#miched Archive

The #michED chat is a grassroots effort dedicated to giving teachers, students, and parents across Michigan a bigger voice in the conversation about education in our state. We welcome all voices through a variety of projects, media, and social networking. We’re trying to address educational issues through apolitical conversation, spreading ideas and stories of success from Michigan classrooms across the state, and helping teachers and students regain the courage to connect and demonstrate that schools in Michigan are creating amazing opportunities for learning. We want the face and voice of education in Michigan to be a mural of shared experiences and positive examples of connected learning.

Wednesday January 17, 2018
8:00 PM EST

  • participatechat Jan 17 @ 8:00 PM EST
    Participate in the upcoming #miched by sharing resources and collaborating at https://t.co/Y5iW4Lilye
  • MSUEquity Jan 17 @ 8:01 PM EST
    Hey #miched folks! Interested in learning more about how to be an educator committed to #equity? Come to @MSUCollegeofEd on Feb. 3rd to learn w/ @JDuncanAndrade! Registration for PD is available now: https://t.co/DLqYwiqaDA #MSUEOI #MSUPEJS18
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:01 PM EST
    Let's get this going, #miched. Welcome to the chat on curriculum and teacher autonomy. Please introduce yourself - where you're from and what you do. Here is the Smore with the questions for tonight: https://t.co/u5Xf7ZEU5v
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:02 PM EST
    Hi #miched My first time joining as I recently moved back to MI from Seattle. Not currently teaching. Living in Northville.
  • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:02 PM EST
    Good evening #MichED - I'm Ron, Ed tech consultant from @KentISD @REMC8 & @REMCAssociation - it's nice to see my colleague @csteenst moderating tonight. ✌️
  • msashburn Jan 17 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Gail Ashburn, South Lake High School Reading Specialist Thrilled for tonight #miched
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Miggity Matt Dogg - do'er of things, Kalamazoo area, #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:01 PM EST
      Let's get this going, #miched. Welcome to the chat on curriculum and teacher autonomy. Please introduce yourself - where you're from and what you do. Here is the Smore with the questions for tonight: https://t.co/u5Xf7ZEU5v
  • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:03 PM EST
    Welcome back to the mitten! Nice to have you with us tonight. #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Hi Gail. I am interested to get your perspective on this topic. #miched
    In reply to @msashburn
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Kathy Lester, East Middle School, Plymouth-Canton, School Librarian #miched #MISchoolLibrary
  • RebSYoung Jan 17 @ 8:05 PM EST
    Becca from Bay City, Saginaw ISD Literacy Coach. Excited to reflect on such a crucial topic with my #miched peeps!
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:06 PM EST
    Hi #miched - LIbrary & Instructional Tech Consultant #WRESA
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:06 PM EST
    Question 1 coming in a little bit. See the questions to prep your brains: https://t.co/u5Xf7ZEU5v #miched
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:07 PM EST
    Hi Kathy, it looks like we are neighbors, I'm in Northville. #miched
    In reply to @LibraryL
  • techsavvyed Jan 17 @ 8:07 PM EST
    Ben from St. Joseph checking in for #michED this evening!
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Ok. Q1: What is teacher autonomy exactly, and why is it important? #miched
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:08 PM EST
    Hey #miched Finally a free Wed night again!
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Hi #miched Joe from St. Joe - ed tech for Berrien RESA #BRESA
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:09 PM EST
    A1 When Ts are trusted and empowered to lead from where they are. #miched
  • KatQuain Jan 17 @ 8:09 PM EST
    Kathleen Quain, Principal at Morton Elementary in Marysville. It’s been awhile...but excited to be checking in! #miched
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:09 PM EST
    A1: I think it important that a teacher stay true to who they are. They won't be effective if they aren't. #miched
  • RebSYoung Jan 17 @ 8:09 PM EST
    A1: Allowing our amazing T’s to take what they have to teach and work their magic in how they do so. #miched
  • techsavvyed Jan 17 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1: Teacher autonomy is the ability for any teacher to provide unique interventions for students, coaching, and facilitation within the larger curriculum. #michED
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:10 PM EST
    Just for you! #miched
    In reply to @csteenst
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:10 PM EST
    A1: It is the freedom to do what is in the best interest of your students (while sticking to the big rocks as deemed by your dept/school) #miched
  • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:11 PM EST
    A1: We should let teachers be as innovative as they can be, to let them find the path that works best for them and their students. #MichED
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:11 PM EST
    I agree. Do you think that has limits, though? #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:11 PM EST
    #MichEd Teachers want autonomy to give students what they need to modify/enrich or even slow down based on their students' needs. Important because it is best way to support students.
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:12 PM EST
    Therein lies the rub, eh? Where is the line? What are the non-negotiables? #miched
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:12 PM EST
    I do think there are limits. A teacher has to be true to themselves but they need to make sure students are learning. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:12 PM EST
    I use to teach at Mt Baker High school in Deming!! #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:13 PM EST
    A1 - autonomy = freedom and freedom = the ability to take risks and fail #miched
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:13 PM EST
    This in turn has a profound multiplier effect on others. There are so many missed opportunities if we don't allow for this. #miched
    In reply to @ronhoutman
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:13 PM EST
    chris from Allegan, joining late tonight. I teach math. #miched
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:13 PM EST
    I can't speak for all but in our district, we have our course "Schoolcraft Standards" which are skill based. There are 8-10 per course. Nonnegotiable that you measure/assess them. What assignments you use are up to you and what is best for Ss! #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:12 PM EST
      Therein lies the rub, eh? Where is the line? What are the non-negotiables? #miched
      In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:14 PM EST
    I had to look up where that is, I'm sure it was beautiful there. I am missing the mountains! #miched
    In reply to @AnnSmart17
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:14 PM EST
    Right. How do you feel about schools requiring teachers to follow a guide - determining some or much of what is taught and when? #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock
  • msashburn Jan 17 @ 8:14 PM EST
    A1) Teacher autonomy is “Wacky, Weekly, Woozy Writing” in my class & all of the great ideas teachers work hard to plan and help facilitate the best learning. It is creativity, and individuality and of the utmost importance to driving learning for all, including educators. #miched
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:14 PM EST
    A1: Autonomy is not pacing guides where every similar class has to be on the same page on the same date. That does not work for students. #MISchoolLibrary #MichEd
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:14 PM EST
    This is where building strong relationships amongst each other is critical. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @mcculloughmg
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:14 PM EST
    It is definitely smart to stick with a shared vision, but have freedom within that #miched
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • OaklandELA Jan 17 @ 8:15 PM EST
    It’s hard to teach the written voice to teenagers. These 4 YA novels help. https://t.co/Z7o0S3TjxD #engchat #miched @nhslibrarylady @johngreen @getnicced @ibizoboi @soniapatel808 @NoviAcademics
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:15 PM EST
    I like that. And is there a defined set of resources: pacing guide, instructional supports, etc? #miched
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:15 PM EST
    We do as well. But I don't miss the rain. #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:16 PM EST
    That doesn't sit well with me. It is covering material, not making sure the content is learned. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst
  • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:16 PM EST
    Speaking of autonomy... Interesting to see that the "Common Core is dead at U.S. Department of Education" via https://t.co/PA5XyLYXQt #MichED
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:17 PM EST
    In case you missed Q1: What is teacher autonomy and why is it important? See all questions: https://t.co/u5Xf7ZEU5v #Miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:17 PM EST
    A1: Teacher autonomy is giving teachers the freedom to pick a curriculum to educate the students of their community. #miched
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:17 PM EST
    There is a base text for every course but you aren't stuck to it. We talk about sharing a pacing guide, assignments, assessments makes teachers lives easier but its not a MUST. PLC late starts and an amazing coach like me is always available :) #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:15 PM EST
      I like that. And is there a defined set of resources: pacing guide, instructional supports, etc? #miched
      In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:18 PM EST
    Yes. But the teachers in dept/school picked the rocks and put them where they wanted them. Current system seems to be--there is this boulder in your way. Work with it as best you can. #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock, @mcculloughmg
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:18 PM EST
    Yep. All kids have a right to know what expectations are for a course...but we cannot dictate what is best for each group of students to instruct/assess that. That is up to the artistry of a teacher! #miched
    • msashburn Jan 17 @ 8:16 PM EST
      Non-negotiables are what “keep us honest”
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:19 PM EST
    A1: Teacher autonomy flourishes where shared leadership lives. In a world of micromanagers, it is crushed in a culture of fear. #miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:19 PM EST
    Yes. Sharing is important. We don't work in a vacuum! #miched
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:20 PM EST
    Not in our district. There is freedom to teach/assess the 8-10 "Schoolcraft Standards" how teachers would like. We encourage collaboration for sanity and time savings but its up to Ts #miched
    • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:18 PM EST
      Yes. But the teachers in dept/school picked the rocks and put them where they wanted them. Current system seems to be--there is this boulder in your way. Work with it as best you can. #miched
      In reply to @KaelynBullock, @mcculloughmg
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:20 PM EST
    Let's shift to the other side of things. Q2: Curriculum can mean different things to different people. What does curriculum mean to you? #miched
  • IAmTheRayII Jan 17 @ 8:20 PM EST
    "slow down" no Tha KS #miched is in enough trouble as it is, the terrible place it's in is bc of these people and their ilk, I don't want them deciding what my children need. They already don't teach, but send instructions for parents to teach instead....
    • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:11 PM EST
      #MichEd Teachers want autonomy to give students what they need to modify/enrich or even slow down based on their students' needs. Important because it is best way to support students.
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:20 PM EST
    Hilarious isn't it.....wasn't ever alive there... its a state decided thing!!! #miched
    In reply to @ronhoutman
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:21 PM EST
    A2 - isn’t the curriculum just the book? #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:20 PM EST
      Let's shift to the other side of things. Q2: Curriculum can mean different things to different people. What does curriculum mean to you? #miched
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:21 PM EST
    A2: It seems like with a set of agreed upon standards (curriculum) teachers should have the freedom to get Ss to those targets. #miched
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:21 PM EST
    I think that is important for a system. Students having some consistency across classrooms is something I've lately realized the value of. #miched
    In reply to @techsavvyed, @KaelynBullock
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:21 PM EST
    A2: I had the ability to always create my own curriculum as a secondary reading teacher. But its defiantly not easy work! #miched
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:22 PM EST
    I completely agree with the consistency! Teach it how is works best for you and SS but we all need to end in the same place. #MichED
    In reply to @csteenst, @techsavvyed, @KaelynBullock
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:23 PM EST
    Are you playing devil's advocate? Curriculum is something everyone thinks they can define, but often they struggle to define it. #miched
    In reply to @jrommel
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:23 PM EST
    I can see that, but I hate to hinder a good thing for the sake of that consistency. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @techsavvyed
  • AliJane317 Jan 17 @ 8:23 PM EST
    A1: autonomy is important for giving educators the space to allow their personalities and individual strengths to shine. Just like we encourage our students, we should encourage the individuality of our fellow educators. #miched
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:24 PM EST
    Good evening. I'm (from Mid-Michigan) and I'm late to #MichED
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:24 PM EST
    A2: Curriculum is the resources you have to pull from to teach what is expected of and needed by you Ss. #miched
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:24 PM EST
    Same here. I basically established the curriculum in both of my teaching roles, and it was a massive challenge (also very rewarding) I would have loved something to work within. #miched
    In reply to @AnnSmart17
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:24 PM EST
    A2: Curriculum is based on the standards and provides guidance to teachers. #MichEd
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:25 PM EST
    Good evening, I'm Andrew (from Mid-Michigan) and I'm late to #MichED
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:25 PM EST
    I have created my own and rather than have something to start with, I would love someone to collaborate with #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @AnnSmart17
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:26 PM EST
    A2 - just what often appears in practice - I think curriculum is the locally agreed upon items to be taught #miched
    In reply to @csteenst
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:26 PM EST
    That's very cool. My district has had a free hand in selecting much of what we do and how we do it as well. I was thinking more about state level required course work or all 3rd graders "at reading level" or mandatory testing or... #miched
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A2: I like to think of curriculum as what students should learn in a given course of study. The structure and resources to support that can be considered part of a curriculum as well. #miched
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A2 - Curriculum "means" the content and practice designed to be learned during a course of study and the assessments that will be used to measure it. #MichED
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:27 PM EST
    Yeah. I'd love both. #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock, @AnnSmart17
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:27 PM EST
    A2: Curriculum= what you teach, why you teach it, how you teach it and how you assess it. #miched
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:28 PM EST
    A2 - Although, to be frank, I'm unfamiliar with curriculum "meaning different things to different people." #MichED
    • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:27 PM EST
      A2 - Curriculum "means" the content and practice designed to be learned during a course of study and the assessments that will be used to measure it. #MichED
  • OConnorAshlie Jan 17 @ 8:28 PM EST
    Hey #miched popping in to say hi and how disappointed I am that I can’t hang tonight. @csteenst loving the chat topic tonight! Looking forward to the @Storify @techsavvyed! Enjoy the rest of your week #MichEd😎
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:28 PM EST
    That is a common frustration I see in the lower el over the last couple of years. What can districts do to make it better? #miched
    In reply to @conrad_chris, @mcculloughmg
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:29 PM EST
    SIde note... this is being talked about tomorrow in Lansing ... you might want to take a stance and contact your legislator: https://t.co/SGWDhCNX6D #miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:29 PM EST
    As a math T much has started from "the book" as a starting point, but much of what I do happens beyond the book. We as a dept selected our texts because it fit how, in general, we wanted to proceed. We still have the freedom to branch out as we work towards team goals. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @KaelynBullock, @AnnSmart17
  • AliJane317 Jan 17 @ 8:29 PM EST
    A: curriculum is what we teach....but teachers can decide how you teach it. #miched
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:30 PM EST
    I posed the question at a presentation once, and got 12 different answers from 12 different people. We struggled to define it. Are assessments part of a curriculum or something different, for example? #miched
    In reply to @hs_math_phys
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:30 PM EST
    For Early EL in west mi...be part of @ReadingNowNet .... at least for the 3rd grade reading bill stuff... #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:28 PM EST
      That is a common frustration I see in the lower el over the last couple of years. What can districts do to make it better? #miched
      In reply to @conrad_chris, @mcculloughmg
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:31 PM EST
    Follow up question: Q3: Why is curriculum important? #miched
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3 - Because teaching is difficult. #MichED
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    Assessments let you know how your implementation of the curriculum is going, integral to success but I don’t think they are curriculum #mightbewrong #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @hs_math_phys
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3: Consistency for students. #MichED
  • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3: A solid, evidenced-based curriculum acts as the GPS for teachers and students to follow on the path to academic success. #MichED
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3 Curriculum is important so all teachers feel supported in the resources available for their use and expectations for their course. Transparency is important of Ts, Ss, and parents #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:31 PM EST
      Follow up question: Q3: Why is curriculum important? #miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    Districts, through their school boards, need to take a bigger state level advocacy role in fighting against laws and rules that are harmful to learning. #MichED
    In reply to @csteenst, @mcculloughmg
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    A3 It provides a structural framework that serves as a guide for learning. #miched
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
    I've seen documents like that, and I like the idea. The problem I see is when teachers feel overwhelmed having to develop plans for the choices they make.. This is where collaboration and resources are critical. #miched
    In reply to @msashburn
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:33 PM EST
    A2: Revised version: teachers should focus on the best ways to use curriculum to foster learning rather than designing it from scratch. #MichEd
    • richbacolor Jan 14 @ 5:22 PM EST
      Teachers should focus on teaching. I wish curriculum developers would build more cohesive standards aligned learning materials in all content areas that teachers could adapt and tailor to be place based, culturally relevant, and local.
      In reply to @gcouros, @kmgill135, @katiemartinedu
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:33 PM EST
    Yes, well stated! #michED
    • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:32 PM EST
      A3: A solid, evidenced-based curriculum acts as the GPS for teachers and students to follow on the path to academic success. #MichED
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:33 PM EST
    That's fair. Assessments aren't part of the curriculum, but still part of the process. #miched I like that.
    In reply to @jrommel, @csteenst, @hs_math_phys
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:33 PM EST
    What do you see as harmful? And how could it be better? #miched
    In reply to @conrad_chris, @mcculloughmg
  • techsavvyed Jan 17 @ 8:34 PM EST
    A3: Curriculum is important because it gives all teachers (brand new, veterans, substitute teachers, etc.) important waypoints and structures to help navigate learning. #michED
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:34 PM EST
    Assessment for learning is part of a good curriculum. Assessment of learning tells us about how the curriculum was enacted. #miched
    In reply to @jrommel, @csteenst, @hs_math_phys
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:35 PM EST
    MI needs to support school libraries and librarians, especially at lower el. MI is currently 47th in nation in supporting schools libraries & 46th in 4th grade reading. Students than need access to libraries the most typically don't have it. #miched #MISchoolLibraries
    In reply to @csteenst, @conrad_chris, @mcculloughmg
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:36 PM EST
    Thanks. I don't think we can argue the dictionary definition, but the way it's used and thought of is not always what Webster's says. Language is ALIVE! #miched
    In reply to @hs_math_phys, @jrommel
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:36 PM EST
    A3: Agree: Curriculum is important to give ALL teachers guidance and important benchmarks. #MichEd
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:37 PM EST
    Very true. I see teachers that move into new roles often struggle due to a lack of established curriculum and resources. #miched
    In reply to @techsavvyed
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:37 PM EST
    A3: Some curriculum thoughts from Grace Lee Boggs #michED
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:38 PM EST
    Good stuff #miched. Let's go deeper. Q4: How can schools best balance teacher autonomy and curriculum?
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:39 PM EST
    If I were a T moving into a new role, I would find it difficult to conform to the established curriculum #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @techsavvyed
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:39 PM EST
    But it would also be a nice place to start as long as I had freedom to adapt #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @techsavvyed
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:39 PM EST
    Yep. Hence the inherent tension here. That's part of why this is a great topic. #miched
    In reply to @KaelynBullock, @techsavvyed
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:39 PM EST
    1/2 Harmful annual tests that are used to measure schools rather than provide feedback for growth is harmful, "3rd grade reading level" tests (as implemented if FL) where Ss can only show this through a single test mandatory HS courses that ignore tech courses #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @mcculloughmg
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:40 PM EST
    A4; Time to work with colleagues to build and plan curriculum. #miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:41 PM EST
    2/2 Harmful con't Schools penalized when Ss don't graduate in 4 years (but not rewarded when they finish in 5) Fix Stop doing these thing. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @mcculloughmg
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:41 PM EST
    A4 - Set the expectations (standards) for student learning for the class/course - supply the basics needed for a teacher to reach these -- and then get the heck out of the way, only helping when necessary/asked. Trust trained teachers to do what is best for their Ss! #miched
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:41 PM EST
    A4: A culture of collaboration and focus on student learning should help to balance #miched
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:41 PM EST
    Use curriculum for guidance and benchmarks, but still allow Ts autonomy within that to innovate and to meet individual needs. #MichEd
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:42 PM EST
    Yes. It seems so difficult for schools to create this structure though, right? I think some fear that the time is not well spent, which can be true. #miched
    In reply to @AnnSmart17
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:42 PM EST
    A4 - I feel like curriculum serves to promote consistency. Autonomy exists to serve flexibility. The system will beckon for consistency. Individuals will beckon for flexibility. The balance comes in identifying the areas of need for each. #MichED
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    A4 - balance requires trust in T autonomy to deliver the curriculum in their way, and it requires that trust is rewarded through positive S outcomes #miched
    • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:38 PM EST
      Good stuff #miched. Let's go deeper. Q4: How can schools best balance teacher autonomy and curriculum?
  • msashburn Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    A4) By Training, retaining, and including the best educators to continue to develop and adjust curriculum to meet changing standards. #miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    A4: Balance comes from including teachers in the decision making process. Make the curriculum a framework that allows for teachers to experiment and grow within it. #miched
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    I like the balance in your reply. Is it fair to set deadlines/expectations to improve efficiency? Avoid the potential for teachers to "lollygag" when given planning time? #miched Asking for a friend. :)
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • AnnSmart17 Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    For sure. That is why expectations need to be set from admin and actions plans made from teachers. Expectation+Opportunity=Happy Teachers. #miched
    In reply to @csteenst
  • hs_math_phys Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    A4 - Use the curriculum to set the ends. Use the autonomy to set the means. And make sure the two are talking to each other CONSTANTLY. #MichED
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:43 PM EST
    You mean we teach to the test or the test defines the curriculum? #MichEd
    In reply to @hs_math_phys, @jrommel, @csteenst
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:44 PM EST
    A4: Agree @AnnSmart17 Ts need time to collaborate, share best ideas, and work on curriculum #MichEd
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:44 PM EST
    the system needs an expected destination. the teacher needs to pick the road. #miched
    In reply to @hs_math_phys
  • jlbowling Jan 17 @ 8:44 PM EST
    A4 Include Ts voices in the conversation and make time for collaboration. Think differently and be open to new ideas. #listen #miched
  • VogelWendi Jan 17 @ 8:44 PM EST
    A4 A little late to the party, but a curricular resources to follow is key, esp when asked to do mulitlple dim like math and sci. Ts are master tweakers! And they should tweak based on FA. #miched
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:45 PM EST
    Right, and aren't Ts held accountable for the road they choose? #miched
    In reply to @conrad_chris, @hs_math_phys
  • AliJane317 Jan 17 @ 8:46 PM EST
    A4: I think it’s important to have some continuity across classrooms and grades so students are prepared to move forward successfully. content standards should be met, and similar vocabulary used so students can build from a solid base #miched
  • conrad_chris Jan 17 @ 8:47 PM EST
    One should start with the outcome in mind: what do I want my students to know and how with they show it? Curriculum is designed to do that. "Teach to the test"=we focus on the standardized state test and only teach exactly what's there. There is so much more to do. #miched
    In reply to @richbacolor, @hs_math_phys, @jrommel, @csteenst
  • KaitPopielarz Jan 17 @ 8:47 PM EST
    Yay! Hey, Kelley! #ClearTheAir #MichEd
    In reply to @KellCusmano
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:48 PM EST
    This is also about equity. An established curriculum (lessons, materials, pedagogy) could level the field and still be adaptable to local needs. #MichED
    In reply to @csteenst, @KaelynBullock, @techsavvyed
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:48 PM EST
    That is an important point. Much time and effort has been spent on vertical alignment, and most districts struggle mightily with that. #miched
    In reply to @AliJane317
  • VogelWendi Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
    I would maybe clarify that it isn't what Ts want Ss to know, but what the standards based on research say they should and can understand/know. Curriculum (and the resource) should do this. It doesn't always. #miched
    In reply to @conrad_chris, @richbacolor, @hs_math_phys, @jrommel, @csteenst
  • jrommel Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
    Teach with the test (learning targets) in mind #MichED
    In reply to @richbacolor, @hs_math_phys, @csteenst
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
    Q4 again: How can schools best balance teacher autonomy and curriculum? I'd like to hear more on this. Q5 coming up. #miched
  • ronhoutman Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
    Why is this though? Too much churn in leadership? Chasing initiatives (shiny object syndrome)? Time? #MichED
    In reply to @csteenst, @AliJane317
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
    Yes, I came from a setting where I was the SS teacher 8-12 so I took for granted the common language #miched
    In reply to @csteenst, @AliJane317
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:51 PM EST
    The outcome shift I’d like to see is more “figure out” and less “learn about”. I am not interested in kids who can multiple choice. We need more competent problem solvers. #MichED
    In reply to @conrad_chris, @hs_math_phys, @jrommel, @csteenst
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:52 PM EST
    Sounds like me :) Key is the point we can't treat all the same, or punish all b/c of the missteps of a few (kids or educators) #miched
    • AliJane317 Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
      I think @mcculloughmg is just saying admin should provide the tools necessary for teacher success, but also trust that trained educators will make things happen. Our students grow and learn best when we allow some freedom, and many Ts are the same. Close, @mcculloughmg ?
      In reply to @csteenst, @mcculloughmg, @mcculloughmg, @mcculloughmg
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:52 PM EST
    I have seen disagreement and blame between grade levels. That is where leadership is critical. #miched
    In reply to @ronhoutman, @AliJane317
  • VogelWendi Jan 17 @ 8:52 PM EST
    I'm stealing Ron's phrase. I'll give you credit when I use it. Shiny object syndrome. Love. #MichEd
    In reply to @ronhoutman, @csteenst, @AliJane317
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:53 PM EST
    Exactly, and even the standards aren't always written in a way to best teach/layout that road. That's why T autonomy is necessary to redraw a better map for their kids...as long as they get to the same destination. #Miched
    • VogelWendi Jan 17 @ 8:50 PM EST
      I would maybe clarify that it isn't what Ts want Ss to know, but what the standards based on research say they should and can understand/know. Curriculum (and the resource) should do this. It doesn't always. #miched
      In reply to @conrad_chris, @richbacolor, @hs_math_phys, @jrommel, @csteenst
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:54 PM EST
    Alright, last question of the night: Q5: What is needed for teachers to collaborate and implement a curriculum effectively? Let's finish strong #miched.
  • richbacolor Jan 17 @ 8:55 PM EST
    Going to play on that idea a bit. So, I do, We do, You do ? Does that work for higher order thinking too? #MichEd
    In reply to @hs_math_phys, @conrad_chris, @jrommel, @csteenst
  • LibraryL Jan 17 @ 8:57 PM EST
    A5: Ts need resources, training, time to collaborate, and some space to innovate & have choices within the curriculum. We advocate for Student choice; Ts need some as well. #MichEd
  • KaelynBullock Jan 17 @ 8:58 PM EST
    A5: I do think instructional coaches help teachers find that balance between curriculum and autonomy #miched
  • VogelWendi Jan 17 @ 8:58 PM EST
    Some T automony. Not, full. Aren't u worried that on top of instruction, you will then be asked to be curricular resource writer? That is a full time job. When are you doing that? And how do you test it's working? Focusing on instructions, not writing makes sense to me. #miched
    In reply to @mcculloughmg
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:58 PM EST
    Yep. Most teachers don't have opportunities to explore outside of their grade level/content area, much less understand and integrate with others. #miched
    In reply to @AliJane317
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:58 PM EST
    A5: Job-embedded PD, Late start PD time which models PD on good instruction, PLCs and coaching on best practices. #miched
  • csteenst Jan 17 @ 8:58 PM EST
    What is a good collaborative structure? Early release? PLC time? What works best? #miched
    In reply to @LibraryL
  • msashburn Jan 17 @ 8:59 PM EST
    A5) TIME! isn’t that what will solve the world’s problems. Time and methods to collaborate across grade levels, buildings, districts, counties, etc and TRUST from legislators, parents, administrators that #teacherleaders know what they are doing what is best for kids!. #miched
  • mcculloughmg Jan 17 @ 8:59 PM EST
    Yes and no. OERs are honestly making curricular resources ubiquitous in many cases. #miched
    • VogelWendi Jan 17 @ 8:58 PM EST
      Some T automony. Not, full. Aren't u worried that on top of instruction, you will then be asked to be curricular resource writer? That is a full time job. When are you doing that? And how do you test it's working? Focusing on instructions, not writing makes sense to me. #miched
      In reply to @mcculloughmg