It has been over 20 years since I took my first job as a teacher. When I reflect on the valuable tools that have allowed me to grow as an educator since then, one has been by belonging to professional
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School Is Not Optional
Working with students who have developed aggression patterns is one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made in my career. Not only have I learned about who I am as a person, but I have the opportunity to
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Is The Grass Greener on the Other Side? The Pros and Cons of Teaching Online, In-Person, and Hybrid Models in a Pandemic
Which teaching model best serves students in a pandemic? This year has shown that there is not a one size fits all model for teaching in a pandemic and that no matter which learning model you have chosen there are
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The Number for this year is 8
8 learning models 8 first days of school 8 changes of lesson format 8 adjustments to the schedule 8 changes to the pacing guide That is what my school year has looked like. I was scheduled to report to school
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Supporting First Year Teachers
Next month, thousands of college students across Arizona and the country will proudly move their graduation tassels from right to left, signifying the completion of their degree. This momentous occasion symbolizes their hard work and dedication as they worked toward
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Get Connected
There are over 3.6 million teachers in the United States. Many of these teachers are quiet giants. They are creating innovative lessons and having a positive impact on their students every day. These teachers are different makers in their school
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If not now, when? If not you, who?
If you went to PreK-12 in Arizona, I have a survey for you. What grade were you in when you learned the following: In 1943, Asian Americas living west of Grand Avenue in Glendale, AZ went to interment camps; however,
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Resilience and Adults
Multiple times this year adults have said to me that they feel so sorry for children who have to wear masks all day long, or practice social distancing, or do any of the many, many mitigation strategies that have helped
Read MoreBuilding A Winning Team!
I’m sure I’m not alone in the belief that my school team is the best. I know many of you would look at the team of people you work with and wouldn’t want any other group of educators. I’m
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Lessons from Brooks’s Preschool Classroom
Ring, ring. “Hi! This is Mrs. Clark. I am your student’s English teacher.” In my 8th year of teaching, I feel comfortable picking up the phone, calling a student’s home, and saying those words. FINALLY. The act of calling families
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