#CatholicEdchat Archive
CatholicEdChat is a twitter chat. Topics focus on discussions around educational issues for Catholic Educators and topics beneficial to Catholic Schools. We look forward to continuing to connect Catholic Educators online to discuss education and teaching with faith in our schools. The chat takes place on Saturday mornings. Time 9am EST.
Saturday June 4, 2016 9:00 AM EDT
Will be using and for today's
Good morning! My tweets for the next hour will be devoted to
Q1:Good morning! Welcome to ! Was there anything that made you feel appreciated this week?
hi Shannon! All done with class?
Good morning , reporting back from the missing!
A1 this week some unexpected DMs were sent to me. My PLN always has a way of making me appreciated https://t.co/guQvalXcaV
A1 Cleaning my desk and finding sweet notes from my students!
good early morning to you!
for the summer yes. Nice to have a break.
Good morning! -been a little missing this year, too! Trying to readjust my balance digitally & personally. :)
A1: A teacher I'm working with complimented my collaboration skills! Something I strive and work for!
A1 All the little hugs and cards from parents and students on the last day of school makes me feel appreciated & fortunate.
Good morning from Peabody, MA
good morning and welcome to chat!
That's the BEST! I save everything!
It's amazing how a sincere compliment from a coworker can change your week, isn't it?
A1 Simple conversations & thank you's from colleagues
Sylvia, I love them too! Especially their shiny, happy faces when they present you with a homemade gift.
Absolutely! It meant so much, especially on a crazy week!
those little notes mean so much and bring such big smiles, don't they?
A1: Tech Chair relayed a compliment from the Dean. Indirect but I’ll take it.
A1 Did first and student said, “Wow! This was great and we should to do another one.”
I got an indirect compliment too! I'll take it also!
It's always wonderful when hard work is recognized - directly or indirectly! nicely done!
Good morning ! Br Christopher from KS checking in
yeah! Which game did you play?
Love the homemade gifts and smiles!
AWESOME! Kudos to you and the kiddos!
good morning! Looking forward to July!
Good morning, Erin! Will you be visiting my area anytime this summer? If so, let's have coffee again!
A1: A thoughtful, handwritten note from a parent on the last day of school.
morning! We sent you some rain last night!
A1: An S answered a tricky question right at the zoo and the zoo educator told him he must have a really good science T
A1 got a lot of positive feedback on my NCEA proposal
A1 Friends from school End of year celebrations
I think many schools need to work on direct, positive feedback instead of only calling out for mistakes.
Almost see the finish line now! This is my first summer where I am working the whole summer- very different!
Good morning -Christy from sunny HOT Cal!
good early morning to you!
it rained? I either it missed my town or I was already asleep
Yes, so am I! Booked the flight and hotel this week. Still have some work to do on the presentation.
was thinking on putting that together for on June 21
Personal power is for helping, not harming, read why-> FAITH IN MY FATHER - The Heartland Series https://t.co/M8GpIV1sDT
A1 Got a small gift of candy from a student. It's the little things!
handwritten notes from adults are so rare today. You know they took a special moment when they wrote it for you.
HS teachers always miss out. DH loves sharing in my gifts!
Q2: What does it mean to you to have a healthy balance? How do you know when you need to re-adjust? How do you readjust?
A1: (sort of) A prof in college said to keep a "Happy File" w all the notes, thank yous, etc. Some of the best advice ever
good morning, Sally! Great to see you today!
I love this! I have a box of notes and such from students. Renaming it the Happy File!
A1 cont. Received a thank you note from a s who really struggles in school and likes to try to but heads w me. Wow. 😊
I am in a lot during the summer with the library. It is not bad. https://t.co/3cLVtg9l5b
Almost see the finish line now! This is my first summer where I am working the whole summer- very different!
I love that! It is a nice place to revisit when you need to remember you are making that difference.
A2 Balance can be tricky! The school year is all encompassing especially with having 32 students.
A1 Signed on 3 more Catholic schools to work as instruc coach w/ next yr! Yay, helping more Ts and Ss in Catholic schools
A2 It means taking time out for myself. I am doing that more lately. I feel better emotionally and physically
Awesome. Great for teachers to see it in action. https://t.co/k4LtNaun53
was thinking on putting that together for on June 21
A2 balance means hitting my pillow tired, but not exhausted, eager for the new day
add a little music to it when opened...like "When I am Happy..." :)
A1: moving on to new role at close of year. The personal notes from Ps, Ss, Ts meant the world to me.
notes/cards in the "happy file" are the best medicine!
A2: I'm still working on finding balance! Better than the beginning on the year though!
Readjust when I hear "I told that already" or my Fitbit stats are way down for the week https://t.co/wZmstBIqsN
Q2: What does it mean to you to have a healthy balance? How do you know when you need to re-adjust? How do you readjust?
A2 I find I have to get enough sleep! 8 hours for me!
A2: When I feel that hope is being threatened, then I know it's time to re-calibrate.
Exactly! And great on hard days to give yourself a boost.
A2: Balance means I've prioritized my time during the day. Keep work at work. Know I'm off when I respond to email from bed.
is now trending in USA, ranking 25
I think even more so with the younger grades. They can be needier.
my 8th gr. Homeroom has 32 or 31 next year... looking forward to teaching them religion and sci next year!
that is the same advice from Ken!
A2: a healthy balance is when you don't feel too stressed in one area. I need to re-adjust when I a feel that extra stress
A2 when I'm at the intersection and about compromise one direction I try to pause and reflect https://t.co/EPuX4dhu42
a lot of energy is required!
Correction *I told YOU that already" It means I wasn't focused enough on everyday conversations unrelated to work.
A2: Balance with faith life, family life, school in check = less stress. More stress means something is out of balance.
that's so important! Same for me, too. Need to consistently recharge -not wait until my battery dies :)
A2: I stopped worrying about balance. I can rest in heaven. "When I get to the pearly gates, I want to be able to say... 1/2
A2 co-workers, in my wing, are very intune to each other's stress at my school. Very supportive of each other!
A2 every day is a different balancing act. Knowing to take time to reflect & listen to yourself & others
One of my motto's is "even slow progress is still progress"- I firmly believe that!
my grandparents used to love in Wyoming MI! Lots of happy memories from that area.
2/2 "I want to be able to say, 'I used everything you gave me.'" -Erma Bombeck
Yes! I will say that to myself on repeat!
A2 loving your responses. Big struggle 4 me. To quote sometimes I'm a street light while my own house is dark.
I now have a membership to a massage spa. Best thing I ever did! Oh and voice lessons! Singing is therapy
A2 don't look at balance so much as the right BLEND
So funny!Last week wasn't charging-those low numbers made me reflect on if I was taking care of my fitness
that is about what ends up happening to me when the school year gets into full swing!
A2 Make sure you have time for your family/friends. Also make time to exercise or to enjoy a quiet moment.
Definitely tells a story when it comes to work/life balance : )
Q3: How do you create opportunities to add fitness, healthy/active routines in the day? How do you get all the MustDos done?
That is so IMPORTANT! It's an easy thing to keep shaving time off to do a little more....
Nice quote! Reminds me of the one by T.Roosevelt about spending yourself entirely for a good cause.
Good morning from Saskatoon, sorry I'm late, hotel bed in the city is so comfy!
A1: A thoughtful email from a friend with words of affirmation made my week - especially during end of the year craziness!
A3: When I have my students dance to , I dance with them!!
morning! You didn't have to leave because of smoke, did you?
A3 We just installed a computer stand on our treadmill - love it!
A3 I "try" to not sit. I walk around the room as much as I can. I never get all the must do's done, but I still try.
singing is the best. It gets body soul & mind to listen and work together
A3: Gym/Runs are just a nonnegotiable for me! I just make it work no matter what.
A3 Try to walk 3x a week. Strength class 2x a week. Don’t obsess if don’t get walk/class in because a crazy week.
A2: Balance requires self-discipline, routines, and self-awareness. When I'm off balance, I find myself in a bad mood.
easy for me to get 7,000 steps just on a regular teaching day.
A3: started Fitbit challenge with my 11yr son - family time, exercise, and best part is he won't let me not do it!
A3 leave the school by 4. Brain is cooked by then, so stop trying!
A3 leave the school by 4. Brain is cooked by then, so stop trying!
A2: Also find that brief Mindfulness practice in class helps Ss with balance as well, esp non-rel. Ss. They feel included.
A3: As often as possible, I walk to school. Great time to mentally prepare for day and reflect on day.
A2 doing a year long retreat 1x a month this year, taking various classes and being w/ family
. Agree, Mary - routines can make a huge difference - what is your favorite routine for balance?
A3 I try to run in am before fam is awake. Save paperwork/emails for after kids are in bed.
A3 So much better in the summer, but in school I take unnecessary trips up and down stairs and walk all around my classroom!
no smoke, thanks Barb, a mini getaway with hubby, grocery shopping & maybe a movie,
A3: I do more weekend meal planning so I don't have to spend so much evening time making dinner. Then I have time for me!
Hi all! Mostly lurking today but wanted to say hello. Great topic
A3 Instead of getting to work early for no reason, I do 20 minutes of yoga. And my Saturday walk with
supportive coworkers can make a huge difference
Catch you later We have graduation this morning!
That sounds like an awesome way to start the day!
(You're trending btw) :-)
Hi Jim! Have a great end of school year time
Yes! I have been leaving a half hour after school ends or even walking out the door with students!
A3:I plan out my exercise (and to-do lists) in my planner. This way, I have a visual of my goals for the week.
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VOTE TED CRUZ CALIFORNIA
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<3 this! I've learned for me--sometimes balance means a super focus on 1 thing at a time is okay for me!
A3 Rise early. Hit the gym. Drink my coffee. At work by 6. Time to be alone and work in silence https://t.co/8b5BbAxLpX
"Runs on Coffee" would be my motto!
A3 As my recovery has gone well, I'll be doing more. 1st session w/trainer is Friday!
A3: I try to be mindful of "managing by walking around." Helps me walk more!
And it's just for me. I won't be joining any choirs or bands soon for sure!
Coffee plays an important role : )
Good morning ! Like , I am lurking as well as I head out the door for soccer. Wished to say hello :)
good morning, Amy! Beautiful day for a soccer game!
A3: Use reminders a lot to remember to take 10 during lunch/prep period. So much noise all day. Makes all the difference.
Judging from the tweets all of runs on coffee (or tea!)!
A3 prepare weekday breakfasts on weekend
I started keeping my phone charging in the kitchen - helped me sleep so much better. Also yoga and morning prayer!
I end up singing a lot solo as well. I miss the synergy of big choirs, but can't have it all
Make that Diet Pepsi and I am with you!
Amen great point Kay, Thank you
Q4: Does making yourself a priority regarding your health, exercise affect your family school/classroom or students? How?
And my Starbucks iced tea combo. I need an IV for it
started this too. Try to leave it in my car when I get home until kids are in bed too!
You know that I am SUPER JEALOUS, RIGHT? So excited! Please give me updates on your thoughts!
How do we help our kiddos keep balance? School+ + can often get their world out of balance.
It is indeed a be outside and on the field. Hope you have a great one too - enjoying the topic today.
I actually lock my classroom door for a few minutes during lunch, leave lights off too, so I can chill
Not all. I'm almost completely caffeine free. (Exception - chocolate :))
It makes a big difference! It also reminds me to read at night instead of be on my phone.
A4 Definitely affects family at home and pushes balance. Its hard to maintain. At school, I am pretty much always hi-energy.
Don't eat lunch in your classroom at the computer! Eat outside with co-workers!
A4 when done right it makes me a more patient, humble and kind servant leader!
A4
Yes, when I am in shape, classroom runs much better bc my stress isn't accidentally being thrown at ss!
Yep! Breakfast burritos and egg muffins save my mornings.
A4 With balance, more energy and focus is available to you - you have more to give not less
I keep that in mind with homework/tests I assign.
A4 When I take care of myself, I am a better daughter, wife, mother, teacher and friend. I have more patience.
my personal reading time definitely suffers in finding a balance. good for you! I'll try!
I ❤️ my Erin Condren planner - and notebooks. I just ordered new ones and am patiently waiting
Cassius Clay , , Joe Frazier , , , , George Foreman ,
A4: Definitely. When I'm centered, I can respond the right way to family, Ss, peers. Aware of things I may not have noticed.
great point. I take stretch breaks w my ss at sporadic moments or go for walks around the school.
A4: Saw a huge positive difference when I starting making time for health/balance, as to when I didn't. My Ss recognized it!
It is simple - home made and it helps me get my steps in
Great idea. Wish I could turn off the school intercom as well.
A4: Yes, it makes everything better AND it sets an example that self-care is important.
grateful my duty schedule changed this past year. Only had lunch duty 2 times a week.
A3 I quit soda. Now drink coffee. at least that's "clean"
I think there is a notion that self care = selfish when it's the exact opposite!
A4: Yes, when we take care of ourselves, we are better able to serve our students and be our best selves.
A4 If I am not in shape mentally and physically everybody around me suffers.
A4: Also, we need to model self-care for our students too!
A4: We can't give what we don't have!
Great ideas, Mary - turn off notifications unless absolutely necessary
true statement. I think us Ts are the worst offenders for not taking good care of ourselves first.
A4 Always helps when you're feeling your best to handle stress at home or work
No soda for me either. No sugar in anything I drink! Or artificial sweeteners.
ummm... that could help me with my CandyCrush... problem :)
always a goal of mine (a decade of limited success)
Thank you for the ability to ban SPAMMERS in
Yes! I think Ts esp feel guilty for taking self care time. It is so necessary!
I am trying to lay off the gluten as well.
For those of us serving others, this is really important.
I block and report all trolls.
Q5: Small healthy changes create big results! What small, daily choices do you make that help you feel better?
Changing my diet has helped with that mid afternoon slump I used to get. Now reach for trail mix, not candy
Funny, as principal, my best stress relief was lunch and recess duty daily
A5 Had to change my diet for health reasons, feel much better now! Dairy and Gluten free! Clean eating for me!
I have found if I put my workout time 1st, I still get most things done -other way? Workout suffers
A5 I have really reduced sugar intake and have lost some pounds. Fruit and seed shake every morning. I feel good all day
A5 Saying no to faculty room treats and staying away from negativity-mental health is just as important!
that can be true! But it has been so nice to have quiet time in the middle of the day
A5 leave school on time in order to have time to wok out before evening Mass, supper, and evening prayer
Q5: I drink A LOT of water all day long. Helps me make better choices all around.
A5 I try to go to bed by 10:00pm and walk (if I can) instead of drive.
A5: I try not to vent. It always leaves me feeling guilty and icky which is not helpful at all.
A5: Whole foods, exercise, healthy diet, (most of the time : )
A5 To watch what I eat (not always successful) and let things go!
important point! Need a solution to the problem
I have never had an notebook! I'll have to look into that 😊
A5 if I've been doing managerial tasks for >30 min during school day, I get outta the office and interact with Ts and Ss
PERFECT! This is so true for me, too. I know if I am not feeling that joy...need to stop & refocus something
that sounds loke a delicious way to start the day.
Working out is the first thing I do post school time. If I wait too long, it's a disaster!
A5: I do not check email first thing in the morning.
A5: Eat breakfast, walk to school, grade the day's papers that day. (Disclaimer: These are goals, often not reality)
Good coffee and water intake, quiet reflection at the end of the day before prepping for the next, walking to & from school
we are thrilled you and are taking advantage of that moderator tool.
Time to talk to Ss, Ts, fresh air -Truly sound like a great principal
# Truth ! Sometimes I intentionally go into neg. Places effusing good news and joy 😇😆
you all rock! Grateful being able to take control of negative tweets during our positive chat!
A5: Drink only water at meals. Gave up eating killed animals. Healthier me. Healthier planet.
A5 Attend chat for weekly positive boost with PLN!
A5 bed by 9:30, clean eating, no soda, exercise. each
so true it is the first to go!
I try to have a stash of healthy snacks in my desk, my car, etc. I'm pretty good most of the time!
so you eat only living animals? (Kidding! ☺)
it also models that behavior in a healthy way for those around us- adults & students
looking into this now, too!
YES! Don't know what I'd do w/o and
A5 Our school doesn't allow candy treats for students. Follows the Healthy Nebraska Kids guidelines
I try different kinds of workouts/classes just because - loved sharing that with Ss. A different kind of life long learning!
Great but mediocre leadership
think it shows how we recharge differently& knowing YOU is important
A4: always at my best when I eat small snacks all day and have time for a good run
When is ? That sounds awesome!
Q6: I have found many helpful technology tools, like in my fitness journey. What tools do you use?
I've been trying to do one weekend day of no emails, etc to start working toward better balance. https://t.co/BnIhdaHwbZ
is Wednesday evening at 8 CST, another great, positive PLN
A6 (count steps/HR), (record what I eat), (log walking routes and miles)
A5: I drink at least 2 water bottles during the day! My Ss notice if when I don't bc I'm super crabby.
A6 I use Nike + to record my walking miles. Goal is 500 miles in the year. Got to 250 last year!
A6 Garmin 305 GPS/heart rate watch. Online running log, and low tech but awesome B-I-L running partner
A6 Love how syncs with my
A6: I use RunKeeper for outdoor runs. I'm hearing lots of positives on today, must check it out!
A6. Chopping and dicing using kitchen technology
I know! I hear that voice in my head/don't sit down-when I do-ugh!Feel better after workout! https://t.co/IA2ZCoxbZ9
Working out is the first thing I do post school time. If I wait too long, it's a disaster!
A6 Not really into gadgets, but lately I have been doing GoNoodle with kids at school and home too https://t.co/Wow6JJCeH5
A6: I actually like to be low-tech on this one & no gyms - exercise outside yr. round. Summer is hardest - I like cold temps
A5 , , and a good old blood pressure monitor and scale
awesome, thanks! There definitely is a problem with our food production/distribution .
Q6 - We have apps for that! Track steps and workouts app Track food app
A6 too competitive for the it prevented balance for me. Enjoying my plus watch and ap to monitor my runs
A6: . Also makes me feel like I'm living in a episode. 🖖🏼
My water container is always be full.The ice machine is across campus so a great way to get steps in
A6: I have really benefitted from writing down my workouts for the week. Even if it's a walk, I still need accountability.
is the best, especially during a busy school day!
A6 I use the You Are Your Own Gym book and app to track workouts. Have had great results mentally and physically
Love it! I use a lot of apps help me w/few mindful moments during the day, too! Recommend anything specific?
A6 Fitbit. And I have a great yoga app
A6 Our local farmers market started up again! Jealous of cities that have it all year round!
Q7: Any goals you want to set for yourself this summer or next school year in regards to taking care of yourself?
Speaking of workouts-time to get ready for my walk! Have a great Saturday everyone!
Definitely going to check this out. Thanks for the recommendation!
A6 - Taking time to walk lets me catch up with friends too - valuable friend time
I need to start doing that! A little counterbalance!
A7: Finish writing one book. Just one. I'm tired of putting it off.
Alright gotta bounce early. Meeting with my abbot in a moment, in part to get his blessing on NCEA 17.
me too, Big Bang theory when I get home
A7 keep eating clean and walking. Have to be mindful of step numbers during the summer. My default is reading a book!
A5: Listen to Podcasts during my workouts & feel like I am working on my mind & body at same time! Really motivates me
A7 Weight-loss! sSnce surgery last summer, I really gained weight. This summer- no surgery, no excuses!
A7 Eat healthier and work on core strength
A7: Simply to have a better balance this year. Take some personal creativity time.
Jerry, you have a walking page! You think of everything!
I think that is great that you know that about yourself! Such a key to finding that balance!
Great idea! https://t.co/3w7TIo0UUy
A5: Listen to Podcasts during my workouts & feel like I am working on my mind & body at same time! Really motivates me
A7 My summer walking plan always starts first day school is out. Just have to come up with a plan to continue it in Fall.
Thank you for the chat today! For all of you finished school or almost finished, have a wonderful, healthy & relaxed summer!
Walk with a friend! Maybe next school year, a walking club is in order.
A7 Better Balance Faith, Family, SJV.
A7 weight loss, more reading, more walking - with dogs!
A7: Doing yoga with my 3yr old when she does , less checking Twitter before getting out of bed.
That is "Since last summer," - I can't type!!!!
Have a wonderful week everyone. Heading out for a walk.
We are most grateful to for moderating chat. Great discussion -Educator balance! Keeping us sharp and healthy!
it also models that behavior in a healthy way for those around us- adults & students MORE >> https://t.co/HNy7pcBrNb
thank you, Kay! I'm re-focused now. Let's do this!
Have a great week everyone!
Thanks and all for a lovely chat! Now to tackle my 7 mile run today!
Anyone from headed to ? I would love to meet up!
Enjoy your weekend, and have a great week!
Great chat. I'm motivated! Be the Light of Christ to all you encounter this week. Off to cut the grass...again!!!!
Have a great weekend! For those of you still in session, enjoy your closing days/weeks!
You are kind and I am the one truly grateful. Thank you for the opportunity. https://t.co/hIt8NhdyoZ
We are most grateful to for moderating chat. Great discussion -Educator balance! Keeping us sharp and healthy!