#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 October 20, 2016
It's 8pmET & time 2 take U out 2 the ballgame! Step up 2 the plate & swing 4 the fences as we celebrate Assistant Principals!
Hello:) Jacqueline Hanlon -8th Grade ELA teacher from Somersworth Middle School! I love my AP; he is the best!
good evening, - michael from columbus ohio - middle division teacher
Hi! I'm a middle school math & SS teacher & math dept chair in suburban Chicago.
Hello! Kristi AP from BCPS
Giddy'up AP from FWISD with new set of red pumas. https://t.co/pEhRk2w71Y
It's 8pmET & time 2 take U out 2 the ballgame! Step up 2 the plate & swing 4 the fences as we celebrate Assistant Principals!
Todd from Warren, MI 7th grade science teacher Hope to see into the toughest job around MS AP we have a great one
Let's start swinging the bats at by doing introductions! This is Dru fr MS/HS ELA/R/SS teacher & middle grades AP 4 six yrs
Joli from NW Arkansas! 8th ELA/SS!
Happy Thursday! I'm going be joining tonight !
Hi I'm Jeff Mishoe, Assistant Principal from Heritage Middle School, Colleyville, TX
Danny from NY Las Vegas and now FT Worth. 5th yr as AP 13th in education. https://t.co/whmhrj3HZm
Let's start swinging the bats at by doing introductions! This is Dru fr MS/HS ELA/R/SS teacher & middle grades AP 4 six yrs
Walt from Macomb County, MI
This is Liz from SW Virginia
Congrats on the fresh red kicks, ! Sport 'em like a boss! https://t.co/AjXxNMgRFH
Giddy'up AP from FWISD with new set of red pumas. https://t.co/pEhRk2w71Y
It's 8pmET & time 2 take U out 2 the ballgame! Step up 2 the plate & swing 4 the fences as we celebrate Assistant Principals!
Glad you can join in Danny
Thanks for stopping in Liz
Brian Bussiere 5th & 6th grade math teacher at Epsom Centeal School in NH checking in!
I'm John Burns, first year as a middle school assistant principal
Awesome Marissa Glad you can join in
Great to have you join in John
First time user. AP from Baltimore County public schools
Scott proud MS AP Warren MI.
Kenny Ward Principal Oklahoma
I'm John Burns from Rhode Island, first year as an middle school AP and loving it
Hi Brian, ELA Teacher from Salisbury, MD
Hey Everyone, Brett McCann taking part in my first chat. First year AP for the near the "City of Champions" aka Cleveland
Great you could join in Kenny, Love your insights
B4 we get 2 the Qs, the rules 4 the ballgame: use A1 for Q1, A2 for Q2, etc and 4 all responses. Retweet, favorite, reply, & follow!
tuning in from West Virginia I work in a 7-12 school.
Thx 4 joining up w/ the tweet up, Brett! https://t.co/WB7ORhYXQv
Hey Everyone, Brett McCann taking part in my first chat. First year AP for the near the "City of Champions" aka Cleveland
Sure are... The join to discuss articles about once a month
Welcome John & congrats on the promotion!
Hi ✨ Marlena jumping in from the hills of Tn...well the suburbs!😉 Excited to dive into the importance of APs!
Hey Marlena Hope all is well!
Amy- Lovin' Life as a Middle School AP in Central FL. Year 3!
Glad you could join in Amy
Here comes the 1st pitch/question 4 Q1: Why R Assistant Principals so valuable 2 a middle school? What magic do they provide?
Hey my friend! Life is amazing!
Elated 2C so many awesome edu-stars here on 2nite! U all rock!
A1: APs are the relationship police finding balance in buildings: Help work out the issues that might occur in MS
A1: bringing school vision to life. In the trenches w/Ts and Ss.
APs are the CNS to the school. We support @ all angles. Ts Ss Ps you name. https://t.co/Ys0uipdGL3
Here comes the 1st pitch/question 4 Q1: Why R Assistant Principals so valuable 2 a middle school? What magic do they provide?
year 3 for me as well. Hopefully we can share some "magic!"
A1: MS APs provide the glue between teachers, students, parents, and district admin
A1 They help set the tone of the school and advocate for students, faculty/staff, and community stakeholders. My AP is awesome.
A1: APs are the ears that listen attentively to calm excited personalities ...
Hey, ! Jordan from MI checking in - 8th grade ELA.:)
A1: APs Greet you at the door with a smile, being FIRM and FAIR setting a building tone
A1: says APs who understand and R commited to kids help provide boundaries in which SS explore
A2 Always remember you were a teacher once. Don't get amnesia!
A1: APs r the cns to the school. Support all Ss Ts Ps Ps
A1: APs are truly the first line of defense, helping to ensure that all Ss - and Ts! - feel safe and supported.
APs definitely protect & serve in the middle grades! https://t.co/5QPEr1NsVh
A1: APs are the relationship police finding balance in buildings: Help work out the issues that might occur in MS
A1: They talk w/the kids who make mistakes & end up "in the office". APs can help kids reflect & make good choices in the future.
A1 - The "magic" is being able to clarify teachers intentions to students and parents.
A1: APs are like Sherlock Homes seeking to solve all the buildings mysteries ... Finding missing items etc
A1 Firm and fair all while maintaining relationships https://t.co/bkq3TTfPlk
A1: APs Greet you at the door with a smile, being FIRM and FAIR setting a building tone
Bingo! APs make the vision of the school a living reality. https://t.co/99el0Whku0
A1: bringing school vision to life. In the trenches w/Ts and Ss.
A1Admin As a team works better. Always nice to have at least 2 personalities to reach more MS kids! Now I just need an AP!
Absolutely! APs are the balm to the turbulence that accompany MS development.
A1: APs are like the Older Brother/ Sister before you get to Mom or Dad-they offer staff guidance & allow for u to learn w/out eval
And heard! https://t.co/7KaHrgW23j
A1: APs are truly the first line of defense, helping to ensure that all Ss - and Ts! - feel safe and supported.
A1: The ability to interact and be a bridge between the "trenches" & upper administration is key. Have a great pulse of everyone
Sorry I am late. Lurking tonight, just finished dinner! Been cooking with super yummy.
Gr8 point! APs do have that magical power--a decoder ring 2 bring understanding between all stakeholders! https://t.co/9YyfCLoxHh
A1 - The "magic" is being able to clarify teachers intentions to students and parents.
A1: APs are the calm in the eye of the MS storms
APs responsibility & opportunity to retract are critical to adolescent development.
A1: APs are the eyes and ears of the climate but also the working hands of the P to help make the mission and vision reality!
A1: Student behavior and support. Knowing our Ss and helping them get on the right track before problems get out of hand.
A1. APs have an immeasurable value bc they R out there in the field, cultivating, digging, measuring, growing relationships
A1: APs are the glue which holds administration together. Always holding multiple hats and needing great flexibility
A1 - The value of being able to shut the door and seek to understand can never be underestimated.
Woohoo!!! Colleen is here!
We hv to be in the know to provide the know. With stakeholders. https://t.co/pEBE1RH4IT
A1: APs are the calm in the eye of the MS storms
thanks, happy to be here!
A1 more: Responsive/Proactive APs also can buffer Ts from volatile situations so they can focus on teaching & learning
Keep on hitting this question out of the park--just like the Cubs are doing against the Dodgers! Q2 is on the way!
I agree relationships help build the school to be the best
So critical. RTI, restorative practices, etc. come with a full tool belt to help BUILD all in the school https://t.co/favl1hjoi9
A1 more: Responsive/Proactive APs also can buffer Ts from volatile situations so they can focus on teaching & learning
that score last night was crazy!
A1: Good APs can provide the consistency MS students need & the positive connection they desire.
Here's Q2 for : What advice would U give some1 who wants 2 become a middle grades assistant/vice principal?
A2: Be patience, Seek to understand the WHYs, Remember your WHY! and You are doing this because you love KIDS!
A2: Hone your listening skills, listen first then lead
A2: Never forget the importance of relationships. With Ts and Ss.
Listening is key for all of this in the middle but especially those that lead
Couldn't agree more . It's one of the most important aspects of being an AP! https://t.co/NhxwIgO1d0
A1 more: Responsive/Proactive APs also can buffer Ts from volatile situations so they can focus on teaching & learning
A2: Always get to know your students. They are counting on you to make their educational experience a great one.
A2: Ask to shadow your AP, watch and LISTEN...its important in the role of AP
A2 maybe obvious but 1st and foremost you must have a passion for the middle years. Those who don't have passion will not remain.
Doesn't it all come down to Relationships in education? Students don't care until they KNOW you care
A2:
Focus on relationships.
Be firm, friendly, & fair.
Find a trusted friend you can vent with.
Grow thick skin.
A2: Connect with MS APs every chance you can- shadow their day- Volunteer for projects to see the coordination side, too.
A:2 come to be even more involved w/ teaching and learning & w/ Ss and Ts. The radio and badge do not matter.
a2: remember your roots - you were a 7th grader before - remember what it was like.
A2: No matter where the AP came from before, she has to commit to learning what makes YAs tick and how to help them thrive
A2: Breath, and step back at times. Learning in year one it goes from 0 to 60 in no time flat. "Be quick, but don't hurry"
Thick skin or remember to wear armor!
A2: AP is more than just discipline job, or paperwork job, it's a juggling act-cheerleader-inventor- magician-it's a Life- be ready
A2: Must have - good listening skills, tons of patience, a good sense of humor, thick skin & an amazing poker face.
A2 cont: My school@offers a Preparing Potential P Program P^4. Ts get a chance to shadow and special PD to show insights.
Yes!!! Especially during the crazy middle years. SO important. Everyone deserves to feel respected and valued.
SO TRUE take time to ENJOY the MIDDLE so much to celebrate: HAVE FUN with students
A2 Find a mentor with a mantra of "my goal is your success" (Flippen Group). Authentic mentor/mentee relationships are invaluable.
A2 Understand how to form & leverage relationships in order to convince the MS kids that they want to do what we need them to do.
It helps to have experienced people to go to for advice for sure!
Had not thought of armor as an option . . . but that would do the trick.
A2 have fun!! Dab and bottle flip with the students! Enjoy the middle!
A2: For any leadership role: Remember that the right decision isn't always the popular one.
A2. Get out there in hallways, classes, cafeteria, etc. Even when U have paperwork, phone calls, to handle. B visible
A2 - Know your why and the why must be for a passion for S's. Not just teaching and learning, but for connecting and inspiring!
and the life doesn't leave u. Your classroom will become the building.
Boom 2 that, ! What kind of support did U need from your AP when U were in middle school? https://t.co/g8sVKd6jDO
a2: remember your roots - you were a 7th grader before - remember what it was like.
This is the crux of education that we know if critics but should redouble our efforts in building.
A2: it isn't about power. It is about power of influence. Watch and learn.
A2: You must be seen to be heard. Be present!
I agree !...except for the bottle flipping :) https://t.co/Izp8YYXF3V
A2 have fun!! Dab and bottle flip with the students! Enjoy the middle!
I'm all for bottle flipping, as long as it is outside :)
Yes! Easy 2 get trapped in the radio, keys, and badge--when it's all about the Ss, teachers, and families https://t.co/wW6B2arjzM
A:2 come to be even more involved w/ teaching and learning & w/ Ss and Ts. The radio and badge do not matter.
Yeah flipping is done, there is an APP for that now!
A2: know what u want 2 accomplish. A great T would help Ts in class, but on other hand, administrating is not teaching.
I think this applies to any managerial position in education.
Come on Scott you saw my FLIP
30 Mins Til TONIGHT 8CST
Topic: How does Politics/Legislation Impact Education?
Bingo, Dru. That is the recipe of the 3b AP. Butts buses and books. https://t.co/BS800Enqhm
Yes! Easy 2 get trapped in the radio, keys, and badge--when it's all about the Ss, teachers, and families https://t.co/wW6B2arjzM
A:2 come to be even more involved w/ teaching and learning & w/ Ss and Ts. The radio and badge do not matter.
I bottle flipped as my 7s counted in Spanish. Got to tres!
A2: I guess LOVE kids and be able to articulate vision & philosophy in 1 sentence each so I know as a T what u want.
Hello all! How do you adjust to criticism and learn to have thick skin? Does it come over time?
Batter up for Q3 ! What R the most rewarding & challenging aspects of the middle grades assistant principalship?
Awesome advice! We all have more than empathy because we've experience these pivotal yrs!
How about just wear shoes made for walking because you will do a lot!!
A3: Challenges: Finding a home work balance: Our AP lives at school ....
This is the crux of education that we know is critical and should redouble our efforts in building.
A3: Challenges you deal with the most difficult students frequently... Reward: You see them improve and SUCCEED
Balance is key to longevity as an AP! Have to remember they have lives too!
Middle years Ss are hilarious! That's the best. Challenged by the bigger things(peers, emotions, puberty)
A3 Rewarding-Helping ss. be ready and eager to learn everyday...knowing my time and energy are never wasted
A3 Can be hard to get involved in the positive. Must be purposeful in finding ways to be positive with the kids! All of them
A3: Rewarding is helping a student change his trajectory & get on the right path, because the discipline process should teach.
Fitbit is a must for a MS AP .. IT should be on their data wall and evidence for their evaluation
yes but also confident in you are always doing what is best for Ss! Willing to admit if wrong and stand firm when right
A3: It must be challenging to know that 99% of the parent/students/teachers contacting you aren't bringing good news.
a3: bringing the positive when so much of the day is 'problems and issues'. have to remember Ss WANT to do well
A3: Challenges: Not taking work home, getting wrapped up in school politics. Rewards: Seeing students w/ big smiles on their faces.
And the mic is dropped . Perfectly summarized. https://t.co/KgzXQQIjgP
A3: Challenges you deal with the most difficult students frequently... Reward: You see them improve and SUCCEED
A3: truth? Becoming too good that u become trapped. Your individual goals shld still matter. APs want to become Ps. Allow tht
A3: Challenging is the frequent fliers, who just don't get it again, & again, & again . . .. Hard to remain positive.
it's about a personal system& knowing what you stand for and why- give yourself the same advice you would a S-
A3. Challenge: tough talks w/ marginal Ts & staff who don't inspire. Reward: working w/ amazing Ts, staff & Ss who R on fire!
It's difficult to achieve balance when passion lies at home and at work.
In both cases - finding time for instructional leadership and pointing to the "positives" in our learning community
A3: find the power in positivity. Let your Ts and Ss know you as u did in ur classroom. Same w/ parents and community.
A3: I think a big challenge is dealing w/ current events & their impact on students & faculty alike.
A3: Challenging is when you get stuck in the office with fires over getting out in the school
Allowing and helping people grow is a must! https://t.co/hHNNYWbBl9
A3: truth? Becoming too good that u become trapped. Your individual goals shld still matter. APs want to become Ps. Allow tht
a3: rewarding - being able to set the standard for culture and communication. lead by example
Best: Relationship building with kids, especially the rough ones who need additional support.
Challenge: Sixth. Grade. Transition.
A3: Another challenge can be supporting staff when you question a decision they made. Have to be supportive & then do some coaching.
Exactly. We shld all be growing leaders to replace us. Leaders of all types. https://t.co/JvoTNelypa
Allowing and helping people grow is a must! https://t.co/hHNNYWbBl9
A3: truth? Becoming too good that u become trapped. Your individual goals shld still matter. APs want to become Ps. Allow tht
Let's set that fire ablaze!
A3: balancing needs of high fliers and T discipline demands. https://t.co/v6cQZAypEb
A3: Challenging is the frequent fliers, who just don't get it again, & again, & again . . .. Hard to remain positive.
A3: Making a dfrnce for Ss every day- bridging the gap- brings me daily joy! Stress: balancing life and shouldering icky S realities
Student realities can definitely be quite icky!
Truth! https://t.co/TT2qUCGmj9
A3: truth? Becoming too good that u become trapped. Your individual goals shld still matter. APs want to become Ps. Allow tht
A3- Doing what's best for S's and T's even when it's not a popular decision.
Question 4 is heading right up ...
Pitching out Q4 for : What's one "must do" strategy that U use as an Assistant Principal 2 connect w/ Ss and Ts?
A3: Ch-navigating through bazarro-land &the days straight out of TwilightZone,Reward:You get to create the best world for Ss&Ts:)
A4: MUST DO: SMILE, Ask question Listen, Breathe respond
Q4: be visible and present. Not negotiable. Period. https://t.co/YZP3Jh664j
Pitching out Q4 for : What's one "must do" strategy that U use as an Assistant Principal 2 connect w/ Ss and Ts?
Can know what is going on unless you are THERE
Listening is very important and builds the basis of all relationships
A3: accept that your work (written work) will not get done during the school day.
A2: Don't become AP as a stepping stone. U may never become a P and these kids deserve your best to make a difference in their life
NOW that is just like a teachers day
SOME are perfectly made to be APs ...
A4: it is ok to say, "I don't know". The key is return with an answer. We don't know it all in leadership. That's why we hv
Be genuine, be respectful and make decisions and have conversations that maintain dignity for both T's and S's.
A4: Must do for ss and ts-talk to them...I joke around w/ them and am serious when I need to be...relationships matter
A4. Enjoy cafeteria duty: walk around & talk 2 kids. Stand in hallways during transition times--right in the middle of the stream
A4:Be present! Listen, find the positive, and ask questions. They don't always want you to solve their concerns/problems
A4 Must truly care about the kids, especially the at-risk kids. They can see fake from a mile away.
Be the positive-connecting light in the halls and throughout the building. Lead by example.
A4: Be visible and be ➕. There's a misconception that the AP has to be the "bad guy"; you can have ➕ interactions 95% of the time
Especially for your Ts. We always shld build future leaders. Some1 to replace us. . https://t.co/4VJR2lbdY3
Be the positive-connecting light in the halls and throughout the building. Lead by example.
This! https://t.co/BTqASxSbCZ
A4: Be visible and be ➕. There's a misconception that the AP has to be the "bad guy"; you can have ➕ interactions 95% of the time
Thanks all. I aspire to become an AP eventually and have learned a lot through this chat. Enjoy the evening.
Q5 Will close out the chat
Remember to follow those that help you learn and grow
And here's the final Q5 for : If an APs day was like a food, what kind of food would it be and why?
is here every Thursday at 8 PM ET
A5: A perfectly seared steak: Tough and burnt on the outside but warm and juices in the middle
Took 2 Ss 2 AP once. Same infraction. Asked for firm with 1 and daddy with other. He gave them each what they needed. +!
A5: Pineapple Upside Cake bc an in the AP world you never know when everything is going to FLIP https://t.co/ZmNn9FLPHj
A5: a bowl of pasta. Can be long and messy or neat and tidy. It's all how you attack the day. Ciao! https://t.co/czmuWr6Kev
And here's the final Q5 for : If an APs day was like a food, what kind of food would it be and why?
A5: Not sure what it would be, but a lot of people could not stomach it. AP's are a special breed. Fortunate I work with a good one.
A5: Here in the final minute ! Avocado: Rough exterior, soft and gentle in the middle. GOOD NIGHT!
Thanks for leading a great chat tonight Thanks for leading the charge to Inspire and celebrate our MAGIC MS APS
A3: Pizza. It can come in many varieties. It can be plain or it can also come w/ interesting toppings. Either way, it's satisfying.
A5: APs are like gummy daily vitamins- we are better with them for solid daily reasons but they can also be fun too!
Something you can eat with your fingers as always on the run over the noon hour!
A5: Pizza. It can come in many varieties. It can be plain or have interesting toppings. Either way, it's totally satisfying.
Next week will be back leading
A5- Pot pie roulette. You don't know what's inside or where it will stop on any given day.
next week - (Thurs 8pm)
"Being an Effective Leader in Edcuation" hosted by
Thanks all- very fun chat! Wish you all an excellent Friday!
Yes! Thanks, Dru! Todd, thx 2 u as well. It's nice to discuss practices with colleagues. https://t.co/es2bQbchF5
Thanks for leading a great chat tonight Thanks for leading the charge to Inspire and celebrate our MAGIC MS APS
Have an Fabulous Friday everyone I will tweet out a transcript shortly
Thanks for letting me sit in, a few laughs, and new connections. And if u are admin... GOD BLESS YOU!!! https://t.co/noXpK4wMLQ
Thanks for a thought provoking chat.
For & Teaching in the middle? Be a cheer leader, defeat zombification & remember the Ss are a work… https://t.co/gzjkWaVcfD
And APs always serve it up with warmth, conscientiousness and earnest resolve! YAs deserve our best https://t.co/yTrJ8QCRsc
A5- Pot pie roulette. You don't know what's inside or where it will stop on any given day.
Life as a MS AP is like a box of chocolates, you just never know what your gonna get. Is usually good!
True 2 that! APs master the art of stand-up eating & digestion. Got 2 stay healthy & care 4 yourself. https://t.co/h1BxfGuWV0
Thx for the tag, . I would hv missed the chance to "talk" it up w/ u again !
Just make sure your dental work is solid for those tricky, sticky chocolates! https://t.co/Rux1d57XNt
Life as a MS AP is like a box of chocolates, you just never know what your gonna get. Is usually good!
👌🏾Can't miss the chat that inspired the hashtag !
Awesome having you in the arena! Fearless! Limitless!
