#edchat Archive
#Edchat is a hashtag, a movement—it is a weekly organized Twitter discussion of educators and people interested in education that meet virtually from all over the world. #Edchat serves as a conversation thread on Twitter and is also used for organized weekly discussions.
Tuesday August 2, 2016 7:00 PM EDT
Topic: Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
WELCOME Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
Topic: Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
NOW - Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
Definitely! They need all the support they can get. Need to be assigned a mentor, work on one goal at a time, personalized PD.
Absolutely. New teachers need a supportive environment, not the crappiest assignment in the building.
What up Buttercup? Time for ! Let's talk about first year teachers.
Very true. Support is key for smoothing the transition into a demanding profession. https://t.co/YO5LgEtAwb
Definitely! They need all the support they can get. Need to be assigned a mentor, work on one goal at a time, personalized PD.
A1: 1st yr Ts need mentoring, clear directions for how to access needed supports/documents & plenty of formal and informal feedback
Hi, Joe--instructional leader from CT
I would say we can't lower the bar but we definitely need to give them strong and ongoing support to succeed https://t.co/VZ5W9AZ0rp
NOW - Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
It was nice to be off social media for a while but now I'm back!! Watch out, lol :)
Topic Now:Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years?What should that look like?
yes! new teachers should have a mentor- the mentor should be made aware of needs of their BT- mentor should be trained and evaluated
Welcome, Joe. Tonight we’re talking about special considerations for new teachers.
It can be very difficult to remember to check in with new teachers with all the craziness of the beginning of a new year.
A1: Mentor/induction programs are really impt. CT is lucky in that beginning Ts are required to participate in one & have mentors
New teachers should be given good mentors, and both mentor and teacher should have scheduled time to meet.
mentors and BTs should meet more than 3 times a month with training on classroom management
Have them start a blog as a way to reflect & build a portfolio. Have them connect w/ other new Ts & form a network.
NOW — Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
JOIN — Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years? What should that looks like?
Makes so much sense... why aren't we doing that?
Happy Back to School! Wondering how to introduce ClassDojo to your Ss? Students <3 this intro video! https://t.co/VbFS8hasUm 🎬 😍
New teachers need mentors, and they need to be able to help choose those mentors.
YES they do... is that what you had doing your its year?
What is meant by “special consideration” … should all teachers get the same “benefits”
this is a great thought- portfolios and blogs! consistent and constant communication are NEEDED!
Admin need to check in regularly & its needs to be proactive rather than punitive.
We need to be proactive with new teachers too. Don't wait for them to ask for help.
I think it needs to be weekly. :) https://t.co/d2wZvW208Z
mentors and BTs should meet more than 3 times a month with training on classroom management
for sure... need frequent, regular and meaningful contact...
New Teachers should be in a program like Medical interns: seeing all the best teacher at work and teaching in front of others
How many years of mentorship do new teachers need?
Good question! We need to see new Ts as endless possibilities that need nurturing, questioning, and guidance https://t.co/EH1Ly0HCKs
Makes so much sense... why aren't we doing that?
very cool... a difference maker for you?
yes most definitey- and BT should have a mentor that is in the same building
New teachers need an administration that's connected to instructional design and leadership PD.
New teachers need Mentors, but veteran teachers need support too
What if all experienced Ts checked in on new Ts weekly? I need to do a better job of this as a teacher librarian.
We used to require portfolios for new Ts in CT. We now have a newer model based more on reflection
An extra planning dedicated to Learning Walks & reflection w/ mentor. Also, feedback from frequent visitors to the Ts' class.
is this a true false question?
- I would say 1-3 years depending on the teacher's needs.
There's a misconception that Ts need to know it all; not true! Personalize the PD for all Ts.
Definitely! New teachers r often left to sink or swim.They need mentors, guidance, and specific collaboration time!
way to go CT- NC needs to realize this!
I suppose you would need to wait a few weeks before one is assigned. Maybe have a team of teachers with each noob?
New teachers are often given little choice about volunteering for coaching & extra curricular events that eat away at their time.
I think it means things like not making them travel or be assigned really difficult groups. Let them learn their craft.
New Ts need plenty of observations and opportunities to BE observed. Teaching can be very isolating.
Think all Ts need support but new ones need more b/c they are just starting out; wish I had a mentor https://t.co/kYQkZLHVHr
What is meant by “special consideration” … should all teachers get the same “benefits”
... is there a vegan and gluten free option?
obviously all teachers need mentored, I am thinking of a programmed mentorship.
Absolutely, but it should be catered to their skills and needs. It should be individualized. One size fits all doesn't work.
I saw your bit on mentoring. What advice would you give to a teacher-librarian considering taking Praxis for classroom cert?
it sure is, shouldn't be that way! all teachers should do some type of rounds!
we are in a strange time … where vet teachers need a different type of mentorship …
We offer mentorship in the first two years...sometimes goes into a third year if there are special circumstances
Just like w/kids, it should vary depending on competence. Some need more support than others.
well... let's have all teachers be special...
do you think schools do a good job making sure mentor/mentees have adequate time and admin support?
In our board, new teachers have mentors for 2 years + they get 2 attend workshops of interests & have supply cov to work with mentor
Join tonight at 8 PM MDT to collaboratively create a "Back-to-School Toolkit!"
Mentoring within a teacher's discipline is impt to develop curriculum connections; mentoring from a dept. head is impt for policy.
It was a great process! I like the new process, too, but completely different
they do need time to hone their craft, find their individual voice in their craft … mentors shouldn't dictate
I wonder if mentorship is often just a platform to help noobs figure out how things work,and not necessarily development.
IA; some veteran Ts need to be pushed out of their comfort zone. Many don't want to change. https://t.co/rcy4Mjg5OB
we are in a strange time … where vet teachers need a different type of mentorship …
Excited to present at the conf in Dec with and about and
A great idea. Too bad most schs don’t have the staff to make time available. Sad, really.
All tchers need collaborative teams to grow and push thinking. Involvement at all levels- school and district.
Great idea! https://t.co/bcpArfcazS
There's a misconception that Ts need to know it all; not true! Personalize the PD for all Ts.
Education is meant to be not ... We don't have to be radicalized to accomplish this!
maybe let the teacher have a voice in the choice too? Give them some ownership.
My answer is ∞. While natures of mentorship change, I still seek mentors 2+ decades along career path
If that support is not provided, is it best for new T's to ask?
That is what you need to focus on. Teaching is a tough enough job.
Agree! That's impt, but it also needs to focus on other areas like assessment, instruction, etc. to be effective
I wonder how often mentors focus on how to get things done around school over in the classroom.
- I would say no. More time for collaboration would be helpful to everyone involved.
great points... Growth mindset!
time always seems to be the expense we can't afford. :(
I like to think we all need support … or a BIG push
Active learning studies: children playing w/ toys act a lot like scientists doing experiments https://t.co/6Pi99RglTk
How many schools have mentor programs in place for new teachers?
I think that is why so many of us are here.
they have to create the learning time or they can't say they're supporting pro learning
yes, the day to day stuff is important too, but after that the convos should go deeper.
As we focus on one group we must not forget everybody needs to grow
We have a program through our school board https://t.co/m0yjCUSMba
How many schools have mentor programs in place for new teachers?
... am i the only one who finds it sad that we have to have this conversation?
But I'm sure we can find creative ways thru time tabling, no?? https://t.co/ZOnpQ7jYwZ
time always seems to be the expense we can't afford. :(
New teachers w/ the smarts & subject mastery, but lack classroom management can throw all that into chaos. Real school 101!
Do the beginning of the year new teacher meetings really meet the needs of new teachers?
Remember to add the hashtag so all chatters can follow your comments.
our district does at district level and school level. Tchrs have choice over what learning teams to be involved
We do. However, it seems to start strong & then die off. New person in charge. Hoping that helps https://t.co/1QCzwmsDOB
How many schools have mentor programs in place for new teachers?
Our district has a mentoring program; sch assigns mentor & district holds support sessions throughout the year.
Definitely agree--my state's program is designed around environment, planning, instruction, assessmnt, and prof. resp.
too often we get a one track mind … see it with kids and chasing test scores Education is not good at multi-tasking
More importantly, what do the programs provide/support/monitor/continue to revisit? Can't be 1 time workshop https://t.co/YrzM2disOz
How many schools have mentor programs in place for new teachers?
University of Michigan uses this model for their teacher training programs.
I suspect most public schools have them. In Missouri it is state law.
All get equal emphasis, at least, since the mentoring hours need to be documented
sounds like your state is on the ball :)
it is easy to forget about the new teachers when the year gets rolling
New teacher mentoring has been a huge initiative here for years, so we're lucky w/that!
'Here' = layered word in chat context. Discovery for me in last yr: Digital mentors, to go w/f2f ones
it is funny how often we need to be reminded to seek feedback ;)
Need to ask them what they want& need; have them complete a google form survey. https://t.co/CY4jiXWPP2
Do the beginning of the year new teacher meetings really meet the needs of new teachers?
kids deserve a fresh start … even if they already have a history with you …
I've been teaching for 4 years. I still feel new.
. I suspect most do not have effective programs since there is a cost involved.
I find more people who are interested in what I am interested online than off.
That's a great idea. I feel bad for them at orientation--must be so overwhelming
Think about it, newbies needs to deliver curriculum, assessments, discipline, etc. They need guidance.
https://t.co/qQ0erAM2d3
not all new teachers need it, but all def need more purposeful training, deeper, more meaningful 'clincals' if you will
Starting this year. Been flipped for years now I have to switch materials. Any advice for beginning of year?
Do any mentor programs ask new teachers to connect with at least one teacher from outside the building through SM?
That's an issue; I'll be trying a gradeless classroom this coming school year https://t.co/LMK18QxYqC
too often we get a one track mind … see it with kids and chasing test scores Education is not good at multi-tasking
- I wish there was a way to build it in better. Mentorships are priceless if done correctly.
To be a , you must sentence yourself to a life of solitary refinement ~ Paul Raymond Martin
Technically my district has a 1-yr program, but most of us consult with our mentors far beyond that. I sure do!
Hi everyone! New to the chat. Just returned from a year in Ghana where I was teaching young entrepreneurs.
sometimes they don't know what they need or want until they get started, also true of more experienced Ts https://t.co/9vjZSa2gPK
Need to ask them what they want& need; have them complete a google form survey. https://t.co/CY4jiXWPP2
Do the beginning of the year new teacher meetings really meet the needs of new teachers?
That's a good idea. Ours is only focused w/in the district; however, sometimes the mentor is in another building
most have them but the quality of each program is the issue: most mentors are busy with own teaching
Evening Meredith joining from SW FL
Howard here. Looking for the question.
. You are very wise to do so.
Inspired by our student’s drive/edtech affinity, I partnered with a colleague and launched Trilo Spelling (https://t.co/G8E9hIfZQc )
At start of year I always asked myself "what do I want my Ss to remember about me when they leave in June?" https://t.co/TByacZdsM9
kids deserve a fresh start … even if they already have a history with you …
Welcome, Alex. Tonight we’re talking about whether special considerations are needed for new teachers.
Graduating from a Ed program, doesn't give educators experience. Many learn on the job w/out help; it's tough.
My building has a first year mentor assigned, however you can connect with that mentor or other Ts/admin whenever you need to.
yes, for new teachers ... heck, who are we fooling all teachers get forgotten as the year gets underway...
Notice myself seizing opportunities to cross streams: offline seeding online interactions & vice versa
Wrote one of the first Mentorship grants in Wisconsin back in 1998. Long time belief in the importance of this initiative.
Looking for a fantastic example of an edu who EMPOWERS their students to want to create/be creative. Pls rt!
Awesome! Pumped to be a part of the conversation.
Our goals are bigger, like how do communicate student learning, diff betwn assessmt or evaluation..
I was teaching for probably 10 before I realized I didn't really know anything.... :/
Me too; it's like 1st year at uni; where do I get my S card? Where r my classes? Lol :) https://t.co/3jaghcv6hf
That's a great idea. I feel bad for them at orientation--must be so overwhelming
but that was before I could talk to people here and get my act (more) together.
RT: Summer Fun, Summer School! DreamBox_Learn shares tips for Making the Most of Summer School. … https://t.co/oiXV3DpSFL
it can easily be a check box for state reporting.
How are these mentor programs assessed? Are new teachers able to speak about deficiencies or criticize the program?
Yes. It shld incl well developed courses (w good materials), an extra planning period, & limit xtra duties. https://t.co/oTO4dhxYs4
Topic Now:Should new teachers starting their first job be given special consideration in the first years?What should that look like?
Agree, though you get different ideas on what changes you can make in your class
Not that I know of but I've always advocated for new Ts to form a network on social media. https://t.co/WCgfpdjBsK
Do any mentor programs ask new teachers to connect with at least one teacher from outside the building through SM?
Getting_Smart: Summer Fun, Summer School! DreamBox_Learn shares tips for Making the Most of Summer School. … https://t.co/NLhdeYWkjA
There is a way; we just need to find it, lol :) https://t.co/6kASFysoe3
- I wish there was a way to build it in better. Mentorships are priceless if done correctly.
Perhaps there wouldn't be so many leaving the profession if they had help getting started in the early years.
EEP - 2 #collegehttps://youtu.be/hi8MFE3ZPPA via
It had been sit & get. I'm hoping things will change. I was former district mentor & offered assistance/ideas. We'll see
yeah, learning should change us and should show up where we work too.
For sure but we don't want to overwhelm new Ts w/ too much; it doesn't work IMO https://t.co/9A3nwvtNCU
Our goals are bigger, like how do communicate student learning, diff betwn assessmt or evaluation..
Yes; we ask for reflection at end of year & suggestions to improve https://t.co/b9OrdIutW6
How are these mentor programs assessed? Are new teachers able to speak about deficiencies or criticize the program?
many of our sites have Wed collaborative blocks..no Ss. Tchers connect in teams focused on going deeper
True, but Ed classes aren't the real deal, the classroom is.
How about giving new Ts a rubric of clear expectations, opps to learn what they need, thought-provoking questions, & clear feedback
True which is why you need to form the survey very carefully; it works https://t.co/kjSBKZ8NaD
sometimes they don't know what they need or want until they get started, also true of more experienced Ts https://t.co/9vjZSa2gPK
Need to ask them what they want& need; have them complete a google form survey. https://t.co/CY4jiXWPP2
Do the beginning of the year new teacher meetings really meet the needs of new teachers?
Hey Brian... where in Colorado do you live?
A leader must inspire teachers so they can inspire kids!
So true! And some new teachers struggle to accept that in themselves. Can cause them to resist advice and/or burn out.
not when you're in mixed teams. All get advantages at all levels always connected back to practical
We must remain extremely nimble if we hope to adapt in a world so rapidly reinventing itself.
RT: Summer Fun, Summer School! DreamBox_Learn shares tips for Making the Most of Summer School. … https://t.co/xCRd8Pe9Rx
It’ll be “one more thing” they have to do but it may end up actually growing on them and working!
Jen, That has been my experience as well. It is a great reason not to evolve a program. Newbies won't/can't complain.
how often did you reflect- or how did you two reflect?
How often do you schedule new T mtgs after orientation (apart from indiv. mentor mtgs)? We have 2-3 w/the whole group during the yr.
Everyone should be given special consideration :-)
Do traditional assessments place a ceiling on student effort and achievement? Food for thought! https://t.co/pT4ZSD0KoY
I don't want a ceiling on their efforts
Try something like or Also check out He curates several lists for educators.
Ss see it as a checklist and done
Low confidence in discourages female students from pursuing STEM: https://t.co/IkaPvsLK6u - We need to change this!
I think new teachers needed to be provided more time to reflect on practice & more time to work w/ mentors!
I believe in most states it's a law; however, not frequently enforced because of budgets.
It is also fueled by veterans saying that's what we have always done & it worked for me.
In case you haven't noticed, I am good for about 30 minutes of , then I tend to get a bit goofy. ;)
from 4-6 depending on the collaboration team they join
Ugh!! 🤔 https://t.co/DcUrdA6wNu
It is also fueled by veterans saying that's what we have always done & it worked for me.
That's why my motto is looking back BUT moving forward.
For higher ed, do mentorship programs exist?
Educational training should not be a one-off for anyone.
Looking 4 hashtags, twitter chats, etc. to share with 1styear teachers so they can build their
A strong mentoring program for new tchrs will strengthen any faculty. It's an investment essential for a school's High achievement
If we promote personalized learning for students, why not the same for teachers?
Help New (and all) Teachers develop a (Personal Learning Network) for support. Show them where to find the support they need.
Carnegie Mellon U Launches 3D Printing Initiative: A new consortium at Carnegie Mellon University wil... https://t.co/mGB9hzJDut
I'm wondering: Would assessment help or hurt authenticity of mentor/new teacher relationship?
We see value in teacher mentors, why don't see value in student mentors the same way?
New teachers need NONJUDGMENTAL,NON-CONFRONTATIONAL support. . They are the NEWBORNS of the industry.
What are you doing in 20 minutes? Chatting about with and I at ! 8PM EST. https://t.co/cIRPIcHRyC
Join & for the chat at 8 pm ET. We'll discuss solutions for back to school. Share with us!
New to Twitter -- so, would be available for those teaching in higher ed? Say, if we have ideas to get input on?
True mentorship should be based on authenticity. It should use the real classroom and not a theoretic classroom.
RT : Educational training should not be a one-off for anyone.
The calculator can calculate, but only humans can think, dig deep, and discover connections https://t.co/0HviQxXGNJ
Yes, growth focused. Not punitive.
I propose beyond a 3-year mentor, new teachers also have a 3-year phase in for evaluation that includes peer feedback.
Thanks to our moderators & . Thanks too to who hasn't joined us in awhile.
& it shld b abt pedgogy & not content.When I mentored othr Englsh Ts,we talkd Romeo & Juliet, not bst prctice
Here is a good PLN primer: https://t.co/5zyHI6ZKyc
Everyone can create a PLN to have access to knowledge. https://t.co/LwT0NbarWc
New to Twitter -- so, would be available for those teaching in higher ed? Say, if we have ideas to get input on?
needs to be mutually beneficial relationship;give constructive feedback& be a critical friend;no formal eval.
. I so agree with you on that. A balance of content and pedagogy is needed but to often Content dominates.
. I hope you stuck with it and had some fun as well.
thanks :) - something I truly believe in :)
I want them. Student mentors are essential.
Teach Ss this: Trust because you are willing to accept the risk, not because it's safe or certain~Anonymous
We are about to embark on a new school year; let's help, mentor, and guide any new teacher in our schools.
My fave idea of today is "speed mentoring," as shared by . Our New Ts are often of a new gen that likes to shop for advice.
Great to be back on Twitter!! And thanks for a great chat ! See you soon!! :)
Do our new gen, new Ts want to be tied down to one mentor? Time for a paradigm shift?
Thank you to all who participated in tonight’s . As always, I appreciate co-mods:
Thank you to all who participated in tonight’s . As always, I appreciate co-mods:
For the record, I agree with all you both have said. :-)
REMINDER: Many discussions are expanded thru conversations on Edchat Radio w/
#2148 The drops of rain make a hole in the stone, not by violence, but by oft falling. — Lucretius
https://t.co/OAy1nalbh3
I'm proud of both. Especially when my Ss are doing either correctly.
Hey All!! Join us in 1 minute for
Great point. Focus on improvement, not struggle. So hard to get through a first year otherwise!
The Twitter profile has just added it's 600th student blog to the account!