The day teachers and students have been waiting for is finally here – the last day of school. Normally I cannot get out of my classroom fast enough, eager as can be to begin a much-needed summer break. I will
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Sawabona: I See You
Tribes in South Africa traditionally greet each other with “Sawabona,” which means “I see you.” The response is “Sikhona,” which translates to “I’m here.” As I watch my students finish up this busy school year, I’m making sure they feel
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Dear Future Self: End of Year Reflection
I am really excited about the changes coming to my district next year. Many of my peers are moving to new leadership positions, and I may even be working in a different capacity. For me, one of the best parts
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The first moments
Ahhhhhh April. The Palo Verdes are blooming, allergy medicine is sold out at both CVS and Walgreens, Promposals are seemingly happening everywhere. Spring has sprung in Arizona. April is the time when teacher’s thoughts turn to that of AZMerit and,
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Touching Isn’t It?
As the silly sideshow of our perennial presidential campaigns rolls on, touching is in the news. As thoughts and memories flow through my mind, one conclusion is clear: It’s s really not that hard to figure out when, where, how,
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2 Weeks of Action
It is part of our mission of the Arizona National Board Certified Teachers Network to raise awareness about the impact of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) on our students, schools, and profession. Many NBCTs have shared our stories about why
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Freshmen Transition: Creating Programs to Fit Your Needs
Thinking back to my first day of high school, I remember feeling anxiety, nervous excitement, and fear of the unknown. I grew up in a small tight-knit community and knew most of the students in my class as we entered
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When Tests Matter
Last April started the dreaded month of state testing. A month is not an exaggeration either—my juniors took the ACT and the writing AZ Merit tests the first week, the reading test for 2 days the next week, and finally
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Pin and Add to Cart
Teacher A: “I loved what I taught today; the kids were so engaged!” Teacher B: “I’m so glad you got to see today’s lesson!” Teacher C: “Did you see my new student-created periodic table?” As a beginning teacher mentor whose
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Dear Parents
Dear Parents, Thank you for entrusting us with your most prized possessions, your children, our children. Thank you for trusting and believing in us. Often times we as teachers and educators spend more time with your child, our child during
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