#WVEdChat Archive
The goal of #wvedchat is to provide educators an opportunity to connect, share, and learn from others by engaging in conversations around issues and topics in education.
Tuesday August 9, 2016 8:00 PM EDT
Hi ! Joining my voxer PLN tonight from SW OH. I can't wait to start teaching HS ELA next week!
Hello! HS SPED from Akron, Oh
Are you slacking? Sounds like you are becoming the brother of mine...
Rachel, ITRT for Fluvanna County, VA. Go
Hello !! Checking in from Cbus!!
Hi All! Mr. G, 5th grade KCS
Hi Jason-educator, TIS, Reg Mgr for Common Sense Ed, disruptor of norms, life-wide
Hi, Elem SPED T from Hampshire Co.
The Rick Black, Title I Math Teacher, Cabell County, coworker of the cooler of the Jackson pair
Tia from Logan Co. Trying to type around the cat on my lap!
Ok, I'm a mad man! Just got in the door. Glad my wingmen got us started!
Brother from another mother my man!
Did you get your sister on board? We need more hampshire people!
Great crowd so far Glad to c u
I think she's at church. I'm tweeting on the road. I reminded her and another HC teach my goal is to recruit this yr
Do it! Get that crew more connected!
Rebecca Recco, art k-5, Charleston
Hard to argue that 1 https://t.co/Pu0iRVRpa6
The Rick Black, Title I Math Teacher, Cabell County, coworker of the cooler of the Jackson pair
A1 Minute to win it is great. Game shows, playdough, mouse traps... Mix-n-Match. Seating Challenges: https://t.co/k2Bx1x6jmc
Rikki, teacher of students and admin during the day...
A1: I like playing games with the kids if I can that helps them find out new information about each other
A1: I want to find out what everyone did over the summer, ask everyone to share 3-5 pics of their summer break.
A1: Once my Ss are in their base groups, they have to create group names, colors, and logo. Thinking about coats of arms this year
I'll be in & out this PM, but looking forward to it
A1 Dpends on grade Any activity that req Ss & Ts to discuss & share bits of selves Intros followed by a match game w/movement
A1 Having Ss tweet/instagram an act of kindness and blog about it. Also planning for origami boxes for Ss to describe selves.
A1 Anything that focuses on relationships. Must reach the heart before the mind. Never neglect the time around the edges!
A1: Old school - M&M candy and share things based on what colors you have! Love it!
A1: as a district admin this is bittersweet for me...it makes me miss my Poca Dot fam and strong tradition!
This rocks! in their world https://t.co/nBVGBPAgDs
A1 Having Ss tweet/instagram an act of kindness and blog about it. Also planning for origami boxes for Ss to describe selves.
A1 Marshmallow challenge, cup challenge and lots of other team building games! can't wait for box to arrive
YES! That is awesome! I love it!
A1: I loved doing The Spyglass, I Can contracts, and the lab coat with my students!
A1: I love the staff bulletin to post shoutouts for other staff.
Cool! We did this last year with tangrams. Ss had to create a coat of arms for their teams.
Hopping in and out! Trying to follow the convo! Hey ya'll!
Having teams create a technology superhero. Got that idea
A1 leading up to the 1st day of school, 1on1 discussions with Ts and summer athletes about their summer and upcoming year
Can share a "how to" make the boxes. Found it challenging, but using it to encourage
A1: focusing a lot on relationship bldg early. Makerspace challenges planned for day 1 and 2- promotes teamwork
Lots of new names this PM The group continues to grow & share. :)
I think it's important to do some staff building too- like the idea of having something others would see https://t.co/7EjtCkIyBa
A1: I love the staff bulletin to post shoutouts for other staff.
Always exciting speaking with athletes about their upcoming seasons and expectations. https://t.co/MarTULNDqU
A1 leading up to the 1st day of school, 1on1 discussions with Ts and summer athletes about their summer and upcoming year
Definitely! We've gained some momentum heading into 16-17.
we are doing the marshmallow challenge too!
Sounds cool-what kind of challenges?
A1 I like having students create norms for the school year, then create videos to teach them to others.
once school begins, then I can have those discussions with non athletes and continue to build Rs with all
PSAs for procedures https://t.co/JTBGN9LUqx
A1 I like having students create norms for the school year, then create videos to teach them to others.
I got to watch a game of Phonebooth, ala Jimmy Fallon, with trivia about WV school facts today.
Well, when you are you... https://t.co/rAKQM8ve8Q
I always introduce the boring stuff first and then give the students a day to just find out about me...
A2: I don't have my own classroom anymore... I am kinda sad
A2 Anything that increases student communication & interaction.
A2: I liked a community feel to the room with a lot of books. I wanted readers!
A.1 We are new school. It was fun just to introduce a new friend.
Q2- the ability for my students and I to move around freely. It has to feel organic and collaborative.
A2 Temporary chalkboard walls, no windows, location of plugs. But I used florescent light covers to create "cool blue" lightning.
You can use it if you want, just say you stole it from Debbie Jackson, the cooler of the Jacksons
A2: I teach small groups - we're all at a table together!
A2: This year color is the theme! Painted last week. Down with all white walls! Wish I had a pic to share; it looks awesome!
A2: Two large U-shaped tables allow me to sit in the middle and communicate/facilitate classroom discussion. Sorry no pic yet.
Id always pick up interesting books at the thrift store and leave laying around for kids to experience more than math
A2: safe space, therapeutic, calming- very impt for our crew! Careful not to overstimulate.
I won't mention who she stole it from feel free to use to engage Ss https://t.co/vu1otTPVjn
You can use it if you want, just say you stole it from Debbie Jackson, the cooler of the Jacksons
I want to design my room as an instructional coach similar to a classroom because I want I to remind us we are life long learners
A2: I want to bring in my own lights. I hate the fluorescent lights!!
I like the set up for S collaboration, allows Ss to teach S.
A2: I cringe when schools repaint with those same drab colors. Prison-like. Brighten it up and use colors!
Late to the game, had to get my 8 year old in the shower
Great philosophy! https://t.co/tl6V4wARxB
I want to design my room as an instructional coach similar to a classroom because I want I to remind us we are life long learners
As do I... Our head custodian actually broke out school colors and other bright pastels to liven it up
What lab Cindy?! I'm sure we could offer some inspiration.
my aide and I were brainstorming ways to get rid of them! Hate those lights!
Why aren't there more student painted murals in schools???
YES, that would be awesome! Post that student work!
People don't like to do the maintenance once those students are gone... It is sad
So I glad I remembered this week at 8 instead of 10.
A2 had a variety of desks, computer stations, science tables, regular tables for kids to choose an apprpopriate seat for learning
I have white cement block on three sides.
Old ways of thinking doesn't get us to new places huh?
A3 Be in relentless pursuit of opportunities to lift others up. Be the CEO: Chief Energy Officer!
A2 I created inspirational posters to hang on my walls, years later a former S recited one of the quotes to me
A3: About to start in my 5 different school since Feb. so I need to learn the culture of this new one first before I can decide...
Q1: community outreach event with peeps from DHHR,WorkforceWV, Mountain Heart, adult education/GED, and so on
we have an entire wall in the hall painted an ocean scene. A parent did it.
Someone had those and Fire Marshall made them take them down...
A3: I have to learn the culture of my new district first. I plan to be my happy, bouncy self. Always willing to help!
I want Chroma green, so I don't have to hang up the green screen! Ss ask "is peach your fav color"? NO.
A2: My students! Mission statements, FreeRice bowls, things to make us think!
ARGG! They're fire resistant, too. Love my covers : (
A3 LISTEN to the students, let them tell me what they want...also find ways to incorporate technology, board games, and challenges
A3: I'm the organization person at my school. All about making sure things runs smoothly and everyone knows what's going on
A3: As district admin, I'm trying to have more presence and more time with students and staff!
Promote the ideals and principles discussed in Couros' Innovator's Mindset. Also, I plan on starting a blog.
Q3- set an example, empower others, celebrate good teaching
Q2: as a Principal my class is my school. We strive for bright and creative feeling rooms and halls
A3 I plan to share all the great things I learn from PD and Twitter. Very few connected Ts or admins at my school.
A3 Take pride in school, model appropriate behaviors, respect Ss & talk abt their lives & interests, build &
By the way, I'm Randy, TSS - Hurricane Middle in Putnam Co. and the better half of the
A3: Intentionally love, serve, and care for others. Tune in. Be aware of opportunities every day.
A3 pt2 Learn Ss names & intro Ss to each other & Ts
you only wish you were the better half...
WOW, I bet that looks awesome!
A3: Being transprnt & vulnerble. Make ur 1st title: LEARNER. B willing 2 learn&grow frm othrs, Share openly. Sharing isn't braggng
A3 continue to strive that all people involved in our school implement the 3 Rs
You should have seen the stares last open house. Supposed to help counter migraines.
A3 the school will be certified
Q3: Culture and climate although different go hand in hand...lead by example and keep the negativity in my head:)
Exactly! It's hard for me to self promote, and talking about being a life long learner isn't bragging. : )
A.3 I want to encourage a culture of change by asking ts to challenge themselves & their ss. Change comes by reflection.
Avoid at all cost, the "teacher lounge" drama trap! https://t.co/nGIqYDFZD0
Q3: Culture and climate although different go hand in hand...lead by example and keep the negativity in my head:)
Cool! I love their site for reviews. My school makes Ss watch a 3 min video on "online safety." Not very effective.
A3 also going for Google certification
thank you sharing isn't bragging.
I'm working on that now myself. New district is all about GAFE!
And try to avoid the naysayers and the "we tried that once, and it didn't work" folks. I hope to keep it positive, too!
A3: maintain positivity. Celebrate successes. Lead by example!
A4: Google certified, building online staff development classes to combo with my in person ones
WooHoo! I just finished Level 1 + 2 this summer. Good luck!
A4: make my self more available to staff for integration and not just the repair/management of technology
It sure is tough Beth! We can do it with humility and with an open heart though. I've learned from others :)
A4: I plan on starting a blog, simply my perspective on education, review on articles, and how we can better serve our Ss.
Avoid the energy vampires. Don't waste your time.
A4 I plan to have Ss help revise their papers instead of doing it all myself, have meaningful Ss blogs w/helpful Ss comments.
A4 encourage Ts to get out of their comfort zone. Goal for whole school to be on twitter by end of yr!
Sure thing! We're all sworn to secrecy on specifics, but as to how to get ready...
A4: New year, new position, new school. 1st - listen.
A4: trying some new tech tools, some new PBIS strategies, more PBL
did you announce your new position?
A4: can't divulge yet! Praying it all works out!
Q4) teaching a creative writing class and our goal is to publish a literary magazine
I did not buddy But it's official. I've been running like a mouse with no arms since I got home LOL.
A4 continue to improve restorative practices, data driven decisions, and progress towards graduating every S career ready
A1: Back 2 school night meeting families & students & re-uniting with co-workers during the days leading up to the 1st day
Yes :) Asst Principal and AD at Wirt Co High School. New job for me this year.
Cool! Good luck. Being Ss editor of our lit mag in HS is one of my fond memories.
Woot! Congrats!!!!! Are you gonna dress like a pirate the first day???
Where are you taking your talents to?
north elementary, Morgantown. I'll be in touch
how do you plan to share the publication with the world?
Rachel, that's actually a huge dilemma for me right now. I can't decide what to do. :/
LOL taking my talents to the country of Wirt Co High.
Anything to help - reach out as you need it.
A2: Things that promote a sense of team/family/home feel, as well as reference tools that we actually use during teaching
At least do it for staff :D Students you can do as a reward or something
Pirate AD? Asst Principal Arg? Congrats https://t.co/Z3BMOsvyNh
LOL taking my talents to the country of Wirt Co High.
A4: Experimenting with long term S blogging and digital badges this year. Dipping my toe in the gamification waters.
Consider your audience. You can be the acronym w/o the costume, if necessary!
Q4:Mental Health Counselor at our school twice a week for students who need more support than a school counselor is allowed togive
A3: princip always has someone present some sort of idea at every mtg & we are expected to share anytime we come back from pd
Yea, I actually had requests during todays PD: "Can we hear more about TLAP?!" So I unleashed a bit ;)
Blogging? My creative writing class participated in w/Wordpress last 2 yrs. eZine?
A.4 As instructional coach. I want to be a help to new ts in getting started and old ts in finding new practices.
A5: Build relationships with everyone- faculty, staff, and students!
Cool. This school wants to hear more . So excited for you!
A5: Learn the building's culture.
A5: never forget what it was like to sit in that desk like the students... do things better for them than what you received...
A5 breath and don't hesitate to ask questions! Ask to sit in on other Ts lessons!
A5: create relationships. Take chances. Don't stop learning. Grow. Ask for help. Tell your story. Expand your PLN.
A4: give students more opp to lead, class blog or online group or hashtag, more family involvement, more meaningful uses of tech
A5: Advice I wish someone would shared w/me: SLOW DOWN. You won't make it through "everything" & that's ok.
A5 Have Fun and come see me after you have set up a Twitter account
"meaningful uses" is perfect for Thanks! https://t.co/ZcRX5zsY6r
A4: give students more opp to lead, class blog or online group or hashtag, more family involvement, more meaningful uses of tech
A5. I'm a new TIS in a new state 😳
A5: connect. Tap into the positivity, vulnerability, & inspiration that exists on Twitter. Find a mentor & let them show the way!
My copy of Teach Like a Pirate is on its way to me. This old teacher is ready to learn a few new tricks. Thanks
A5: You are not alone. Connect with others. Take risks. Build Relationships. Find a Twitter Chat.
Q5: Keep focused,remember why you became a teacher! Be an instructional guide not a bbf! Keep positive, stay away from neg peeps
A5 Eat lunch in the lounge, but stay away from negative talkers. You can build relationships w/Ss w/o being a "buddy teacher."
A5: If you aren't given a mentor, find someone who will help you out.
A5: One day at a time, don't be afraid to ask for help, every day is a new opportunity to learn
Twitter would have helped me 12 years ago, I was "on an island"! https://t.co/e0J6iYnSw2
A5 Have Fun and come see me after you have set up a Twitter account
but be sure they are a mentor, not just a seasoned veteran
I'm so proud JOY! Enjoy your new book! is a supportive Capt so don't hesitate to connect.
I have a blog post coming in September about being a 1st year TIS :D
breathe - great advice for us all!!
A5: learn from your staff, but also go with your gut, learn from your mistakes, you'll make A LOT, structure & routine from day 1
your participation these last few chats has rejuvenated me! I'm pumped! Thank you for being here.
A5. Don't be afraid of change or challenges. We didn't become ts to stagnate.
my best mentors were those I sought out on my own! Those relationships are for life!
Excellent advice Becky! Accepting & even embracing our mistakes is important.
A5 cont: Make decisions about your students/class based on YOUR experience with them, and not a past teacher & have fun
Sounds like fresh starts and new opportunities! (what I keep telling my kiddo staring yr 1 of MS.)
A5: Don't worry if you get lost in your new building. It happens. Often. (I should know...)
I think back to my "network" during 1st yr. I cldn't even call the math T across hall n my network. We never talked.
she's a smart girl, my little sis!
A5: Be open to learning from the s's. Sometimes they give us the best lessons.
I was responsible for starting-up a new ED SPED unit, my mentor wasn't even SPED, & I was at the end of the building.
A6: Remembering my "WHY" and serving Ss first.
A6: I find opprtnits to engage n convos abt the mightier purpose. 1 time a yr wldn't b enough for me. I need reminded often!
A6: Remember what our guest speaker, Manny Scott talked about. Holy crap was he good!
A6: Remember: You are valuable. You are worthy. You are more.
A6 Stop complaining and BE the change!
A5: Establish expectations of Ss & self early. Follow thru to build trust and credibility with Ss.
Hampshire Co. Different schools
A6: "You can lead a horse to water, but can't make them drink. Give 'em a salt lick to make 'em thirsty!"
A6 Twitter chats w/like minded Ts. Feeds my soul!
A6 Continued: And our district bought salt licks to put in every school in the district
I hear it's sooo pretty over there! I really want to visit this year.
A6 thinking of my own 2 kids help me keep it real. Hope their teachers think like a parent
Amen. Same. I am reminded of my mightier purpose when I spend time with all these mighty educators!
A6 remembering that as a public educator I am a servant for our kids and community.
I love this! So important!
I hear it often frm vet Ts. "I'm just beat down" AKA: I need reminded & encouraged there is a mightier purpose!
A6: Be comfortable being uncomfortable. Try new things. Be willing to fail. Reflect and continually learn.
its the best place on earth!
I like the quote, "Treat students as if they were your own children."
Time slipped away and I missed ! I have some catching up to do!
WOW, great (but sad) stat!
A6) find joy everyday. Watch the Ss come in the building in the morning and listen to all the hope and all the promise.
My kids demand a lot, but they remind me everyday. Keeps me going!
Sorry, got distracted by Phelps vs Le Clos! I'm pumped!