me- but sometimes I don't know the impact of my/our work until the next day, week, etc.
Welcome to the best PLN around! How about some follows for ?
Good Morning!!! Debby from NY starting my day off right, with βοΈ
When my Ss are emotionally connected, talking, reading & writing on that topic =great work! Making a difference work.
I am actually listening to this right now!
Good morning, Stacey! I like the profile pic!!
Good morning everyone! Josh from NJ. Excited to share and learn this morning.
The level of student engagement provides me with solid feedback...and sometimes I just ask them when unsure.
Good morning. Cindy wishing you a great day from NC.
It's important to be reminded of the important work that we are doing. Feedback is so crucial https://t.co/R5yhUyQ4b1
I have a staff who feels comfortable talking to me when they think I am screwing something up. They keep me on th path
Often the case with passionate Ts! Don't be too hard on yourself! https://t.co/5gDOb56Nb8
Feedback from colleagues and I also do a Monthly self-eval. I'm usually my biggest critic
Mother Nature exercising prerogative. Vocab word for my Ss. ;) https://t.co/eXmpRKQ880
Good morning friends! Connie from NY checking in - was 60 here yesterday. What the?? Isn't is February?
I'm grateful for my Ss. In the last week I've had multiple encounters where they have reminded me to stick with Genius Hour.
I know I'm doing something well with my Ss when they use the skills or play 'school' and use the words I have taught them
Morning!Check out the Garden State Gafe Summit list of sessions and presenters! Amazing line-up! https://t.co/aV58jt9L2O
G'morning Lisa from central Florida joining in.
When teaching, I use drills as a way to check in on a project. "Draw a picture explaining where you are in this writing process."
I think that's 1 of the most endearing (and sometimes eyeopening!) factors in elementary - they say it as it is!
And sometimes I have to admit that what looks good on paper is just not right for my Ss. It gets thrown out if it can't be modified.
Thanks, Mandy! Good to see you in est!
Vow to be more awesome tomorrow. Not everything can be at your awesomest. https://t.co/V5OdUpib4f
When the work starts to feel fake, your need to rediscover organic ways of making it meaningful. Sometimes it's just a tweak.
The more choice and agency my Ss have, the better I feel as their teacher. The more standardization they/I feel...
yes neve discount direct Ss response, they are not shy about telling you how they feel https://t.co/H4I63m9meV
The level of student engagement provides me with solid feedback...and sometimes I just ask them when unsure.
I reflect on how my Ss feel in the cassroom. Do they feel safe to share out and take risks?
change is needed when I know I feel bored with I'm doing and I'm not growing anymore
I love using "big" words with my S's!
Hate when this happens, but thank goodness for continuous feedback! https://t.co/3RNAxsbPsv
sometimes I think something went great until we were doing some kind of summary activity and the students are missing the mark.
Exactly like it is..or it is all over their faces!
Trust your gut: it will tell you when it's working, when it's exciting, and when you need to change.
Open lines of communication, based upon trusting relationships, help a lot.
excellent response. There is an inmate feeling when everything has the right mojo and there are questions abound!
Good morning Breakfast Club! I had a colleague thank me this week for affecting higher achievement via efforts over the past few yrs
When Ss and families are happy, I know I'm doing good work.
absolutely. I'm just saying that I cant allow teacher happiness to be my rubric.
I like this analogy! Building brains is not an easy task...for the Ss or the teacher! /)
Absolutely. The power of why! I've abandoned many lessons.
It makes for a learning opportunity both for students and teacher. https://t.co/yd7kOfCpQK
sometimes I think something went great until we were doing some kind of summary activity and the students are missing the mark.
Good morning! Let's catch up soon.
Yes! That's when I say "this ___ isn't working. How do we fix it to meet this goal?" The Ss always push the limits.
I agree! I'm constantly reflecting but sometimes when I reflect I forget to celebrate what went well & look to change
I think I need to start surveying my staff. Quick, short and honest.
Data allows us to teach to the individual student and meet them where they are! It's amazing feedback when planning the next week
Wow, it's like you've been following me this week. Questions have been the topic of my week.
When students are telling you the difference you are making to them π got a happy note yesterday! Needed it...
Good morning, Good = seeing Ss grow. My job as admin is to provide resources/remove barriers for Ts πΆbc it's all about that growth
I know I need to change when Ss aren't "getting" it or we're all too comfortable
So many tasks in education are abstract. Its why i love the job, but maintaining effectiveness is not always easy.
Kids keep enrolling in r school. They come to the area & choose to live in r zone. We must be doing something right
Bingo if you can create that then the learning will come that's the order of things https://t.co/o0w0jld8fi
I reflect on how my Ss feel in the cassroom. Do they feel safe to share out and take risks?
I would love to get my Ss to this level.
You need to meet my friend . She taught me about Friday Eve:)
Awww! That's terrific! β€οΈ
Surveys in Google are very easy to make & roll data immediately into a spreadsheet for analysis. Great tool for feedback!
On the flip side, you know it's not working if SS aren't responding, or not in the way you've hoped
when u have built a level of trust so Ss & Ts feel free to voice their opinions then there are opportunities for growth!
I like the Growth Mindset statement of "Building Brains" from this morning. https://t.co/3LBHEiFRY7
For me, a good job means my Ss are working harder than me--their brains hurt by the end. If I'm building brains, it's a good thing!
You know you're doing important work when there is a buzz or problem when requiring ppl 2 change from status quo.
Reflecting important/impactful modelling on your part!
Yes! Fail lessons R opportunities 2 grow & reflect! We teach Ss this-must give ourselves same consideration! https://t.co/FfaY9fnlff
I like this question, but as with all things, let's take it with a grain of salt. A lesson that bombs is not "poor work." It's 1 day
Lessons also need to feel comfortable for you! You can borrow ideas from other Ts but taking whole lessons can make it not authentic
I love questions, from Ss AND Ts! Even the best PD leaves me w/more Qs than As!
Going to share this! https://t.co/jGEjFQN8U8
When teaching, I use drills as a way to check in on a project. "Draw a picture explaining where you are in this writing process."
Ss excited 2 learn & then share application, stories &feedback. Ss, Ps, Ts, Comm saying "thank u 4 your important work;don't leave!"
With all the new stuff thrown at us, sometimes I have to allow myself to say not yet.
We are kindred spirits. They come first. Period. We learn with them:)
the conversations, comments, facial expressions, jokes, questions and smiles remind me in doing good, important work
yes. We must listen to the many forms of feedback were given
Thank goodness there are no truancy officers π https://t.co/tmE8xdLqR8
No one takes attendance at , thank goodness! I'm on more this week because it's the start of a new MP & less to grade
when you see students not excited to get to class, walking around hallways, then you know something is wrong.
Smiles speak volumes! πππ
I know my work is important based on my philosophies. It's not just about content. It's about growing happy, well rounded citizens.
Who doesn't love happy notes! https://t.co/GApH3BJlgo
When students are telling you the difference you are making to them π got a happy note yesterday! Needed it...
Right! I've never understood the fear of data. Anything that I can use to inform the effectiveness of my craft is gold!
I think that what drives us each day - push those boundaries
Anybody else ever have admins suggest change just because? Drives me nuts. Should be purpose in every decision.
That's awesome! Happy notes are a wonderful thing!
Good morning Lori joining in late but I got my 5 mile run in!! Woohoo!!
Hi, Josie! Welcome! Best group of educators around. These people are family to me now:)
I have enjoyed seeing the pride in my Ts as they take risks and try new things! I love when they tell me about something new!
Morning, Craig. Great to see you.
Thanks Chris! I need to get better at reflecting and celebrating vs always wanting to change something
yes but how you teach it, use your strengths will mold it to you and become real https://t.co/Ni22nVy5yF
Lessons also need to feel comfortable for you! You can borrow ideas from other Ts but taking whole lessons can make it not authentic
You know you're doing important work when Ts & Ss r excited 2 get 2 the school and find it difficult 2 leave at the end of the day.
It's nice to hear comments such as "having happy students" rather than "getting good grades". True success. https://t.co/W2tZyN4Xbf
When Ss and families are happy, I know I'm doing good work.
I think an important part of this conversation is teachers conveying their standards to their administrators.
ABSOLUTELY! How can we help make it meaningful for Ss when we haven't processed it ourselves?
I have see Ts fear data because teaching is so personal, Ts fear feedback. But without it, we are ignoring students
that means you are already asking the right questions πππ»
When you get the groan or eye rolls, disengagement and you realize there has to be a better way. https://t.co/0RpoPM1unx
Change is needed when I get that feeling in my gut, the "why are we doing this?" rumble https://t.co/vCc024PI5J
G'morning! Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
Yes!! And that look like HUH? Tells me I need to try again
If I find myself veering away from the learning needs of Ss, gravitating to my own 'agenda'...time for a pedagogical move change.
And I'm looking forward to sharing it with my middle schoolers!
In always improving based on Ss ?s, stories & stats. Keep it fresh & fun! Smile!
Will do. Hope it's a beautiful day in Australia today:)
YES! If I don't understand a lesson I am supposed to teach, I don't. lol
Yes! Coincidentally, I just got an academic reference request this am from a S in college who graduated 2 years ago!
The blank stares I get when teachin some topics tell me i need to try agin
I know it's good when I do a lesson and next class comes in asking, "can we do that too?"
If I am hovering and helicoptering and worrying. Not good. That is the sign that it's time to switch strategies!
You know ur doing good work when Ts r taking ed risks 2 try something new 2 reach students & not afraid that admin will punish them!
I really like when I know the time it took to plan, be creative, think about the individuals all pays off
Yeah, that would be my grade change 2 weeks before school started. ugh
Evidence of good work is shown in the culture in the bldg.....Ss and Ts are purposeful in all they do
It's time for a change when I'm not smiling and I'm not having fun- that indicts to me a climate change in my classroom.
yes feedback is how we grow with out it it's wandering in the dark Ts just have to know who is providing it https://t.co/jUaRiCchrZ
I have see Ts fear data because teaching is so personal, Ts fear feedback. But without it, we are ignoring students
I always feel good when i have reworked a lesson from the curriculum to fit my specific students.
Teacher is excited to learn and to continue to explore that new topic. Up to the challenge of the quest. https://t.co/FfDy2jUVuD
Ss excited 2 learn & then share application, stories &feedback. Ss, Ps, Ts, Comm saying "thank u 4 your important work;don't leave!"
Yes! Whenever my work becomes more about me than about others, I know I have to reflect and give more
Easy to fall into using the Book presentations ... students don't buy into it anymore than the teacher ...
Excellent point. Getting feedback/data is one thing. Following through with needed change is another.
One thing that I am doing much more this year is pre-assessing and grouping based on the pre-assessment data I get
Good to have Ss willing to ask questions. Ts create this safe environment. https://t.co/1I3WPQxyCI
In always improving based on Ss ?s, stories & stats. Keep it fresh & fun! Smile!
I am good Melissa! How are you?!
or even just the zombie stare - the groan tells me something is going on but the vacancy, Ss may not even be on board
Running a little late but here!
Morning! I know work is imp when U can't stop talking a/ the subject.....U know the conversations that continue into the hallway...
You know you're doing important work when students are empowered 2 act as leaders in ur school w/ a voice and feeling valued.
Couldn't agree more, Chris! I try my best to share my sense of humor with my Ss. Laughter makes the world go round!
or when they're upset that you were absent & happy you've returned!
You know something is going right when your child returns happy from school everyday saying "I love school"
Think data is one piece but important to look beyond numbers to qualitative data like our observations of Ss
Lucky... Still on my wish pile!
's new feature lets ela/math teachers gather data on specific CCS standards. A great formative assessment tool!
Today's "How do you know you're doing good, important work? How do you know when you aren't & need to make a change?"
Hi , I'm Ku, Learning Coach, Argentina. Jumping in late, but love the topic.
I also use google forms and sheets for surveys.
Magic zombie juice comes in 4, 6, and 8 ounces. A spritz or two does wonders. https://t.co/330broUYUE
or even just the zombie stare - the groan tells me something is going on but the vacancy, Ss may not even be on board
I know I have succeeded is when Ps tell me their kid never used to read and now they love it! Makes my teacher heart happy
If things are stagnant or people are satisfied with the status quo then it's time to make a change.
Good day
Just came back from a Year 12 information night for my daughter.
Pumped with techniques
good morning from Atlanta. I know I'm doing good work when I'm facilitating and the Ss are having the "aha moments."
Yes! If you aren't enjoying it then no one will! So important to recognize https://t.co/16HqjD9v8b
It's time for a change when I'm not smiling and I'm not having fun- that indicts to me a climate change in my classroom.
Yes, when Ts feel secure in trying new techniques & letting me know if they need support. https://t.co/XWoByNspgT
You know ur doing good work when Ts r taking ed risks 2 try something new 2 reach students & not afraid that admin will punish them!
Yes! Otherwise you are confining yourself in the comfortable, where little growth & improvement occurs.
Good morning, Connie:). Hope you and our friends are doing great, too:)
I know good work is happening because of strong relationships - with ss, ts and the community. It's all about relationships!
scented and unscented? = )
We need Yr 5&6 classes in Asia to do sessions w/. If you can help please RT.
We need Yr 5&6 classes in Asia to do sessions w/. If you can help please RT.
I get the whole "data driven" push, but if I have to wait for an assessment to know my kids didn't get it, what am I doing in class?
Love that! Love catching Ss talking about books by their lockers.
Thank you for putting this into words for me. Sometimes it's just a feeling-I just know. https://t.co/f4COc4ioJx
It's time for a change when I'm not smiling and I'm not having fun- that indicts to me a climate change in my classroom.
Awesome when they come in excited and have been talking school in the hall on their time! https://t.co/tMeROzSC7m
I know it's good when I do a lesson and next class comes in asking, "can we do that too?"
It makes me smile from the inside out when S's have those "aha" moments!
I am good! Doing some bike riding at the gym while I follow !
You know you're doing important work when Ts r constantly bringing ideas & strategies to admin & sharing responsibility of results.
I know I'm doing a good job when people I respect take the time to tell me so. Do your colleagues a favor and speak up.
Check out yesterday's check in from me... No inspiration thereπ We all have our good days and bad days
Oooh I hadn't thought of that... ours is n the guise of just plain water. https://t.co/rRv9Aho8de
scented and unscented? = )
Good Morning! I didn't see you here! I am so far behind on the posts!