#caedchat Archive
#caedchat is for California educators, by California educators. All are welcome as moderators and participants discuss issues that emerge in California education, which are generally applicable to other regions of the United States.
Sunday May 1, 2016
Join for the next hour to discuss how you make the most of the last weeks of school.
Let's do this.
https://t.co/fzhubngyf1
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Q0: Who are you, where are you from, and what’s your “finish strong” song?
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Happy to join in on . Sundays are usually a bad twitter night for be, but im glad to he around tonight.
A0: Jen from Upland. 9/10/11 ELA teacher & 1st year teacher
a0: Jon Brubaker, Beaumont, English Teacher, "I Lived" by One Republic
Hello ! I'm Shannon joining in from SF and representing
A0: My name is Katy Parker and I am teaching Spanish 1 at Valley Center High School.
a0: I'm Sarah Hunter, soon 2 be 1st yr single subject ELA teacher in San Diego, CSUSM student: Destiny’s Child “Survivor”
A0: Todd Schmidt...elem principal in SoCal...my "finish strong" song is Don't Stop Believing...can't go wrong with Journey!
Hi, I'm Iris, student teacher in the Bay Area. Finish strong song is Beyonce "Run the World"
A0: John, Upland, and I've rocked out to "Rock You Like a Hurricane" since... a while back.
https://t.co/xHkTScyFZC
I'm Jill from California. Future teacher collaborating with real teachers. I would choose, "We are the Champions" by Queen!
A0: Michael - Dir of - Los Angeles - my "?" is how can I keep "love learning" mindset for Ts & Ss till end of the year.
Q1 - jen wagner calvary murrieta -- no song comes to mind
A0: Teresa from Irvine, HS English and EdTech Mentor. "I Will Survive" complete with disco ball
Good question, Michael, and hopefully we can offer up some good discussion during around that idea.
A0: Rick Stevens from San Francisco area. Aretha's "Respect" always spoke to me.
Good evening! K teacher from San Diego! We still have 8 weeks of school.
Anne, principal from Ventura County. Glad to be here this evening.
you're 80% through the year! That definitely qualifies for "the final push"
Hi Leila Escondido Carry on my wayward son,there'll be peace when you are done.Lay your weary head to rest Don't you cry no more.
But not enough to consider it over. Have lots of learn and master.
Before we jump in, I'm hoping this chat will be more of "how can we get the most of our remaining days" and less of "TGIATEOTY"
Dvora Kravitz from Los Angeles, checking in a little late
Hey It’s Kathy from Upland- I teach 9th grade Ss (honors and prep bio) It’s either “Flight of the Bumble Bee”or it’s “Firework"
👋🏽
Bay Area, CA
Katy Perry's Roar🦁
I will be lurking/In and out this evening.
or We're Not Gonna Take It
A0: Elizabeth from Livermore (SF Bay area), 7th grade math
a1: The students would say I connect with them, add variety, and I am flexible.
Roar was my second choice! I rock animal prints! https://t.co/sJvq1kZZxa
👋🏽
Bay Area, CA
Katy Perry's Roar🦁
I will be lurking/In and out this evening.
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Q1: If your students were to grade *your class* as part of their final, what do you think they’d say are the strengths?
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I hope that they say my strengths are that I take into account their unique differences and interests into our learning.
Hi I think you met from my district this weekend! He's good people.
I love end of yr- I get to finish strong & when the yr is done- I feel sad my Ss’ll be leaving. Im pretty sure they are prepared.
Okay if we are going to bring in Twisted Sister, I am in! I offer Ratt-Round and Round? https://t.co/wgwsLTFjde
or We're Not Gonna Take It
A1: I HOPE they said it was evident that I cared for their them as people. That I was proud of them even on the hard days
A1: Not in a classroom but my Ss who internalized my focus on student choice would say they flourished. So critical for success.
A1: My students would say I am willing to listen to their suggestions and to try new things.
A1: Positive learning env., strong student/teacher relationships, I truly care & will go out of my way to help them do well!
A1: I think they’d say that our school is a place where people care about them.
A1 Fun and flexible, with some Minecraft, which I think would be all they wanted to talk about.
A1: I'll answer these based on my Obs I did this sem. Communication, resiliency, innovation& intelligence. https://t.co/jKMiNxKyju
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Q1: If your students were to grade *your class* as part of their final, what do you think they’d say are the strengths?
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A1: making science fun and relevant to them as much as possible, at least I hope so
A0: Ricardo Gomez, Oakland student teacher, part of . Clams Casino "Illest Alive."
A1 Strengths of my class are that time absolutely flies.blink and it's the end of the day hear it constantly "it's time to go?"
A1 I hope they recognize that I provided them choices and demonstrated flexibility. Our interviews rocked, too
A0: Kate Fisher, Camarillo, 6/7 Math, joining a little late
A1 I used to do an anonymous survey at the end of the yr. Common responses were "real" "respect" "funny" "hard but good"
A1: strengths be teacher who has their back, interactive learning, variety, and examples of new concepts from pop culture
A1: Ss would say that a strength is me being "cool." Aka I care about them as learners and am open w/ them
A1: Each semester, I had my students grade *me* and these were my top 5 from my last year as a teacher:
https://t.co/7P84bVoZnV
He is indeed! Got the chance to meet too! Good people in the ol
A1:I am considering having a counselor interview Ts and give me anonymous feedback. I hope Ts would Say I’m supportive.
those are the best phrases
Was this observation handed to you by your administrator or by students? If not Ss, what would /they/ say?
Hi ! Q0 Shannon from Oakland here, and it's definitely Beyonce. Probably Formation.
Chris from SoCal joining a bit late. APUSH and AVID teacher.
Nice! I didn't realize was there, too! https://t.co/zdFDtjsC1M
He is indeed! Got the chance to meet too! Good people in the ol
A1: I think they would say that I care, that I try to understand them as people, and that I'm willing to take risks in teaching.
A little late, but here! Giulia from San Diego - 1st Grade
, all great things! "Speaks clearly" especially good feedback for EL Ss, I hope my students feel the same!
A1: I think my kid Ss like my hands-on, learn-by-doing style; my adult Ss say I'm approachable & patient
"hard but good" that is magic to a teacher's ears!
A1: I think my colleagues would say my willingness to share my own weaknesses keeps it real
I like this idea. A lot. Administrators seeking out feedback is an important step in growth. https://t.co/wjcKe2Oit0
A1:I am considering having a counselor interview Ts and give me anonymous feedback. I hope Ts would Say I’m supportive.
A1- I think they would say the strengths are that I care about them AND their learning- high expectations for learning & behavior.
a2: Taking too long to grade things, being disorganized, making them read things they don't want to.
Yes, if they trust you, they will work for you!
Greetings to all! Can only stay but a few. Rural NE IOWA checking in!
A1 Ah, I have such a hard time w/ these kinds of questions! I would wager -- relevant curric, effort at relationships?
Accessibility of material, organization, and flexibility would hopefully be noted by my students.
I figure the Ts could be honest with a counselor and the feedback would beat a form… https://t.co/jnIK1KQ2Vf
I like this idea. A lot. Administrators seeking out feedback is an important step in growth. https://t.co/wjcKe2Oit0
A1:I am considering having a counselor interview Ts and give me anonymous feedback. I hope Ts would Say I’m supportive.
A1: I'm extremely organized & plan well. Sometimes class site is overwhelming. They’d say I care ab more than just content.
A1: For those admin wanting to get feedback from your staffs...here is a survey I send to my staff! https://t.co/xsPY5daOIK
Hi - better late than never. David, HS English teacher, Palo Alto
A1: My students would say my class is probably one of the classes they work the most, but don't seem bothered by it
A2 I, too, take too long to grade stuff :( Working on it. G Classroom this year helps as do other digital tools.
As you answer Q1&Q2, think about how you might ask students for feedback. After all, they see you the most out of anyone on campus
A1: I would hope my ss would say we had fun learning. It’s a conscious part of my planning.
I definitely had the same problem!! Agreed-- going digital helped tons!
agreed. It was always nice to see that on the results.
A2- This year- I was out too much (especially in March) which made some lessons confusing. The tests are hard compared to last yr
A1: I hope Ss would say I’m fair, helpful, risk-taker, interested in them, enjoy teaching, knowledgeable.
Now that the good stuff is out of the way, prepare for Q2. If you're not comfortable answering this question, I can respect that.
Those both are so important to ss. I strive for those as well.
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Q2: If your students were to grade *your class* as part of their final, what do you think they’d say are the weaknesses?
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is so therapeutic - I'm not alone in my "areas for improvement"! Thx ! https://t.co/4YhIXztY6Q
I definitely had the same problem!! Agreed-- going digital helped tons!
A2b- It must not be that bad- I have a full house for Every Saturday School I offer. and disappointment when I cannot do it
A2: I strongly suspect most of them would like a more predictable schedule, speech therapy schedule varies a lot!
A2: My observations on my mentor-- taking too long to grade stuff, reading really old books, and being disorganized.
Late...Melanie, Bay Area. "I'm near the end, but I just ain't got the time" (Can't Find My Way Home)
A1: My students would have said transparency and silliness were my strengths. As admin, I think most of my teachers would agree.
is a safe space. Problem is the archive. :)
Those two -- w/creativity and fun -- kinda keep me going year after year, come to think of it.
We need to be able to answer those questions. How else are we going to grow? https://t.co/YhREMViaUB
Now that the good stuff is out of the way, prepare for Q2. If you're not comfortable answering this question, I can respect that.
A0: hi I'm Emmy, preservice ELD teacher from the Bay Area. I have wayy 2 many Finish Strong songs 2 pick 1.
Im loving this but I have to put the kid to sleep. I will read/post once the kid is asleep, thanks for leading it
I met him and the Irvine team. Definitely a good crew! https://t.co/g0r57EcfkE
Hi I think you met from my district this weekend! He's good people.
A2: Too much work, complex assessments, too much reading & writing. My answer? This is English class, it's important!
A2: Not enough time 4 depth. Not enough connections to today. But memorable learning experiences & challenging EQs. Woes of APUSH
A2 difficult to be critical of oneself, but I'd say they would say that we didn't always finish what we started as in projects.
A2: too long to grade; needs clearer instructions and expectations. In my defense, some confusion is by design.
Q2: Took too long to get assessments back! Lots of feedback, but took me a long time. Rethinking for next year.
A2: going too fast (I get excited), not always being clear in my instructions for projects
A2: As I look back each week, there always seems to be one student that I didn't have a personal convo with
A2: My biggest weakness is making sure everything is organized and easy for students to find when they need it.
A2: Weakness as TOSA is giving ppl too much new at once; I get excited & can overwhelm ppl sometimes
A1 Ss feedback: connections across content, relevance, class community (trust, laughter), creativity
. That happens to me too! Then my Ss get excited and it becomes a mess!
I totally relate to the clarity aspect. Sometimes they seem so clear in my head but don't come out that way...
A2: Kind of a newb. Instructions sometimes unclear, or expects too much, or expects too little. Needs to find the middleground.
This is one of the things I have been working on for several years- These days I work w/ a partner to help clarify
A2:For A LOT of reasons sometimes the "main thing" was placed in the back seat. Not OK, I must own that and it is hard to do so
this is a good "weakness" to recognize and something that is within reach to work on. Thank you for sharing.
A2 On the survey I asked Ss- got a lot of "still dont like eng but class was cool" "thx 4 the npr stuff" "I think I write better"
Guilty. Always starts w/ good intentions. Famous last words - we’ll come back to it. https://t.co/yCrUzt1crD
A2 difficult to be critical of oneself, but I'd say they would say that we didn't always finish what we started as in projects.
right! if they could just see inside my head the directions would totally make sense
OMG we are the same. I can get off subject so easily. SQUIRREL!
I am definitely guilty of this too. I get so excited about my project ideas!
A1: probably interactivity and flexibility, and lots of visual art and tech integration :)
A2: my weaknesses are unprompted follow-through (I'm often scattered) and frustration with slow learners (keeping it real!)
Yes, and I hate that I do this! I need to work on that!
A2: Finding balance between energy and calm, it transfers to my Ss when I have so much energy and I want them to be calm
That was a critique my Ss gave me during student teaching, better feedback then the principal
I started sharing mine w/a Hist teach, he gives me feedback and asks for clarification, helps a lot
A2: ss would say they want faster feedback. It’s tough. I understand their p.o.v. but want to provide meaningful narrative.
Thanks for helping me not feel so bad.
A2: My staff let me know that I sometimes have difficulty with dissent...esp. if I am excited about a new idea...
A2: last fall, I asked my Ss for advice on to support the learning of my future Ss. They wanted clearer expectations for hw
Wish I had another T who had the same subject. All alone in APUSH. Thus the need for conf & https://t.co/fwmlW8plYt
This is one of the things I have been working on for several years- These days I work w/ a partner to help clarify
A2: struggle balancing "empowerment" with "vagueness & abstraction". Ss (& Ts!) need something concrete sometimes.
A2 not enough T feedback, not enough tests/hw (yes, some said this and requested more!)
took too much time for certain projects
A close second would be my insistence on exposing them to 80s music.
My Ss always give me better feedback than Admin, Admin sees me once in awhile, Ss are there everyday
That “voice of reason” is so important. The silo is breaking down when I do this. https://t.co/PjS5dASEJI
I started sharing mine w/a Hist teach, he gives me feedback and asks for clarification, helps a lot
Ouch that doesn't seem like a weakness to me...wanna hang out near my desk? It need organization!
Lots of new participants from Berkeley tonight! New to me, at least. Good to “meet” new people, expand PLN connections.
It’s when the Ss remember that I feel worse. I sometimes hope they forget too - probably intentionally. https://t.co/ZntK8KhbVB
Thanks for helping me not feel so bad.
I do this too. I want to show less tools next year and more applications of what they know in GAFE
A2 They'd say I take too long to give feedback
That, my friend, is not a weakness...rather, that is a strength in appreciating great music! https://t.co/bEgDwiCYFc
A close second would be my insistence on exposing them to 80s music.
For those interested, this is the "Teacher Report Card" I handed out at the end of each semester.
https://t.co/haWALbSaGX
A1: Strengths - I make an honest effort to get to know kids' interests, I give more feedback than grades.
A2 also, my students would mention that my desk is messy, which... no argument there.
I'm with your students on this one! ;)
You are most welcome...P.S. loved that we had the chance to connect at ! You are the man!
Yes, I need to focus! And def keep audience in mind for PD/coaching
I would say...depends of the artists. I will withhold judgement just now.
the structure of my classroom rn makes it hard 2 have kids move around & wrk w/ each other & in groups. So collaboration needed
I can totally identify with this.
nothing wrong with that. I used to play 80s and show tunes.
I'm willing to share in my positives and negatives because I want to get better and I'm in a district where sharing this is safe.
Tough to walk that line, but in a way, students are drawn to a tight rope walker/teacher 😂 https://t.co/cKxgyUpaxO
A2: struggle balancing "empowerment" with "vagueness & abstraction". Ss (& Ts!) need something concrete sometimes.
I suggest one of your English Ts. They can help put things into perspective. Some may even have a History degree.
We just switched to flexible seating in my classroom. Collaboration explosion!
A2: Too long to grade, too many changes to procedures (1st yr back, at new school, after 3 as TOSA), not enough office hours.
technology+passion+Teacher connect to (career x practitioner) = Meaningful Personalized Learning https://t.co/FcqWGmc8Qy
Now that all cards are on the table (that you're willing to show), let's talking about improving for the final push of the year.
Thankfully I have an English degree, but the AP Eng class doesn’t align easily as it did a few years ago. https://t.co/Pm5Ewcuykl
I suggest one of your English Ts. They can help put things into perspective. Some may even have a History degree.
technology+passion+Teacher connect to (career x practitioner) = Meaningful Personalized Learning https://t.co/vMaPRGEiJg
I mean don't all of us TOSAs suffer from doing at some point
Thank you Todd, we had a good hero crew! You guided us on our journey and I love the "support 4 ever!" https://t.co/qaCMdJauUD
You are most welcome...P.S. loved that we had the chance to connect at ! You are the man!
technology+passion+Teacher connect to (career x practitioner) = Meaningful Personalized Learning https://t.co/TtNokB9B4A
A2: my students are always telling me they write too much! (It's 11th grade English) so probably that
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Q3: What can you do, with the time remaining, to enhance the strengths and/or improve the weaknesses?
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a3: Give the students choice in assignments. Make sure all grades are up to date before semester is over.
A3: Continue to add new tech/ideas into my class even with little time
yeah, I had it all anonymous so that students felt like they could let loose without retribution. Their voice matters.
A2: Some Ss would say my weakness is that "I don't teach enough" - that of course would be from the ones that don't want to think
proofing is great! I had help from (ELA) when we worked together:)
Mine too! When they still don't capitalize their "I's" I tell them this is why we have to write so much!
A3: Be mindful of my energy and how I bring it into the classroom
A3: Work more closely with experienced teachers for how to give clearer instructions, have challenging but doable expectations
Joining late, I haven’t participate in in a long time.
Q2: Another weakness -- really figuring out skillful ways to differentiate. A career-long challenge.
A3: we are doing Brown Bag STEM challenges for the next 2 weeks, Admin is worried about wifi for SBAC, so no tech for anyone else
A3 What we're doing now on this is one way we address weaknesses by networking with and learning from others
A3: For me, it's being purposeful in bringing out new ideas...give time and support...allow time for people to give alt. views!
A3: After seeing the (painful) responses, I make a strong effort to know each person and make them feel important. Try, at least.
A3: At the very least, many have at least a month. That is a long time to make a difference. Continue to build relationships
A3: I have lots of demo lessons & PD left before end of yr! Right now altering a training to better meet needs of audience
A3 As an admin, continue to support Ts in their growth and encourage summer passions which they can bring back next year!
A3 tomorrow we begin our strategic planning session for next year's PD. It will be nice to have focus for us, admins & Ts.
A3: Continue to create engaging lessons & keep up the energy, student directed work time
Differentiation is very difficult to try to work into your day
Great idea to work with other teachers. I want to do this as well.
. That sounds awesome! Where did you find these?
A3: conference with struggling students to create a finish strong plan and uplift strong students as student leaders
A3: the first thing I can do is give myself a little grace. The end of this year is not a deadline.
A3:Become organized, give students a voice,enhance teaching strategies to try for next year& grade faster. https://t.co/t8azZyPhBD
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Q3: What can you do, with the time remaining, to enhance the strengths and/or improve the weaknesses?
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Oh I want in on this please. Sounds awesome!
Q3- an area that I am always striving to be better at is, inspiring ss to write.
A3: If I could get 50% of the Ts I support conversant in before the end of the year. https://t.co/mLtWyFrqeQ
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Q3: What can you do, with the time remaining, to enhance the strengths and/or improve the weaknesses?
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A2: Not enough time spent on hands on science. They love it, but we have limited resources and space. https://t.co/GktFlMMIRW
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Q2: If your students were to grade *your class* as part of their final, what do you think they’d say are the weaknesses?
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A3: I want to end the year with mega-self assessment. Mega-super-ultra self assessment that will inspire shock and awe.
Thanks for the thought provoking questions g'night ✌🏼️✌🏼✌🏼
I hear you, Shannon. No PD, conference, or workshop I've attended has gotten me over that hurdle of differentiation.
And yet nothing so valuable and important, no?
HUGE payoff next year even in this short time this year. https://t.co/xgLdh85kLk
A3: At the very least, many have at least a month. That is a long time to make a difference. Continue to build relationships
There is something cleansing about taking a deep breath and remembering it's a marathon not a sprint! https://t.co/wwADVQU2jx
A3: the first thing I can do is give myself a little grace. The end of this year is not a deadline.
A3: spend more time thinking about the explanations/directions for my assignments. Also ask for advice from colleagues
A3: That having been said, I am continually trying to grow. That's why I blog EVERY day. That's why I just went to
It's really our school structure that prohibits it, too. I see that with my own children vividly!
A3: Continue to refine my process for collecting/evaluating/returning assignments; give Ss more chances to prove understanding.
I know. Sometimes I just get stuck and don't realize all of the levels in my classroom.
Stop grading! Why punish ss for their learning process. Look at who they are now. We shouldn’t punish for making progress.
A3: Actually, the best teaching and learning at my school often takes place at the end of the year. Ts innovate more.
A3 with trust btwn us, we are delving into hard discussions on morality, sexual violence, & redemption in Kite Runner
A3- I also want to improve on ss building digital portfolios.
Reflect until close to passing out! I have a good start...but need to reinvigorate for end of year.
A3:Provide Ss Ts and self many opportunities for reflection
A3: My end of the year goal is to have created an environment for proper reflection of learning.
I have a hard time with this one (although I did it as well). Why save the best for last?
https://t.co/QC0lRG4Zmb
A3: Actually, the best teaching and learning at my school often takes place at the end of the year. Ts innovate more.
I love the idea of a "finish strong plan". I need to do this with several students.
Self-created rubrics are the bomb, for starters.
Q3: I am going stop trying to do everything all at once..& let go of my fear of missing out https://t.co/mUqNUF0jhN
I met w/ tech coaches & ran a project by them- They poked holes in my plans & helped me make it better!
Love this! Want to intro more Ts to idea of digital portfolios next yr
I love this answer. We can still make changes, revise, retool. We don’t have to stay stuck. https://t.co/MwQBf45Wvl
A3: Continue to refine my process for collecting/evaluating/returning assignments; give Ss more chances to prove understanding.
that's what we're here for!
Thanks, now I've got two things to work on this summer! :)
Q3: combine visual art element w/ collaborative element; thus, using strength to build the weakness
Lots of struggle for me this year. Only thing PD has done is make me realize how much my Ss need it.
I think its knowing you can try new things w/o such a BIG fear of failure
A3: Want to get feedback about how to improve writing instruction. It’s our most difficult hurdle.
Hmmmm…no one said “prepare for standardized tests.”
Absolutely! If you are in High School many places differentiate by class level alone. https://t.co/ZMpGQO0RRI
It's really our school structure that prohibits it, too. I see that with my own children vividly!
I truly think that this is a perfect ex of why Teacher PD MUST be differentiated, too!
A3:Continue to engage them w content that makes them curious. Ts please step away from the DVD player😂 https://t.co/1Ed0wmEvQR
We are so fortunate to have her with us.
. My Ts do the same thing. I think it's the sigh of relief after State Testing. Feels safer to take risks.
If you haven't yet, scribble down your answer for Q3. "Like" it. Just remember it, then aim to do something about it.
A3 Personalize hw, more individual check-ins, ask Ss to help create final (required) Increase S direction of class instr/assgnmt
And if in elem school (like my sons), it's .
A3cont: Also focusing on getting more S feedback on demo lessons--getting good info on ways I can improve!
I'm here for moral support.
Some powerful words to live by there...Believe in yourselves. Dream. Try. Do Good...love it! https://t.co/bqbljPWZEB
A3:Continue to engage them w content that makes them curious. Ts please step away from the DVD player😂 https://t.co/1Ed0wmEvQR
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Q4: How do/will your students know that you value their learning through the last day of school?
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A4: Keep checking in with Ss on their progress/struggles, positive feedback, lessons with meaning & purpose, clear objectives
Ugh I don't want to go, ss have state testing and I have to prep for performance task. Nervous
Heard of them, but haven't tried. I'm super interested & would love to try in our district
There is a lot of pressure to improve test scores. I think once it's over, Ts feel more free to improvise.
Q4: I think it's more important for the students themselves to value their own learning. I'm there to push them to see that.
A4: By continuing effective communication and staying in-tune to different learning styles. https://t.co/3uoSczxcEL
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Q4: How do/will your students know that you value their learning through the last day of school?
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Ugh. That will be me next week.
A4: We work up to the bell every day. I don't think they expect me to start giving them "free time" any time soon.
A3: Build/scaffold/spiral on everything learned - recognize what's been learned has meaning https://t.co/hj5z6oJfHJ
A3:Provide Ss Ts and self many opportunities for reflection
A4: Keep bulletin boards up, don't get lazy, find ways to challenge/push Ss outside of their comfort zone
A4: Gonna miss the last 9 days grading APUSH exams. Gotta figure out how to keep them motivated on their final project.
a4: I am planning a lot of fun writing activites, we do a book chat in the last week, and digital portfolio.
A4: b/c at their graduation, I will speak abt. each of them as an individual. I will show them I’ve listened. I will probably cry.
A4: keep pushing, ask hard Questions and expect answers
A4- Ss will know that I value their learning because of my excitement for learning. I/we are all still learning, &
it is awesome.
The good news is we get to share the passion for change with the people around us. https://t.co/br3pato6qb
And if in elem school (like my sons), it's .
A4 Stay available via Twitter and or email. I have Ss in college who still contact me for help.
A4: Through celebration of their successes and failures. And follow up with them next year.
We have a coach for the coaches who's been helping me with this. Noticing the classrm Ts like hearing the feedback too
A4 Next year we want to build an online community & to help Ts support each other & to help coaches interact when not on site.
A4 (cont): I pointed out testing comes 85% through the yr. SURELY the state doesn't expect us to twiddle thumbs for 15% of the yr.
A4: If they () still want to/actually do use the tools and lesson ideas I showed them/we worked on next year.
Don't show movies, continue to plan as though it is the first day and allow students to reflect
Sorry to bug out - so much to prepare for tomorrow and this week! I'll read the Storify! Have a wonderful week, all!
A4: By not giving into occassional "But Mr. G, it's the last 4 weeks, can we just watch a movie?" comments https://t.co/48yt9ow105
A4: Too many of our students rely on our classrooms as a safe space. What does is say when we emphasize "The Countdown" of days?
A4: Continue to encourage them to try their best until the very last day of school.Keep providing engaging lessons and assignments
A4 I am providing opportunities for revision on some work & a great interest project & chance to prep for finals at a patient pace
A4 If you have valued S learning throughout the year, just keep on keeping on. Provide fun discovery experiences, give kudos.
It also says some weird stuff about when and where learning occurs and when and where it doesn't...
A4: Using our last Staff Meeting to learn not vent! Starting their summer with homework! :)
A4: (admin) give opportunities for summer PD, talk excitedly with teachers about 1:1 efforts and needs, I'm sorta in 2016-17 mode!
A4:I give a TedStyle talk that outlines every kids' strengths/uniqueness. No dry eyes by the time I'm done😭 https://t.co/BAzc1UWAo8
This is my first year teaching but I hope to be able to follow up with my students next year too.
A4 I don't see end of the year differently. Cont. high expectations, creative learning opps., lead into to next yrs. history class
a student told me that once, never used the term w/Ss again. Used edmodo to keep a classroom during summer
A4: Showing I value T lrning by cont to reach out, celebrate successes in newsletter, planning/promoting end of yr/summer PD
Agree. Our words & actions show what we value. When we say ___ days to go, what is it showing we value? https://t.co/vfCGP8C0WO
A4: Too many of our students rely on our classrooms as a safe space. What does is say when we emphasize "The Countdown" of days?
A4 Continued support - Everyday of the school year :)
this was pre-lms and google classroom. Didnt use twitter for edu then either
What tool are you going to use? We've tried several... nothing has stuck
Q3: continue 2 challenge right up til the last day (4 instance, we jst moved 10 kids up 2 level 2 ELD despite less thn 1 mo left)
A4: There needs to be continuous acknowledgement of effort and achievement. Praise effort and encourage Ss to keep trying.
A2: That happened. Kids drew pictures. Also their Ps paid my salary. So I heard right away if ANYthing was wrong.
A4: Take a moment to chat with them in the nxt mnth to say something great about them F2F. I'm sure y'all saw the FB vid
What a fantastic and thoughtful idea!
165 students makes this difficult. I HAVE done a memory video of the things we have done during the year. https://t.co/ZcsJThutpx
A4:I give a TedStyle talk that outlines every kids' strengths/uniqueness. No dry eyes by the time I'm done😭 https://t.co/BAzc1UWAo8
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Q5: Before your students leave for the summer, how do you plan to make them feel valued?
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It's been fun chatting, . Gomez out! 🎤
A4: that there's an end 2 their safe space :/ yikes. Never really thought of it that way before
working on summer PD, new ELAELD adoption, and adding 7 STEAM TOSAs. I am in next year now.
That you can’t wait until it’s over. Totally unacceptable.
Q5: Last semester I wrote each student a short note about how I enjoyed having them in my class and why. I hope to do that again.
Student reflecting, hard to fit in but super important. Loved doing it at the end of the school year. https://t.co/OqqcZQhU6P
Don't show movies, continue to plan as though it is the first day and allow students to reflect
A5: Write each student a little note highlighting a positive moment from the school yr, recognize one measurable example of growth
A5: students AND staff will be celebrated. Good stuff for Teacher Appreciation Week, but also great student recognitions coming!
A5: The last week, I pulled each student out for 3-5 minutes and highlighted their year. Took a while, worth every minute.
Thank you for the awesome chat! Gtg a little early tonight. Daughter has the cramps! Catcha later!
Worked w/a T who announced "the countdown" in hall after spring brk. Only time I told a T " stop that" in frnt of Ss.
Good point. Hadn't thought of it that way before. Thanks for raising my awareness. https://t.co/eLf1uFXnTj
A4: Too many of our students rely on our classrooms as a safe space. What does is say when we emphasize "The Countdown" of days?
Love this idea! Personal face to face time is so valuable!
a5: I usually give out fun awards to each student that match their personality.
I did this last semester and the students really enjoyed it. Great idea :)
A5: We have a schoolwide Celebration of Learning. Everyone participates.
Look fwd to hearing how it goes. Trying Google+ this yr, but still need to help most Ts activate their accts I realized
I've had decipher Ss bc some have only been in 1stGr. It's like learning babies' sounds + what that means.
A5 I did a Happy Thx U More Please inspired activity D1 make others happy D2 thx someone D3 put in work on a passion
What a gr8 idea! https://t.co/uTT99lxtv4
a5: I usually give out fun awards to each student that match their personality.
A5 I spend the year giving Ss friendly, funny nicknames. I make it a point for all to leave with one that I will always remember
A5: The focus of my report card is a narrative about each ss. I take quite a bit of time to reflect on each one individually.
The Facebook posts about “Only x days” or “How Ts feel after a break” or “Last weekend of…” make me sad. https://t.co/oWnZaRtPmT
That you can’t wait until it’s over. Totally unacceptable.
ya thats the kicker. I want to pilot it w/our Digital Institute teachers & see how it goes.
oooh, a narrative. I love the way this sounds. Do you have a blog post about this one?
model valuing others by the way you honor all. Students, teachers, support staff admin, and parents. Make someone's day
A5 When I return to classroom, tosa now, I'd like to end year with some micro credentialing for Ss to honor successes
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Q6: How does (or could) your *school* ensure that all students feel like they matter at the end of the year?
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I love that idea. Thanks!
A5:My yearbook signing skills are on fleek! Ask me 2 sign your yearbook & I'll write a novel about how AWESOME u are! 👍👍👍👍👍
A5: The end of yr T/S relations is always the best & most celebrated-value is there when the guard is down lning env is respected
A1 they’re a rowdy batch of badasses. IDK what they’d say, but prolly fun, intense, memorable, tight knit, and bad jokes
you're welcome, and my intent was not to look down or cast shade. Awareness is certainly key.
and on the heels of their responses about me not valuing them enough, it was necessary.
A6:I think we have student awards but other than that not really sure.
A6 micro credentialing for Ss to honor successes, but schoolwide. Takes work, but Ss love the recognition
A6: we do a end of year slideshow, make sure every student is in at least 2 pics if not more, whole school watches in the gym
HS art history T gave dinner & awards. Mine "I've been lying on the floor a little too long" award (w/art)
A6: Tell them and show them. For my Ts I want them to know they matter as they finish strong! They do awesome & stressful work.
Already do bday and some thx cards. I'm feeling challenged to do a card for every staff member before summer! A5.2
a6: Not sure. I am interested to hear what other people have to say.
A6: I'd love to see more Admin involvement to celebrate community & success among Ss & Ts. End of year rally too 4 school pride
A5- I am thinking of creating badges for each of my Ss. Not sure I can make it happen w/o making myself crazy.
I really want to do this at my site next year
A6 Ts or any adult on campus mentoring/listening 2 help Ss fulfill their goals & connect 2 the campus
A2 units of study don’t have calendars; I don’t give enough answers; discussions are unstructured
We used G+ communities to facilitate creation of CCSS Scope & seq 2 years ago. Dist-wide initiative can help.
Takes a lot of coordination I'm sure but sounds well worth it. How large is your school?
Q5: Read aloud "Oh The Places You'll Go" & try not to cry. Remind them they always know where to find me if they need me
If you want the "Teacher Report Card" sheet so you can create a quick form of your own, here you go:
https://t.co/6ovR5NzYsz
Tried G+ Ts didn't look at it enough to make it useful.Interested in seeing your experience. https://t.co/KkpE0ijcuK
Look fwd to hearing how it goes. Trying Google+ this yr, but still need to help most Ts activate their accts I realized
A6: Make a point to tell them personally in an exit interview. There is nothing like a f2f conversation.
My end of year vid is a labor of love. It takes a long time. Find the right music. Add some video. But so worth it
A2: Also, my 2cents. I'm uncomfortable w/T🍎s sharing their weaknesses in Public on Twitter. Teacher Evals. https://t.co/hS5vVUyXWx
we're small, about 500 kids, Yearbook T works hard and a bunch of us help identify kids so everyone is represented
What a GREAT idea! Not sure I can fit it in- but I would love to (I teach Freshmen) https://t.co/rMUJjCnT2c
Q5: Read aloud "Oh The Places You'll Go" & try not to cry. Remind them they always know where to find me if they need me
A6:Our Blessings in a Bag program continues on through the summer to ensure all Ss and families have food on the table...
A4 our super epic final & presentations will take us to the last day. We’re always getting our learn on
I know of a Top10 that keeps their 📞lines open during the Summer in case Ss need "support."
A6: I'm just spitballing here, but maybe we need to enable a mentoring session for EVERY student (check-in w/ caring adult)
A6 I always have big plans, but then the last day sneaks up on me, and then they're gone. Poof!
Hopefully, I let them know all yr
A6: Since my "students" are Ts, & they're at 4 sites, I need to collab with some Principals to consider this Q.
Ah, makes sense. Manageable. My school: nearly 3,000 Ss
A5 I always have big plans, but then the last day sneaks up on me, and then they're gone. Poof!
Hopefully, I let them know all yr
A5 I tell my Ss I love them, bc I do, & take their feedback on how to (re)design the course for next year’s class. they make it.
It sounds like a lot of tonight’s answers are things that should be done year round.
Something we rarely do in this wonderful profession is reflect. Hopefully this evening's chat gave you the chance to do that.
I still have my boys' K memory books they are in their 20's and 30's now Important for families to know their kids mattered to you
oh, yeah, that is probably not feasible at your site
seriously! Every kid could use something like an IEP w/personalized learning & career goals w/a plan for graduation k12
Let loose, have fun, participate in rallies, get their faces/voices out there among students, show a diff. side
Maybe you were reminded of something amazing. Maybe you saw something new. As says, try before you're done.
If you Tweet great moments in class during year, use to make a social media yearbook for Ss
Hey I used to finally participate in my first FULL (first full chat) Thanks for the push!
Thank you for a great chat tonight!
& more Admin participation & support eads to more Ts doing it & will upcycle the whole thing.
My admin and I just had this convo. Every ss deserves that level of intense reflection and action. https://t.co/Iddo1EUzW6
seriously! Every kid could use something like an IEP w/personalized learning & career goals w/a plan for graduation k12
A4: Value learning? Not an issue.
Kids were so cute - they'd start asking each other ?s I'd ask them to help them summarize.
