#TOSAChat is a chat on Twitter every Monday night at 8pm PST for TOSAs (teachers on special assignment), including all edtech and instructional coaches.
Hey #TOSAchat! Karly, tech TOSA and computer science teacher from Concord, CA here. Best thing about February is that little league starts and I get to see Jake play.
Hey #TOSAchat! Knikole...instructional technology coordinator from Dallas. I love #ValentinesDay and the fact that everyone is tuned into the #BlackExcellence I celebrate 365 days a year during the month of February.
👋🏾 Hi It’s Nyree from SoCal and I am an Edtech CPS. My favorite thing about February is it’s my bday month and lots of people celebrate with me. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
Hey there! Nick from CA Bay Area here! February always makes me grateful for the spring which is waiting right around the corner. Did some early spring cleaning this weekend! Ready for the warmth to return! #tosachat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @Jyoung1219
Hey everyone! I am a student in the UTeach program at The University of Texas at Tyler! My favorite thing about February is celebrating Valentines Day! #tosachat
Hey everyone! I am a student in the UTeach program at The University of Texas at Tyler! My favorite thing about February is celebrating Valentines Day! #tosachat#Sp19edfb4338
Hey, #tosachat! Jody from La Habra, chiming in from kids' sports. Will do my best to stay in the chat tonight but it's pretty iffy! Favorite thing about Feb is that it's our rainy season!
A1: we are beginning our space unit so I’m tying in Hidden Figures and Mae Jemison. George Washington Carver is one of my favorite inventors to talk about #TOSAchat
A1 My parents come to mind...both first generation college students & my dad desegregated public schools in my home town. Their work & experiences greatly impacted my decision to become an educator. #TOSAchat
A1: it’s recently that I learned about these women (and sadly, through an entertainment medium), but I’m enchanted by Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Their contributions to NASA, mathematics, engineering, and computer science were/are amazing! #tosachat
Thanks for inviting me. State Cup is a huge soccer tournament that starts with 3 guaranteed games and then win or go home. My 13yo daughter's team starts this weekend. #BestOfTheBest#TOSAChat
A1: it’s recently that I learned about these women (and sadly, through an entertainment medium), but I’m enchanted by Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Their contributions to NASA, mathematics, engineering, and computer science were/are amazing! #TOSAchat
A1. I have an Uncle that was my Superintendent and an Uncle that is the 1st African American animator die Disney. They stressed education and had high expectations for me. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
I loved the movie and also celebrating these women. You don’t know know until you know. It helped me dig a little further into other areas of content. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
A1: This is a great question and clearly I have more growth here. Looking forward to learning more. As an English teacher, I ❤️ Alice Walker, Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Lorraine Hansberry. #TOSAchat
A local hero of ours is @Timbradleyjr. He has been such an inspiration to our community. So many of our students can point to him a strong role model that made it out of the valley and came back to help our local community. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Timbradleyjr
A1: Bessie Coleman, Mary Elizabeth Bowser, Gwendolyn Brooks, Mae Jemison, GW Carver, Booker T., Angela Davis, Benjamin Banneker, Annie Malone... just to name a few. #TOSAChat
A1 There too many to count. I love poet Langston Hughes, Jackie Robinson, Frederick Douglass, & Barack Obama. I know I’m missing a lot of people. I had a unit titled Voices of a Movement. #BlackHistoryMonth2019#TOSAchat
A2: Another great question. My school and district has had to do some deep work as the community is growing in terms of immigrant populations but as a town there are very few African Americans. It has been important for our school to go inward and ask why. #TOSAchat
@EdTechAri took time to plan nice discussion questions tonight. How do YOU take the time to learn and connect with #BlackHistory all year long? I'm interested to learn how we are all doing the work to connect with American history outside of February. #TOSAchat
We have MANY MANY MANY professional athletes that mentor in their community, provide assistance , and come back to speak with the different Ss in the district. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
A3: Our school just had Celebrate Diversity Week and students represented different countries to teach, learn and celebrate. I joined a group called @BAbridgebuilder to learn more and grow in my own support of others. My school is working with @EpochEducation as well. #TOSAchat
A2: We read about integration, Montgomery Bus Boycott and Nashville Sit-ins, and analyzed Ruby Bridges in #The Problem We All Live With. It was important for students to see how far we’ve come but how far we need to go. #tosachat
Yes. He came back to live in our community and his wife has built local businesses in our area. He just retired as a professional boxer but he does come back to speak. I believe he is currently working with ESPN. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@iluvteaching72, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Timbradleyjr
Since I can address all subj, I have the privilege & freedom to tie in topics, including historical ppl who have impacted our lives like those mentioned above. I've created lessons allowing Ss to explore, investigate, and engage with prim sources abt historical figures. #TOSAChat
A3 We have used @Flipgrid to allow Ps to connect with Ss at school to share their life. Ss have presented All about me to their classmates. However, want to work on building more cultural connections through books, videos, etc. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Flipgrid, @TosaChat
That’s AWESOME! Coming back shows the community that it’s not a bad place to be. We don’t need to get out but build up what we have. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@EdTechEddie, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Timbradleyjr, @TosaChat
I listen then I try to use what others teach me. I try to hear what the community is saying and push my own preconceived notions aside. It's not always easy but I'm always trying. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
A3: left as a sub plan, but it’s opening so many conversations: gave students a list of Black inventors, those chose one and researched the person and invention then created a Flipgrid video. They have been watching each other’s and asking questions, its so awesome #TOSAchat
A3: I don’t have any resources in particular but by building trusting relationships, asking questions that want honest answers to, and providing an inviting and comfortable space for Ss, we can empower Ss to share their cultural heritage and family history. #TOSAchat
During the winter holidays, one of our schools honored multiple cultures by creating displays in the library for students to learn -- Dia de los Muertos, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas. It was a great first step. Next step is reaching out to the community. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@iluvteaching72, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Flipgrid
A3: In the classroom I used Google My Maps to introduce my students to where I was born and lived in India. I also showed them areas I still visit today. I think this is a great tool for students to share about themselves and their history. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
I agree with you Karly. We ALL come to a lesson or coaching with our own experiences. I am always thinking, how can I be a blessing to this person or Ss? When we learn from each other it’s builds empathy for others. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@KarlyMoura, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
Lots of credit to @MrsRubyRivera. My wife does a really great job of supporting as many different groups throughout the year. She organizes different cutural event throughout the year and has organized different parent advisory groups to help them elevate their voice. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @MrsRubyRivera
Q2: I love what Michelle Obama said about black history recently, which is there are lots of black people making a difference and influencing history right now. Currently, one of our own #ocps music teachers won a Grammy, Dr Jeffery Redding from @WestOrange_OCPS#TOSAchat
I used to teach 6th grade Ancient Civ and I LOVED teaching about India!! I’m fascinated by the culture (and obsessed with the food, honestly). It’s on my bucket list of places to go. Would love to hear more from you! #tosachat
In reply to
@Msbpatel, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
Great idea! Doing this at the beginning of a school year would be impactful for the whole class. And then have them research someone else’s location to learn about them. 🤔 #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@Msbpatel, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
A4 By honoring the incredible heros from our past and by giving our students the ability to share about their lives and the lives of those who came before them year round.#TOSAChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
Our school district has created an AFRICAN AMERICAN PARENET ADVISORY COMMITTEE (AAPAC) to help bridge Ps concerns with district employees. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@knikole, @EdTechEddie, @TosaChat, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @MrsRubyRivera, @TosaChat
The students loved it. I like the idea of researching someone else's location. Even taking it into historical figures or characters in literature. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@iluvteaching72, @TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
Yes! I couldn't have said this better myself. Ss need to see and know that history is being made right here and now. Congratulations, Dr. Redding! #TOSAchat
Q2: I love what Michelle Obama said about black history recently, which is there are lots of black people making a difference and influencing history right now. Currently, one of our own #ocps music teachers won a Grammy, Dr Jeffery Redding from @WestOrange_OCPS#TOSAchat
A4: most of my students do not look like me, so while I do very much try to connect with them I also seek out people that do look like them to show them examples of how anyone can do anything. Scientists span all cultures and races #TOSAchat
A4 I also think we need to make sure we honor our current Ss and Staff. Highlight what ALL people are doing that impact our school. Not just in February. I always felt important in February but not the rest of the months going to school. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
A4: First step is relationship building and connection. I would love to brainstorm about a more consistent and visable support and encouragement strategy. #TOSAchat
Love this idea! Can you image how students must feel to see their cultures honored and celebrated? Great first steps! Please share next steps & successes with us soon. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@peerlessgreen, @iluvteaching72, @TosaChat, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Flipgrid
A4: I know this is old school, but I remember when we had Family Night and everyone brought a dish to share and stories from how they were raised to go along with the food from their culture or upbringing- it really brings people together! #TOSAchat
A2: When I taught in Pasadena, CA, using the history of the city allowed me to bring in a plethora of AA who made an impact on the city - Octavia Butler, building 210 freeway, designating NW Pasadena 4 AA domestic wrks, blding La Canada schl once Muir High integrated. #TOSAChat
Me too! I think when we are intentional we will see the impact. It will take time to pull the resources but I would like look into this also. 🙋🏾♀️ #TOSAchat@TosaChat
....because FOOD! My church still does this, and I love it. Breaking bread with others in your community and learning about their various cultures = WIN. #TOSAchat
It really makes a difference for people to feel line their voice is heard AND matters. When you feel helpless, your actions will reflect that. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@EdTechEddie, @knikole, @TosaChat, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @MrsRubyRivera, @TosaChat
I know exactly how they feel being honored and celebrated. As one of a very small handful of Jewish educators in my district (at this time, to my knowledge, we do not have any Jewish students), the gesture of including Hanukkah was really moving. Will def share more!! #tosachat
In reply to
@knikole, @iluvteaching72, @TosaChat, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Flipgrid
A5 Being intentional in seeking a voice from our African American Ss is a start. Allowing them to express their learning in multiple ways and setting high expectations for them as well as all other Ss. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
A4: Giving them a platform in the classroom, in their schl comm., and globally to connect & share abt thr heritage (personally & globally). Allowing this to occur all year long, intertwine AA yearlong in aspects of subjects (math, history, science, etc.) #TOSAchat
A4: It's important for all students to be able to see themselves represented in education. All students including African Americans need to see themselves represented in books we use, historical figures we teach and current role models that have an impact on history. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
I love it Jody. I think it’s important for us to all teach the Ss more than the stereotypes they may have already learned. That is what I strive to do and learn from. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@peerlessgreen, @knikole, @TosaChat, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @Flipgrid, @TosaChat
A4b. Also, bring in their fam & AA folks who demonstrate impactful & positive things around the world. Use @SkypeClassroom, Google Hangouts, virtual connections, and in-person opportunities. #OpenYourDoors Just don't host "days/weeks", weave into what you are teaching. #TOSAChat
A5: I think we need to be better listeners and make sure that all voices are not just heard but honored. I also think those of us who are white need to do some honest work and go inward so we can be better at support. Currently reading @WhiteFragility with a group. #TOSAchat
We have a high school that allows the Ss to do spoken word and rap about their feelings at lunch. the Ss love the outlet and the other Ss also like to share and respond. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
One of my favorite things to do with students was teaching them how to build an online presence. We started with basic blogs but it is a great way to show students that their voice can be projected to anyone and everyone. #20Time#TOSAchat
Start w/your Ss, ask them what they know & want 2 know. Use prim sources, read daily/weekly pic bks address topics "The Green Book", "Sweet Smell of Roses", "The Case for Loving" just 2 name few. I used excerpts from bks during daily journals wrtng. It builds curiosity. #TOSAChat
A6. I would like work at building lessons and activities that connect content with AA throughout the year. My goal is for ALL Ss to feel valued in school. I didn’t feel that until college. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
These needs to happen regardless of the culture/color of Ss. Even if you don't have AA Ss in your class, expose your Ss to all cultures/race in order 2 build empathy, well rounded citizens, expose them to those who don't look like them. #TOSAChat
A4: It's important for all students to be able to see themselves represented in education. All students including African Americans need to see themselves represented in books we use, historical figures we teach and current role models that have an impact on history. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219
I didn't feel seen and valued as an African American educator until I was in my 30s. Knowing this feeling & acknowledging that it exists...even if your privilege protects you from ever feeling this way changes the way you view voice & choice for your students. #TOSAchat
A6. I would like work at building lessons and activities that connect content with AA throughout the year. My goal is for ALL Ss to feel valued in school. I didn’t feel that until college. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
In reply to
@TosaChat, @knikole, @annkozma723, @EdTechAri, @TeachingTechNix, @peerlessgreen, @KarlyMoura, @kmartintahoe, @EdTechEddie, @edtechchamp, @nzefeldt, @Jyoung1219, @TosaChat
For sure. I agree. When I understand how someone else thinks and loves, I am a better communicator with that person. I need to learn more to do better. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
A6: Rethink the stories told in all subjects. @EpochEducation asked us to look at, look for, and share the counter stories. How can we not just work to "sprinkle in" this honoring but really build curriculum with full stories as the foundation? #TOSAchat
A6: I recently had this discussion with a colleague- a T’s 3rd grade Social studies lesson, the magazine they use tells the same story, but each week the moment in history is re-told from a different Point of View of who it affected-that is powerful #TOSAchat
In terms of working together, I think continuing conversations like this one a great way to learn from one another, and we can bring our new understandings back to colleagues and Ss. We need to know better so we can do better. #TOSAchat
