#LearnLAP occurs on Mondays starting at 7pm Central Time. Guest moderators and participants discuss topics from author Paul Solarz's book Learn Like a PIRATE.
Welcome to #LearnLAP. Share who you are, where you teach, and your role.
Don't forget questions will be with the format Q1, Q2, Q3...
Tweet using the hashtag #LearnLAP and the corresponding A1, A2, A3, etc in front of your answer.
Welcome to #LearnLAP. Share who you are, where you teach, and your role.
Don't forget questions will be with the format Q1, Q2, Q3...
Tweet using the hashtag #LearnLAP and the corresponding A1, A2, A3, etc in front of your answer.
Hi! Aubrey from snowy Alberta 🇨🇦. Happy to be here and dive into a #LearnLAP chat!
Past teach/princ/supe, working with leadership teams, presenting, consulting, etc.
I'm Paul Solarz, a 4th grade teacher from Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Extremely thankful to have @drmcclard moderating tonight's chat on "Leadership!" #LearnLAP
Hi #LearnLAP! Marisa Thompson, HS ELA & University of San Diego Professional Development, Carlsbad CA. I blog about what works in my classroom at https://t.co/CoLG0lTVSk and so enjoy sharing resources and celebrating fellow educators as co-host of #PLNedchat! #UnlimitedTeacher
Karl. 3rd-6th gr basic skills ELA teacher from the Jersey shore.
Good evening, #LearnLAP!
Just rolling off an intense chat on slavery and how we teach it over at #sschat. Learned a ton. A little brain fried, but ready to keep the learning going.
How ya doin'?
Welcome to #LearnLAP. Share who you are, where you teach, and your role.
Don't forget questions will be with the format Q1, Q2, Q3...
Tweet using the hashtag #LearnLAP and the corresponding A1, A2, A3, etc in front of your answer.
Robert here from Los Angeles fresh off of a successful teachers' strike last month. ELA teacher, author, and host of #LearnLAP on March 4. Join me as we discuss the #BenefitMindset. 💙
A1: Early in my princ/supe careers, I learned PLC's directly from the late Rick DuFour, who was incredibly generous with his time and advice. I learned how to keep the PLC process true and let fun and personal style color my leadership.
I try emulate him to this day. #learnlap
A1 RBG! I’mm deeply inspired by Justice Ginsburg for her unwavering authentic and deep intellectual curiosity. She leads by example and uses her strengths to serve others. #LearnLAP
I have to go full-on fictional here.
Mr Holland, Mr Feeny, and Mr. Keating.
high-passion, for-the-kids first, stand-up-for-principles eduheroes.
#LearnLAP
A leader I would like to be like is @KristinKSmall! She is my AP and a lead by example leader!! She looks at every situation with a positive lens, she is always thinking of ways to help all students/staff #becomebetter! She is intentional with everything she does! #learnlap
A1: Coach K @DukeMBB. His ability to take players from all different backgrounds and parts of the country and build a cohesive family is impressive. #LearnLAP
A1 I have two @BethHouf because she is awesome and does a lot of terrific things I. Her building and Dan Gable a childhood hero and one of the best coaches that have ever lived. #learnlap
A1) One leader I try to emulate is Walt Disney in that I want to bring out abilities and parts of my Ss they don’t know they have and add wonder and magic to everyday #LearnLAP
A1: Mike Schmoker. I think education is incredibly complex. We have to focus on what matters. Focus, simplicity, and being intentional are so important. Not many people are putting this argument into the marketplace of ideas. #learnlap
A1: I strive to be a caring leader. I have 3 people that come to mind who really just showed me that caring is the best way to organize a school and move a school cultural from point A to point B. #LearnLAP
A1
I would like to be like my high school art teacher because she always went above and beyond for her students and does not stop until a problem is solved. #learnlap
A1 I have had the honor to work with amazing administrators. I would like to emulate each of them and @JayBilly2. I love the way Mr. Billy builds a positive culture in his school. His book Lead with Culture is amazing. #learnlap
A1 S/O to my superintendent @ScottMuri who has brought innovation to @SBISD
He is relational and has taken time to help guide me on my learners journey- pushed me to come back to a campus #LearnLAP
I find #MLK to be beyond inspirational. He struggled to do what was right in the face of great adversity and believed in the potential of his brothers and sisters. #LearnLAP
A1: @cultofpedagogy@TechNinjaTodd@dbc_inc are leaders I want to emulate because of being a model of a learner, going all in for kids, and for reinvesting not the profession (respectively). #LearnLAP
A1 So many real life leadership examples! @AnnickRauch is always pushing herself. @jmattmiller is always sharing & making others around him better. @Joe_Sanfelippo is high energy & it is contagious. @mradamwelcome is determined & always keeps kids 1st SOOOO many more! #LearnLAP
A1: There are a LOT of great leaders out there! However, one I would like to be like is Nanette Clatterbuck, who was one of my college professors. She is kind, intelligent, encouraging, a great listener, and always willing to share her knowledge. #LearnLAP
A1: Samwise Gamgee. He leads but never dominates. He is kind, and brave and virtuous. He represents big leadership in the most unassuming place. #LearnLAP
A1. I’m not sure why, but Oprah came to mind! She is fiercely driven, does not let negative people/circumstances get her down, and she is constantly trying help, bring awareness, and give others a voice. I love that about her. There are many other great leaders, too!! #LearnLAP
A1 continued- he puts children at the heart of what we do, and has helped reignite a 🔥 as we put the #WholeChild at the forefront of what we do #LearnLAP
A1 I have had the honor to work with amazing administrators. I would like to emulate each of them and @JayBilly2. I love the way Mr. Billy builds a positive culture in his school. His book Lead with Culture is amazing. #learnlap
A1: Since it can be fictional, I will go with my favorite superhero Spider-Man. He is empathetic, has a sense of humour, is a critical thinker, puts others before himself, certainly knows how to communicate, bring people together, and inspire others. #learnlap
I’ve learned so much about him from interviews of people who worked for him and he had such a nack for seeing things in others that they never saw in themselves #goals#learnlap
A1 We all can follow the leader of Dr. King when he asks us life's most important question: "What are you doing for others?" #LearnLAPhttps://t.co/qeixFWdi9a
My role models are @tracy9535@RIsaacRivas they lead from the heart and are fearless. They live the Rise by Lifting Others as a mantra on a daily basis ❤️ #LearnLAP
A1: I would like to emulate my ancestor, Elizabeth Cady Stanton. She stood up for women's rights when so many, women included, told her to sit down and wait her turn. I want to open doors for my ss so that they can confidently stand up as she did. #learnlap
Omg it makes Ss love learning and excited to come to school! I got the biggest compliment from a Ss when they said they never wanted to miss school this year and they were not dreading as they did years prior #LearnLAP
A1 @MrAshantiBranch. The work he does empowers and humbles. If you;re looking for someone to come reach your heart and those of your colleagues, Ashanti Branch. #LearnLAP
A1: Too many to list, but I would say those who I follow in my PLN who always offer leadership to others, who provide words of encouragement and who always seek ways to impact others in a positive way. #LearnLAP
A1. I'd say two people, B. Houf as a leader, and the other would be a teacher I had for Greek Mythology in high school , Mr. Marino. A great personality, makes you laugh everyday and smile at their craziness, but was always there for his Ss. #learnlap
Dropping in late from New Jersey where I do lots of different things with and for kids. My hero leader is Miss Frizzle. Take Chances. Make Mistakes. Get Messy. #learnLAP
A2: I try to open up lots of opportunities for student voice and choice and support. As we have been working on website design the past week, I have allowed Ss to sign up to be "tech advisors" to support classmates. Very successful! #learnlap
A1 Ss make every instructional decision they’re qualified to make! Due dates, assessment policies, group norms, yay/nay on edtech tools, assessment methods. That’s what #studentvoice is all about #LearnLAP
A2: I honestly do not do this enough, but believe that Ss should be trusted with opportunities to try and fail, receive guidance and then try and fail again and again. #LearnLAP
A2 - I give my kiddos #GiveMeFive powers, encourage them to make decisions freely without permission, and let the run an entire school day on #SilentDay!!! :) #LearnLAP
Leaders I aspire to be like are my wonderful administrators. They have been so supportive throughout my time as a substitute through my now; my first two years of teaching. I hope that as I grow in this district I can be someone that is looked up to like them! #learnLAP
A2 My 2nd graders take understanding metacognition very seriously. They are learning to make decisions based on their learning needs. We are working on "owning our learning" every day. #learnlap
A2
In the classroom I am working on, students are able to have a say in how they complete a project. They also get a choice in what they are reading. In my future classroom, I want to allow students a chance to learn about something that is important to them. #learnlap
A3: I start with a problem and give them room and any materials they need to solve the problem. I also start with a question and ask how can we solve this question and off they go. I give them space to think and come up with a plan that drives their learning. Co-pilot! #LearnLAP
A2: I like to provide Ss with numerous times to make choices throughout the day. It is so powerful when they take control of their learning, also provides an opportunity to talk about the consequences of our choices - both positive and negative #LearnLAP
A2 We talk a lot about voice and choice in education, but when we allow kids to follow their passions and lead, only then does learning come alive with meaning and purpose. #LearnLAP
A2: Ss are increasingly allowed to decide how/what manner they'll display learning; they have optional homework to decide what is most worth their time; also rolled out choice board that provided decisions about how to learn content #LearnLAP
If you want to get technical, participation in class and turning in work is a choice students make every class. I let them know that their grades represent their choices #LearnLAP
In ELA I try to give them non-negotiables to complete. I try to make them framework components but allow for choice, voice, and intentional decisions. Let them lead me to their thinking and processing. I'm not 100% great on pulling it off. But it's my goal
#LearnLAP
A2 in my role as an Assistant Principal I work with Ts on different service learning projects such as our Jingle Jog & Holiday Festival which was the idea of teen leadership & we just brought their passions and ideas to life! @MrsCamposLMS@NeuWhitney#LearnLAP
A2 In our class, students make decisions daily: discussion focus, essay topics, methods, even due dates. We work together, are explicit about how, when, and why they are making these decisions. It is not chaos; it's learning and self-management. It's practiced maturity. #LearnLAP
A2: I collect problems from the community for students to solve. Students choose the problem and they decide the process to a solution. Service-learning benefits the child and the community. Plus, they know any solution is better than just letting the problem remain. #LearnLAP
A1: I would like to be a leader like Abe. Lincoln. I have found that his willingness to include those who disagree with him is an ex. of what lead. need to hear. Getting all perspectives is important, but in the end you are responsible for making tough decisions. #Learnlap
A1: Steve Jobs, not because he had great interpersonal skills, because he didn't, but because he had vision and followed through to amazingness. #LearnLAP
A1: I'm not sure I can accurately articulate why, but I often find myself drawn to Angela Merkel. One of my favorite quotes from her is: “We are responsible for each other. I am trying to convince doubters. There is still work to do.” I often feel that way, too! #learnlap
A2: They decide whether or not to take ownership of their learning. Letting Ss know that this is within their control and their power is very important. #LearnLAP
A2 I'm currently out of the classroom, but I tried to build in choice around modifying rules when we saw they weren't working. Also tried to give students space to create products to display learning. Have a long way to go with this, though! #LearnLAP
A2) I have Ss create goals, game plans, and really reflect on their learning and personal choices. Part of that is letting Ss make mistakes and have choice in the classroom but taking time to talk to them and work through things #learnlap
A2 one of the things We have started to do is give students a voice in decisions and surveyed them more often about their thoughts and wishes in our building #learnlap
A2 Differentiate assignments with choice. I once taught Citizen of the Galaxy by Heinlein. When a main character, Baslim, died students had the option of writing an obituary or a eulogy. There should always be choice in learning. #learnLAP
A2: I am currently working on planning my first passion project unit for my 6th grade AVID students as part of our relational capacity Fridays. 🤞🤞 #Learnlap
A2: Let them take control of their learning. Let them decide how they will demonstrate learning. Provide real-life opportunities to grow (#PBL). Give them a voice in what & how things go on in the school. Do not give them all the answers. Let them have healthy struggles #learnlap
A choice-based classroom is a culturally responsive classroom: I focus on skills while students bring their culture + their literacies into our classrooms while making choices about form + structure. Get students involved at design levels; give them trust + agency. #LearnLAP
A2: Give students chances to learn about what they're interested in. Create an environment where students feel safe enough to voice their opinions and make choices. #learnlap
A2: I allow Ss to help make decisions about our room, new routines, about where they want to sit, how they want to respond, etc. I explicitly seek their input for things that involve them & I let them know I want to hear their views before making a final decision. #LearnLAP
A2 Ask them their thoughts/opinions. Give them voice and choice in the classroom. Many times Ss will ask me, "Can I do ... ?" before I can reply they elaborate on their ideas because they know I will say tell me more. I encourage them to lead the way w/their learning #learnlap
A2. Ss when working on projects or activities, usually have a bunch of choices from materials to colors, to how they wish to do a project, add changes, experiments, hands on observations, testing things, redoing tests, trying different methods to make things work. #learnlap
Great idea. Every community has a problem students can explore. There's a rise in Leptospirosis here in NJ. How cool for kids to survey the veterinarians in their area to find the extend of the local problem by collecting data. #LearnLAP
A2. We often vote on things in class, in order to make sure that the student voice is being heard. They can often choose their partner, choose center games to play, choose which books to read, and more! #LearnLAP
A2: I aim to provide students with as much choice as possible because I think this helps them understand that the classroom isn't just MY classroom where they happen to be learning; it is their own learning space as well that they should feel like their choices matter #LearnLAP
Our Ts have begun preparing learning menus for Ss to choose where they are & the direction they want to go with their learning, phasing into #PersonalizedLearning so they can move at their own pace with lots of Ss choice to meet the outcome/goal #LearnLap
A2: I have my ss do ss lead IEPs. They share about their strengths, interests, and areas they need to be supported in. They also set goals for the current school year and for the the future. Allowing them input is very powerful! #LearnLAP
This is the core of self-directed learning and many homeschooling co-ops. Find a topic and research a piece of it that interests you by asking a question and researching the answer. #LearnLAP
A3: Sometimes just that... let them work through it (all the while watching/listening from the side). I'll often ask "How can you fix this?/What can you do about this?" and let them start to figure it out. #learnlap
A2: Always looking for new ways to provide choice. Ss can choose to go on a trip to the Capitol and do a narrative or create a persuasive paper, perform in a poetry slam or do an evaluative essay, and lots of options for enrichment activities w other programs on campus. #LearnLAP
A2) Home Court Advantage is #1 in my class. There has to b trust so kids know when I say choice, I am serious. It’s been about a month with my new Ss. We are still working on changing mindset from copy me to choice. It’s culture #LearnLAP
A3) I try to mediate conflict with my Ss, I want them to learn to talk out their feelings and share them calmly because when they do they become the leaders and take on the power to handle their relationships #learnlap
A3 - we set group norms at the beginning of the year and revisit at the start of each new unit/table group. These norms include how we respond to inter-group conflict. We develop protocols for listening and then responding with compromise. #LearnLAP
A3: model conflict resolution in your own life, intentionally teach them the language of conflict resolution and validate the feelings when facing conflict. #LearnLAP
A3: First, I encourage students to use their voice. I tell them they can "argue" points on assessments and voice their opinion on projects. By doing this, we can work through the proper way to share. When a conflict arises, we can reflect on those skills.
#LearnLAP
A3: I'm at a Prek-3 school so each mis-step is a teaching opportunity. Conflict happens because kids don't know, don't understand, or can't control impulses. We talk to kids. We discuss the issues. We work to restore trust and fix what's broken #LearnLAP
A3
I think it is important to teach students what conflict is. Then set aside time were students can have a debate, which will allow them to see how to deal with conflict in a positive way. #LearnLAP
A3 we don’t do as good of a job here as we could but, we do talk focus on respect, supporting others and mindfulness in our building on the daily #learnlap
A3a I used to feel like I had to mediate all conflict between students; I've found I need to do more work around letting students lead that process (once I model and explicitly teach ways of addressing norms, harms, etc.). #LearnLAP
A2: By giving them as many opportunities to do so as possible. While we have many have-to-dos, I often give them opportunities to choose the how-to-dos. Plus, they can choose their own projects - as well as how and to whom to present their final products. #learnlap
And with all the online learning opportunities now, blended learning and lessons, coupled with self-directed learning means fewer bored students. #LearnLAP
A3 We use @PBISWorld strategies and model how to problem solve on a daily basis. I have learned so much from my 2nd graders on how to help Ss problem solve. I believe it is also important to understand #traumainformedpractices to help Ss to work through conflict. #learnLAP
A3 Dealing with conflict in a positive manner is important, but this is still reactive. I focus on proactive ways my students can #GoBeKind and create a campus of cohesion rather than conflict. #LearnLAPhttps://t.co/8XuTRvSaFc
A2: At MS level, we are striving for Ss to push for independence, so we try to strategize and problem solve while also allowing them to make their own decisions about learning #learnlap
Here are all of my #GeniusHour resources for those wanting to give it a try: https://t.co/3EWeqBeVMQ
Step-by-Step Directions, Student projects, A complete list of hundreds of essential questions & more!
#LearnLAP
A3 - When there is conflict I have two main strategies, I use collaborative problem solving or restorative justice Both have been tremendous for my Ss in working through conflict @ThinkKids#LearnLAP
Conflict is real and it is challenging. I do not teach avoidance. Rather, I teach strategies. We do restorative circles when necessary. I think it is also important to let them explore, I don't think swooping in to resolve every conflict for students is beneficial. #LearnLAP
A3 We have used #RestorativePractices to help Ss work through disagreements. During class, I've seen teachers allow Ss to come up with a method to decide who does what in their groups (rather than jumping in). We teach tie breakers, seeking 1st to understand, & win-win. #LearnLAP
A3: Throw them into conflict. Personally I love doing classroom debates. I can teach kids to respectfully disagree and that just because someone has a different opinion doesn't mean you should stop liking them. It gives them coping skills for life.#LearnLAP
A3: we talk about the importance of listening to learn, not just to respond. A lot of conflict can be resolved by listening and understanding another persons point of view. Equip students with empathy, compassion, and an ear for listening #LearnLAP
Every Friday my Advisory (homeroom at the end of the day) participates in a Community circle. Often times we end up talking through conflicts. My role is to guide she on how to keep the conversation polite and respectful despite conflicts. #learnLAP
A1: Michael Scott from ‘The Office’. Michael was the kind of boss that was silly, kind, full of character, colorful, emotional, jokester, family oriented- shall I continue? At the end of the day Michael took care of his staff & clients & got the job done! #LearnLAP@SteveCarell
A3 While I'm happy to say we don't regularly have conflict in our classroom, when we do, we mostly look at the specific behaviors and the tone. Usually, both sides are "right," but the delivery wasn't appreciated. We reframe our statements and stay solution-focused. #LearnLAP
A3: I model conflict resolution strategies during morning meetings. Also we talk a lot about empathy and putting ourselves in the other’s shoes. #LearnLAP
A3: We read 7 Habits of Healthy Kids & those are our guiding precepts in our room. When there is conflict, I have those involved step into the hall to solve without me first. I have Ss who come ask if they can step outside to solve a conflict. #LearnLAP
Ss in #elemed need a mediator, someone to manage 'taking turns', redirecting responses from emotional to logical, support receiving criticism and accepting responsibility, but also respectfully and responsibly engaging an issue with proper perspective and language.
#LearnLAP
A3: Learning to work together and collaborate is vital for all Ss (and people). We anticipate bumps in the road, but also set guidelines for effective group work beforehand #learnlap
A3: I started implementing an SEL component into my classroom this year and it has worked wonders for my Ss conflict resolution skills and how they treat others in general. We completed growth mindset training in the LearnStorm Khan Academy program too; 10/10 recommend #LearnLAP
A3: I try to model problem solving strategies and tools. Some of my ss struggle with social skills/conflict. I provide them with tools such as a problem solving wheel with various strategies to help them find a solution. #LearnLAP
#LearnLAP A3 I think it is important to model accountable talk with students in all our conversations in the classroom and then reinforce it between students.
A3. As a kindergarten teacher, I spend time every day helping students work through conflicts, big and small. We work on how to appropriately respond, knowing if something is a big deal or not, how to use words instead of being physical, etc. It’s critical at this age! #LearnLAP
The idea of a "campus" is kind of outmoded: the world of learning needs to extend into our communities + student voices should be meaningfully considered as we solve problems, engage in service + build connections. Authentic learning is key to student growth. #LearnLAP
Sue, this type of real-world, service-based learning and leadership infuses education with compelling purpose. This is teaching the #BenefitMindset. 💙 #LearnLAP
Great idea. Every community has a problem students can explore. There's a rise in Leptospirosis here in NJ. How cool for kids to survey the veterinarians in their area to find the extend of the local problem by collecting data. #LearnLAP
A3: You have to work with students on problem solving strategies. Work on being listeners, teach acceptance and focus on every opportunity to build positive relationships with them. As a MS Principal there will be lots of conflicts. Focus on kindness and empathy. #LearnLAP
A3. First of all, giving Ss a chance to work through conflict themselves. If i'm needed, I listen to both sides, and then we talk about what would be the kindest decision and why. And put each S in e/ o/ shoes, as to how they would feel, if something was done to them. #learnlap
A3: I also run "Flipped Friday" in Social Studies where students have to complete an activity online. When they arrive to class on Friday they participate in a Socratic Seminar, Philosophical Chairs, or a collaborative study group. #LearnLAP
A3:Many times Ps want to save/protect Ss from conflict v helping Ss navigate thru it. For HS, ideas around restorative justice are HUGE. Host listening sessions =counselors facilitate to help Ss comm. learning frustrations & needs to Ts & vice versa.Eager to hear others #LearnLAP
A3: I like to help students see the wisdom in trying to define the "why" of the conflict - why do others feel that way, etc. I help them find the humor - which will enable them to stay more positive during the conflict. And, I teach them conflict resolution strategies. #learnlap
Yes! Sentences stems are an important way for Ss to start to share respectfully & responsibly. "I respectfully disagree with you and this is why." #LearnLAP
A3 this is coming at a great time as this is something we are trying to instill & teach 6-8th graders. As the AP one thing we do is mediation in our offices to help resolve conflict between Ss and Families- sometimes we put on our other hat through counseling #LearnLAP
I think I've had a hard time with giving students a first chance because I've always wanted to be "in control" of situations in the classroom -- but we have to give students chances to lead if they're going to learn these skills. #LearnLAP
Q3) I Teach OTFD - observations, thoughts, feelings, desires. Kids have t realize they have the right/responsibility to let others know their feelings and ask for a fair resolution. There are many sides that have to be looked at. #LearnLAP
a3 My Algebra teams have assigned roles. Just as in a work-environment, conflict needs to be resolved with logic, empathy & evidence. We work thru that situation by situation. #learnlap
A4
I think it starts by letting students have a say in what they are learning. By giving them a say, students will start to grow into who they truly are. #LearnLAP
I homeschooled my youngest for 8 years. The world was our playground. We are fortunate to live near NYC and Philly. It was some of my best teaching and learning. #LearnLAP
A1: I aspire to be a leader in my profession as my principal @AHSPrincipal385 is. Caring & supportive. I would also like to emulate the fictional character, Albus Dumbeldore. He is patient and respectful of all students. I want to be as awesome as @BrianColemanCPS 2! #learnlap
In reply to
@drmcclard, @burgessdave, @AHSPrincipal385, @BrianColemanCPS
A4- if your classroom is S-driven you’re always teaching “soft skills”. Perseverance, thinking flexibly and interdependently, managing impulsivity— these are all things that can be taught, coached, and reflected on throughout the course of content learning activities. #LearnLAP
A4 - I embed 34 "soft skills" into my instruction, assessment & feedback throughout the year. Some lessons lend themselves to the teaching & practicing of a specific skill (while others don't). Here's my 21st Century Skills Progress Report: https://t.co/Q3o8VxFhey#LearnLAP
A4 If we start from a model of inquiry-based, collaborative learning, lessons about leadership and conflict resolution are embedded. If the teacher delivers all knowledge, those lessons become less central. These skills have to be inherent in our day to be meaningful. #LearnLAP
A4: Authentic learning is SO powerful. Ss tens to learn more when the moment is real. Use teachable moments to teach soft skills and always take the opportunity to make learning cross-curricular #LearnLAP
A4- I prefer to call these essential skills rather than soft skills. EQ is what is driving success as an adult and in the workplace, so it isn’t a question of making it fit with the curriculum, it needs to be part of the curriculum #LearnLAP
A3 I language -- I need . . . I feel . . . I didn't like . . . Discuss the difference between saying "you're an idiot" and I disagree with your position for the following reasons. #learnLAP
A4: I think soft skills can be taught and modeled within the curriculum. By not accepting work until it meets requirements, you teach perseverance. By creating opportunity for discussion, students can vocalize their thoughts. #learnLAP
A4 - I embed 34 "soft skills" into my instruction, assessment & feedback throughout the year. Some lessons lend themselves to the teaching & practicing of a specific skill (while others don't). Here's my 21st Century Skills Progress Report: https://t.co/Q3o8VxFhey#LearnLAP
A4 Build it in. Utilize tech to leverage 4Cs w the curriculum.
For instance, have Ss pick a problem that's important them & have them solve it. Collaborate, write, create videos, utilize math to determine needed $ or chart progress, ect. @DonWettrick is a good resource #LearnLAP
a3 I make a point of celebrating events where two socially challenged Ss work something out with the help of their team mates. Ss who support them are heroes. #LearnLAP
A4 Teaching effective communication, leadership, and conflict skills can be incorporated in academics by modeling discourse, purposeful grouping, and teaching metacognition. #learnLAP
Absolutely. Also knowing that a person's story is their story and their experience and it's okay that it differs from their own. It's also okay to feel discomfort bc good change can come from that #Learnlap
A4 It's not either/or. By changing how we teach the curriculum, we get to do both at the same time. If students do more with the curriculum, the soft skills are embedded. If it's direct instruction and worksheets? Then it seems like twice as much work. #LearnLAP
A4: I try to tie them together when possible, but many SWD need more explicit instruction on "soft skills" than your typical students. In the past I have done a lunch bunch to help teach these skills. #LearnLAP
A4: Modeling those "soft skills" WHILE teaching the curriculum goes a long way toward teaching them to students. How you respond to challenges, how you talk to people, how you talk ABOUT people, how you handle mistakes, etc. -the students are always watching & learning. #learnlap
A4. I would argue that without the "soft" skills of social, emotional, and soulful development, students won't learn very much at all. A #WholeChild approach places academics in equal balance with feelings and personal passions. #LearnLAP
We need help students have kindness, empathy + mercy even when they have the power to condemn or be angry. We like to model BE Oakley's missive: "Radical softness is a boundless form of resistance." #LearnLAP
A4. Soft skills are very important especially when working with our Ss on voice and choices. The Ss make a decision, they must learn to stick with their decisions and not change it, two minutes later. #learnlap
A4. This is an area I’m sure I can improve in. I think teaching students to value everyone’s perspective, control impulsiveness, and always do their best work is a good start I’m kindergarten. #LearnLAP
A4: Isn't it funny how important employers find these "soft skills" and how little they are emphasized in a lot of curriculums? As educators, we can find opportunities in a variety of lessons to build S empowerment toward leadership! #learnlap@ERobbPrincipal
A4 I try to incorporate leadership opportunities during daily instruction. Ss participate in groups with different roles during reading and math. Also taking advantage of before & after school times where Ss can be leaders around school. #LearnLAP
A3: We have mediator trainings students can go through, we set and practice guidelines for conversations that include dealing with facts, listening to others with the intent of understanding, reflective listening, and extensions. People first always. #LearnLAP
I will frequently use PBL opportunities to integrate leadership skills and curriculum; problem-solving and creativity are added benefits, too! :) Occasionally, I will use my #BreakoutEDU kit to make escape rooms based on content which also leads to Ss using leadership #learnlap
A4: Give kids a reason to lead. I may sound like a broken record but service-learning can align with curriculum and help kids with soft skills. My students learned more about themselves helping the domestic violence unit then they ever would sitting in the classroom. #LearnLAP
A4: The curriculum is life. If we teach children to be learners, to be kind and to be empathetic then the curriculum will take care of itself. We must engage children in their passions and help them to want better for the world #LearnLAP
A4: Model the "soft skills." Students are looking for leaders. They are looking for people to emulate. Be a coach...a mentor...a person in the building who inspire and engage them. There won't be meaningful learning until there is trust, honesty and loyalty. #LearnLAP
#NoneTaken but I’m not sure I follow. If you are saying this should happen de facto, I agree, but believe guilt and humiliation often prevent Ss from taking risks with their learning. #learnLAP
#LearnLAP A4 I think the hardest thing as a T is releasing total control in lessons and become a facilitator. If T do that, students develop leadership skills and master the curriculum.
A4: I believe spending time on the soft skills has greater staying power than isolated curricular skills. Curriculum is often more broad than deep, so Ss may not reach the level of mastery we would like. But if they have the Cs? That's a win! #LearnLAP
A4) Teaching Ss to come in daily with a handshake and saying good morning. Teaching them how to present and build confidence and support one another during presentations #learnlap
I’ve implemented these in my 2nd grade classroom after reading #learnLAP and I LOVE seeing ss use these strategies without me having to prompt them now! What a game changer!
A4: I think that you can due this through first creating a classroom culture where ss voice is heard/welcome. Then secondly, by creating lesson activities that deliver the curriculum while creating opportunities for SS to learn soft skills #learnLAP
I gave feedback on a project the other day & told Ss to correct & resubmit. They were shocked! It's a sem class so I just got them. Told them employers will tell you to fix it or fire you. I'm using the fix it route. Ss need to understand it's not always one and done. #learnLAP
A5 I found students willing to take risks if they felt safe with their classmates and me. Beyond that, modeling for students what trying something new looks and feels like. Discussing how much they've learned already in life, and how they had to take risks to do so. #LearnLAP
A4 Soft skills were often learned through Show and Tell, classroom chores. I guess those aren't done anymore. I think kids could take responsibility for bulletin boards. #learnLAP
You build leaders by recognizing that kids lead in many different ways. Do you consider the student who doesn't get it and asks a question to be a leader? If not, you might rethink your definition of leadership. With those kind of leaders, you WILL cover the curriculum #learnlap
A5
The teacher I am working with always tells her students to give it their best shot. This always seems to give students an excited outlook for what they are doing. #LearnLAP
A4 I look at this question and the first thing I think of is that we must consider the whole child approach to teaching all the skills. This starts with building a classroom community that is positive, kind, allows for voice and choice #learnlap
A5 We practice it! We watch a great TED talk and then do 10 Comfort Challenges a year. I model my risks in the classroom and discuss them when the challenges are outside the classroom. It takes consistent practice! #LearnLAP#UnlimitedTeacherhttps://t.co/XponptO9YE
A5: failure is part of success not the opposite. Encourage Ss to get out of their comfort zone because that is where amazing happens. I like to publicize my failures in class, makes Ss more comfortable with failing. #LearnLAP
A5: We have to be vulnerable in order to create a culture of risk-taking. I need to show kids that I am a learner and show my failures. When the classroom values getting better daily over perfection that's when learner's will take risks. Know your kids.#LearnLAP
A5: Discuss creativity and mistakes as complementary pieces in learning. Mistake and failure aren’t synonymous.
Fear freezes creativity. A good leader/teacher liberates/reduces the worry in mistakes and keeps the focus on being creative in the pursuit of learning.
#LearnLAP
A5: Students will take risks when they know the risk will lead to growth. If risks mean they might be wrong and will be penalized, they will always take the safe route. Give them a net!
#LearnLAP
A4: Empowering kids to take leadership roles within the class & in the school as a whole is important. Allowing kids the chance to have a say in their learning opportunities allows for a much richer curriculum for all. The 7 Healthy Habits of Kids is a great resource. #Learnlap
A5. By modeling risks in the classroom. If our Ss seee us taking risks, they too are more apt to try new things. They need to know that failure is first attempt in learning and to never give up!#learnlap
A5: Not punishing them if they fail while taking a risk. Fostering a growth mindset with our students will help them seek to overcome instead of stopping at challenges. #learnlap
Being a role model of positive failure is so important! Those moments of vulnerability are also helpful in establishing rapport with students. #LearnLAP
A5 Promote a growth mindset (or mathematical mindset, see @joboaler). Model risk taking yourself. Try a crazy fun approach to a lesson and let Ss know it is a risk. If it fails, model what happens next! #LearnLAP
A5: The best way to teach students to take risks is to show them that mistakes can happen and valuable lessons can be learned from them. I try to model this whenever I make mistakes in class and show that even teachers can mess up! #learnlap
A5: To build a place where productive risk is allowed, trust must be present. All members of the community should be on board. Rule #1 in our classroom is "Don't Panic." Give it a try. Trust that we will catch you if you fall. #LearnLAP
A5 Risk Taking is an important piece of having a #growthmindset. My Ss start taking risks with sharing their strategies in #numbertalks. Then it grows from there. Two of my Ss took a risk and co-facilitated with me on a District PD on #metacognition. #LearnLAP
A5 - designing a classroom culture AND GRADING SYSTEM that reward risk-taking, mistake-making, and growth. A #FeedbackFriendly classroom where we model mistakes is foundational to transformative learning outcomes. #LearnLAP
A5 First day of school checklist... build relationships, set class norms together, model risk taking, talk about student voice and choice! So this starts day 1 in my classroom. I lead by example, how I was taught as a kid & my admin believes in this too! #learnlap
A5 I think students fear risk because of the "one bad grade" syndrome. Watch kids in self-directed programs with no grades. They try lots of things because no one is leaning on them to "be an A" student. #learnLAP
a5 I email home when I see Ss reach beyond their comfort zones to benefit others. It becomes almost a game to see who can get a "genius" email. #LearnLAP
I give "Application" assessments in class that cover ideas students haven't quite learned yet that scaffolds the learning and expects them to take risks and explore. You earn the most credit by TRYING something and tying it to the prompts, not just from being right. #learnlap
#LearnLAP A5 mindset is important at all levels. Teach the power of the word “yet”! S says I don’t know that word, have them add YET! I can’t develop a lesson plan... YET. Be personal with students. Share what I can’t do YET.
The willingness of students to be reflective + coach themselves to be improvement is a significant skill. We have to teach students frameworks for reflection, give them time to do it + make space where revision isn't an exception, but a normal part of any process. #LearnLAP
In reply to
@MandiTolenEDU, @MrPStrunk, @ERobbPrincipal
A5: I try to create an atmosphere that is risk-free. From day one I try to instill an attitude that values varying opinions. Supporting your ideas is important, but listening and being open to different ideas are important. #Learnlap
I have my kiddos set personal, academic, 21st Century & behavioral goals on a weekly basis. They create a plan for achieving each goal & collect evidence towards them. When they feel they've met a goal, they put a Post-It on our Celebrations Board. Lots of risk-taking! #LearnLAP
A5; I frame opportunities to take risks in such a way that Ss feel confident. "Who is brave enough to share..." or "Who made a discovery & changed their thinking?" I also point out my own stumbles, mistakes, & failures. #LearnLAP
I agree. We have a place for reflection and goal setting after each standards based assessment. Ss can decide which skills they need to work on, reflect on mistakes made, and set a goal to improve. #learnLAP
In reply to
@MrAustinA2, @MrPStrunk, @ERobbPrincipal
Tim! It's pushing yourself outside of your Comfort Zone and reflecting on the feeling before/during/after. It's the reflection and acknowledgment of fear or discomfort that keeps us from better. Watch it; absolutely worth it! My #oneword2018 was "TRY." Changed my life. #LearnLAP
A6: I like to build in lots of opportunities for collaboration with activities. Even if I want each S to do the assignment "individually" I allow them to collaborate and talk through ideas. #learnlap
A4: Since we are learning GOVT, we talk about HUGE importance of prob solving, compromise, conflict resolution, & avoiding hyperbole and rhetoric on a daily basis. Then we talk about how the “people” fit into our system and why it matters to all of us. #CivicEngagement#LearnLAP
A6
I have seen many different teachers give student a chance to work together to answer a question. This allows students to work on skills that will help them latter in life. #LearnLAP
I give similar advice to preservice teachers I work with who want to jump right away into content + activities. You have to intentionally start building teacher-student + student-student relationship or there's no classroom community + no curriculum will be effective. #LearnLAP
A6 - we do group work every day in the lab. We have group norms, we focus on the skill of “Thinking Interdependently” at the beginning of the year, we have protocols for collaborative work and personal accountability. #LearnLAP
A6 I need to do more work around this -- I started out thinking that partner work was collaboration, but true collaboration is found in inquiry, in shared responsibility, etc. Have to set time for group norms and develop roles for various activities. #LearnLAP
A5: What works well for me is simply modeling risk-taking. My students get to see me learn new things, try new things, and explore new things. And, they get to see me fail sometimes, which gives me the opportunity to show them failure isn't the end, it's just a detour. #learnlap
A1. President Obama. He has always been so skillful with word choice, tone, and humility. He had almost a gaffe free Presidency. Strong leader with the gravitas to back it up. #LearnLAP
A6: While students talk together all the time, it takes instruction to truly collaborate. I begin with roles, first allowing Ss to choose roles that fit their personality. We eventually break out of the comfort zone to try new, but after the foundation is set. #learnLAP
A6a We have Ss work once a week in “families” or leadership clubs that are made of k-4 to problem solve or complete projects.
In class, I have seen Ss use Google Suite, @Flipgrid, @seesaw and other tech tools to aide in collaboration on projects. #LearnLAP
That's awesome, Mandi! I love that you're leaving space for them to set their own goals. We have to trust students to shape the learning environment to their needs + turning over goal setting power is huge for trust + agency. #LearnLAP
In reply to
@MandiTolenEDU, @MrPStrunk, @ERobbPrincipal
A6: I think the biggest way is setting up expectations for collaboration then stepping aside and giving ss the freedom to collaborate. Coding has been excellent for this in our building! Ss are constantly collaborating to build their projects. #LearnLAP
A6 I was genuinely concerned about going 1:1 because I worried my students would stop talking to each other about the big ideas. Strangely, more tech helped. We also use TQE as a foundation. https://t.co/ewQ3BlUvkj and https://t.co/0TDExCKW3B. Let me know if I can help! #LearnLAP
A6. With every activity or experiment, the Ss do spend plenty of time collaborating with others. Sharing ideas, helping one another, giving suggestions, and showing the way for others. #learnlap
A5: I encourage students to be creative. I refer to our “struggle time” anchor chart. They know the “real learning” occurs during the time that we struggle and challenged. I help students to keep their explanatory style optimistic. I praise the process not the product. #learnLAP
A6. Collaboration is empowering and engaging!
Just be sure students are truly collaborating and not merely cooperating. #LearnLAPhttps://t.co/bAB03BSoxn
A6 S collaboration is something that has to be modeled and modeled again in order for it to be purposeful and then to become authentic. I believe our Ss have to have more than buy-in or compliance. They have to #believein what they are learning. #LearnLAP
A6: My Ss collaborate through PBL oppportunities, in class book clubs, and daily math groups. I also recently started using Flipgrid so my students could have discussions about our current novel; they love the customizations and conversations they can have. #learnlap
Q6. In kindergarten, collaboration can be a difficult thing to do. They don’t quite understand how to compromise and come to a consensus. But I need to get better and letting them collaborate on projects, and just learn to accept the chaos and imperfections of it all. #LearnLAP
A6 P1: we have sticky notes full of Qs that we look up with classmates in our free time. We don’t always get to all Qs in the day and often have Qs about Qs. Often, another S is wondering the same thing and we can work together to answer it. #LearnLAP
A6: When it comes to collaboration skills, modelling and even some direct instruction are super beneficial. If I put students in a group they've not worked with before, sometimes I will give them prompt sentences, or language that they can use to get the ball rolling. #LearnLAP
A6b I think we can give Ss feedback on the actual collaboration, similar to feedback on writing. We need to give Ss tools for collab as well. How do you work w someone that thinks differently than you? Relay your ideas? Take feedback from your collaborators? #LearnLAP
YouCubed and @joboaler have some great strategies for establishing group norms, it’s math-focused but translatable to other subject areas! #LearnLAPhttps://t.co/8pF4wgGqnK
When I taught broadcast writing, I broke the grade into three parts. Concept development, Writing, Putting It All Together. That way, students could tell if the idea was good or not, the writing was or wasn't well done, and how well it did, or did not, come together. #LearnLAP
A6: Morning meetings, teaching them rumble skills like @BreneBrown mentions in Dare to Lead,and help groups find focus and their why as @simonsinek mentions. We can't directly teach leadership but leadership can be learned through problems and service. #LearnLAP
An "interesting number" is one that is NOT the sum of any set of consecutive whole numbers. So because 2+3+4=9, 9 is NOT interesting. But 8 is bc you can't make 8 by adding consecutive wholes. How many interesting numbers are less than 1,500? #learnlap#unlimitedteacher
A6 P2: It is important to be able to collaborate with different people not just our friends. We collaborate with different classmates all the time. It is important to be respectful and a team player #LearnLAP
A2. The small disagreements between students are times I get students to make decisions. We collaborate on feasible and agreed upon consequences. Often times the fact that the Ss are heard lessen the severity of consequence. #LearnLAP
#LearnLAP A6 it is important to celebrate the successes of collaboration. Take 5 min to discuss what went well. Don’t dwell on negative but allow some self reflection time after the collaboration.
A1: When I walk in a classroom and a Teacher tells me they have never worked so hard, I feel they have teaching and learning backward. Students need to be the ones working the hardest. #whatif they co-design the learning with the teacher? #NYEDChat
Chromebooks, but it's not the device. It's not looking someone in the eye & hearing their thoughts. Our Collaboration Screens moved their eyes to a shared screen & each other. It cost next to nothing (about $100) plus TVs from Craigslist, surplus stores, donations. #LearnLAP
A6 How about back to that what learning can be done in the community so that they collaborate with one another and with other adult leaders like the mayor, or school board member, or veterinarian?#learnLAP
A6a I also believe purposeful collaboration is developed by establishing norms. We also have houses at our school (@ronclarkacademy). The relationships in the house help with collaboration, too. #LearnLAP
A8: I actually had SS complain when I returned from maternity leave because "you make us collaborate every day!" It could be a full project, group roles to examine primary sources, or a quick 5min ?in activity, I strive to include collaboration in every lesson #learnLAP
A6 - Collaboration is taught in our classroom on a DAILY basis! It's so important to get kids working together with EVERYONE (not just their friends) every day. We use sticks to choose partners so everyone builds strong relationships with everyone! SO IMPORTANT! #LearnLAP
A6: My students always get to collaborate during classwork activities. I give them the choice to work with others or alone. They also collaborate on group projects. Time to collaborate is embedded in the daily plan. #learnlap
A7 - I do course surveys at the middle-mark of each semester and we debrief the results as a class, then my Ss help me set teaching goals and make an action plan (right now we’re working on a better system for accountability with checking in with each group each day). #LearnLAP
A7 I've been blogging, presenting, hosting #PLNedchat and #coffeeEDU, working with new and soon-to-be teachers, encouraging others to present. I'm hoping to do more in the next few years! #LearnLAP#PLNedchat
A7
I take on leadership by listening to what others have to say and then putting into action. I can step up as a leader by being more patient. #LearnLAP
Ss are assigned to small groups in my class. 1st 15 min is Ss working together on hmwk, asking/answering questions and teaching and learning from each other. Later, 1 S from each team goes to the board to compete for food prizes. Make sure your teammates are ready! #learnlap
A5 We must create a safe environment, & build a relationship w/our Ss to where they feel safe to take that risk. We must also be vulnerable in front of our students & lead by example #LearnLAP
A7) I try to reflect and evaluate myself often and one thing I want to grow at is pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. I do so much but I want to collaborate and talk to experts or community members more that would be pushing myself outside my introvert-ish zone #learnlap
A7: I model professional learning and sharing with others. I give my time not just to students, but to other teachers to help make them better too. Grow and help others grow.
#LearnLAP
A7: This year I became the sped liason teacher for my building. I lead all of the SST meetings and am responsible for helping others in the sped dept. I am also mentoring a new teacher. I am learning a lot by stepping into this leadership role. #learnlap
A7: This is honestly something I struggle with, and is goal of mine. I would like become more involved with my school and possibly show leadership by helping colleagues with technology and sharing/ teaching about new resources I find. #learnlap
A7. One area that I model is not hiding how I seek out information. It’s not magic and does not happen by chance. Ss & Ts see the resourcefulness. I try to create networks for people so that it becomes habit. #learnLAP
When you celebrate the successes of teachers publicly, you have to be sensitive to the reactions from teachers that do not take risks or are humble/insecure. That said, you also can't let the insecure stop you from praising anyone. Risk and growth MUST be celebrated! #learnlap
A4: Building relationships on trust, creating a safe environment and modeling risk-taking and failure and getting up afterward. Students need to know it is ok to make mistakes and that it is learning. #LearnLAP
A7 continuously seeking to do better for #EveryChild & teaching our Ss to find their voice & advocate for themselves
Until they find their voice it is serving as that voice for Ss & standing up even if it goes against the grain if it is what’s best for kids #LearnLAP
Yes! I have such a great tribe but sometimes it’s just hard connecting or calling people. I can put on a costume and be a silly fool for a lesson put asking others to join my class or share is nerve recking idk why #learnlap
A7: I try to model my personal #growthmindset and goal setting. My students know my short and long-term goals and hear me vocalize ways in which I want to grow as an educator. They also often comment on the motivation posters I make myself based off of @dbc_inc books 🤣 #Learnlap
A8 What resources would you recommend for us to check out if we are interested in growing leadership skills in ourselves and in our students? #LearnLAP
Q7. I’ve stepped up a lot this year, and have begun training fellow teachers in our new literacy initiative, RISE. They have come to observe me teach, I make videos on how to teach certain concepts, support them in PLC’s and more. It’s been a year of growth for sure! #LearnLAP
A6: In music we are constantly collaborating because to create music we all must work together. Working towards creating beautiful music together is how we work on collaboration in music. #LearnLAP
A8 What resources would you recommend for us to check out if we are interested in growing leadership skills in ourselves and in our students? #LearnLAP
A7: I strive to be a champion for ALL Ss @ MES, not just the ones in b140. My goal is to be a positive role model and lead by example. Will be starting my M.A in Education Administration in hopes to have an even bigger impact in a school. #LearnLAP
A8 Books on Leadership: When, #LeadLAP, Hacking Leadership, Blink, Tipping Point, Be REAL, What Great Principals (or Teachers) Do Differently, Quiet.
I have Leadership Step By Step on my list and reading The Principled Principal.
#LearnLAP
I love this, Matthew! I would also add that thinking, research, and discovering take time. Intelligence is not always "Instant and easy." #LearnLAPhttps://t.co/O8K1ilURPM
A6: I encourage #GroupMe discussions and tell Ss I am willing to consider any alternative assignment they come up with if it shows mastery. They give feedback on draft writing, use discussion boards, and collaborate with me in feedback on surveys, messages, & more. #LearnLAP
A7: When I'm not teaching students, I'm working with/training/providing PD to teachers & staff. I'm also always one of the first to step up & help out when there is a need (for example, even though I'm a certified English teacher, I taught Chemistry for 3 weeks!). #learnlap
It's about the work that we're doing: are we investing our finite time + energy in the "right" work? I see the "right" work as things like building relationships, collaborating with students, providing timely, meaningful feedback. We need to avoid the "wrong" work. #LearnLAP
A8) I love listening to Teach Better Podcast it’s awesome and really quick reminds to what I do and how I can get better. 40hr work week is another goal based podcast I try to use to help me be better. Check out my blog: https://t.co/MbiT48xjVa for ideas #learnlap
Thanks so much to everyone who participated in #LearnLAP tonight! Thanks especially to @drmcclard for moderating such a fantastic chat!
Please join us next week as @Principal_H moderates!
For now, jump on over to #tlap for some more GREAT discussion!
A5: Students will grow in risk-taking when we have shown that they will be supported emotionally and academically in a space where failure is consistently a learning experience and not a judgment of ability. Tell them then show them that what you told them is true. #LearnLAP
A8 What resources would you recommend for us to check out if we are interested in growing leadership skills in ourselves and in our students? #LearnLAP
A8 Conferences on Leadership: Looking forward to @MoAESP Leadership Conference & hope to go to @NAESP one day. @LearningSTL puts on #Edcampleadership. A lot of conferences have leadership built into sessions. Missouri Powerful Institute and @iste are a couple examples. #LearnLAP
A8 This conversation was the perfect springboard to the #LearnLAP chat I'm moderating in two weeks. Hope to see you all there as we discuss the importance of compassion, community, and contribution in education. #BenefitMindset 💙
@PSolarz rocks everything he does! I have spent countless hours on his website and bugged him for specifics, and he always graciously replies. Thanks for sharing this.
In reply to
@MarisaEThompson, @PaulSolarz, @MakeThemMastrIt, @Hessteacherest, @TobiaBrooke, @PSolarz
A8: The Growth Mindset unit on Khan Academy was a great start in building confidence in my students so they felt more like they could be leaders. Also, Digital Promise has tons of great leadership micro credentials for T PD opportunities! https://t.co/iT6RiV7BsD#learnlap
A1 Coach Blanco (Jim White) from McFarland, Ca. Loyalty and understanding his kids, inspired them to greatness of something they didn't know they could do and they came back to pay it forward. #learnLAP
Thank you for joining us. Make sure to follow each other to continue the conversation. Mark your calendar for #LearnLAP next week moderated by @Principal_H!
