In the aftermath of “Red for Ed” and in anticipation of the next election, it is imperative that we take the lessons learned these last few weeks and start expanding our networks. I was impressed by the volume of
Read More#WEIRDforED
I’d rather cough than take medicine. Sure, the medicine provides a good night’s sleep. But it makes me feel weird for days after. My mind lacks focus and doesn’t follow through on thoughts. My work ethic goes into the toilet.
Read MoreYou Have Changed. Now What?
Epic week, right? And it just keeps going. AZ educators have been on fire, passionately advocating for AZ kids. We have sacrificed time and taken big risks. We’ve been criticized by people who don’t understand what we’re fighting for. We’ve
Read MoreWhy I Walked
An invited response to Angela Buzan’s heartfelt piece on why she won’t walk out: http://www.storiesfromschoolaz.org/wont-strike-perspective/ I’m tired. I’ve taught in Arizona for 13 years of my 19 year career. I’ve watched from the front line as our state has starved the
Read MoreBreathe Fire
An educator’s year is a whirlwind. From the moments of returning back to school, to trainings, new colleagues, and new ideas to the first days of school with new names, new procedures, and new opportunities. Here we are, with a
Read MoreFamilies: A Call for Unity with #REDforED
So wow: A teacher strike. It’s a lot to take in. No doubt, upcoming school closures are causing families inconvenience and stress. It is difficult to find childcare, rearrange work schedules, and entertain little ones for extra days at home.
Read MoreClarity through Focus Groups (part 1)
Focus group questions projected on the Smartboard? Check. Handouts with the questions so the teachers can follow along? Check. The Asian food I had ordered for our group was out and other snacks are ready to be eaten. Clean tables
Read MoreTwo-By-Ten Strategy Part 1
Recently at my school, we have begun to look at those strained relationships with scholars as opportunities. You know the ones. The scholars that push us to our limits and challenge our patience. The scholars who test our good last
Read MoreAn Open Letter to a Young Gun Rights Advocate
Dear Young Person, I hear that you support gun rights. Maybe you’re from a rural area and don’t want to lose the guns you use for hunting and target practice. Maybe you’re from a red state and don’t own a gun but
Read MoreWhen the Political is Personal, and the Personal is Political
I think many of us have had conversations in schools, in neighborhoods, and around towns lately regarding the #RedforEd movement. As I became a National Board Certified Teacher, I learned that it is my responsibility and privilege to advocate for
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