“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” Maya Angelou In Maine, there are only a handful of days before Summer Break. Educators are winding down lessons, schools are hosting field days, and students are graduating. The end of the school year might be a relief and signal …
Transitions can be hard. How to make them easier. Read More »
Creating strong connections with students is crucial for building a positive learning environment and academic success. Different age groups require different strategies. Younger students benefit from opportunities to play and build independence. Middle schoolers require authenticity and opportunities for self-expression. With high school students, educators should support future goal setting and use real-world examples. Here …
How Does Developmental Stage Inform Connections with Students? Read More »
In the first blog post, we described how to create a community agreement or shared vision for the year. Now is a fantastic time to check in on it. Here are three ways to revisit the vision: Take Pictures: Ask students to take photos of things that are working (or not working). Share photos and …
Three Creative Ways to Check In on Community Agreements Read More »
Create a Collaborative Agreement. Also called a Full Value Contract or Group Norms, a Collaborative Agreement invites all members of a community to express their goals and expected behaviors. In its simplest form: Frame the context with a vision statement or set of core values. Collectively brainstorm behaviors and/or goals that align with those ideals. Organize the brainstorm into positively …
Invite Student Voice and Develop a Shared Vision. Read More »