When is the “right” to retain a student? Every year we deal with this question and every year it is the same question we must answer, what good will it do? This year was no different. We started off the
Read MoreAnything but Standard
It’s the most frightening time of the year. The sun starts to shine as I’m driving to school in the morning. Some of my favorite lessons are taught during the spring. Being an avid hiker and explorer, my weekends are
Read MoreEmpowering Teachers: A Strategy For Teacher Retention
I thought I knew what my next professional development cycle would be. Then I reviewed the results of a student survey I gave and realized I needed to go in a different direction for my PD cycle. Our administration seeks
Read MoreWhat’s the Priority?
There have been a lot of changes in my district this year, many being controversial. One of the least controversial changes has been the adoption of what we are calling “priority standards”. That is until I walk into the room.
Read MoreLegislators are in Session
The newly elected Arizona Legislators are off and running for the 2023 session, and already things are off to an interesting start. Here are some highlights and notable bills to watch this year. 1. The Arizona Senate and House voted
Read MoreFunding Woes
Aggregate expenditure limit…you may have heard this term recently, or maybe you remember the panic last year as the AEL loomed over public schools. Either way, be ready to hear about this term again as the deadline to override it
Read MoreOld Obstacles, New Opportunities
“To teachers and ed support professionals: I see you, I respect you & I will always stand up for you.” -Katie Hobbs, State of the State Speech 2023 For the first time in 14 years an Arizona governor prioritized public
Read MoreSEL Exit Tickets
How well do you really know your students? Do you know their inner-thoughts, interests, hopes, dreams, fears, and worries? Do you know who their friends and frenemies are? There is a pretty easy way to learn a lot, and
Read MoreElection Reflection
Another Arizona election is in the rearview mirror and I’m tired. For Arizona public education advocates, election season is emotionally, mentally, and physically grueling. It’s been 3 weeks since election day and I’m still exhausted. Those who dedicate their time
Read MoreStressful Subbing Situation
Period subbing in a secondary school setting in the state of Arizona is sort of inevitable right now. When I first started teaching, we had a few consistent middle school substitutes but they are becoming extremely rare. There are weeks
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