Pedagogue Blog

Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Decor

How to Make an Over-the-Door Organizer for Your Classroom

In a busy classroom, storage solutions are essential for keeping your space organized, clean, and clutter-free. An over-the-door organizer can provide additional storage without taking up valuable floor space. This article will guide you through the process of making a simple yet practical over-the-door organizer for your classroom.

Materials Required:

1. A large, sturdy piece of fabric (such as canvas or upholstery fabric) or an old curtain

2. Measuring tape

3. Scissors

4. Fabric marker or tailor’s chalk

5. Sewing machine or needle and thread

6. Plastic or metal grommets

7. Over-the-door hooks

Step 1: Measure the available space

Measure the width and height of your classroom door, subtracting any windows or other hardware present. Keep in mind that the organizer should not obstruct the door’s function or be too wide that it interferes with any adjacent walls.

Step 2: Cut and prepare the fabric

Using these measurements, cut out a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the targeted dimensions – add 2 inches to both width and height for seam allowances. Fold over a half-inch on each edge of the fabric and iron flat to create clean seams before sewing.

Step 3: Design your pockets

Based on your classroom’s organizational needs, sketch out how many pockets you would like to have in your organizer and their desired sizes using a fabric marker or tailor’s chalk. Consider factors such as what items you want to store (books, craft supplies, stationery), and plan accordingly.

Step 4: Create and attach pockets

To create pockets, cut rectangles from the remaining fabric, making them slightly larger than required for seam allowance. Fold over the edges as you did in step two, ironing them flat before sewing each pocket onto the main fabric panel along three sides. Leave the top edge open to form the pocket.

Repeat this process using your design as a guide, attaching each pocket to the main fabric panel as evenly and securely as possible.

Step 5: Install grommets and hooks

Starting from the top edge of the fabric panel, measure and mark even intervals for installing grommets along the width of your organizer. The number of grommets required depends on the width of your door and the weight of your intended storage items.

Following the instructions provided with your grommet kit, install each grommet securely in place. After all grommets are attached, slide over-the-door hooks through them, ensuring that they fit firmly onto the door.

Hang your new over-the-door organizer on your classroom door, filling it with items according to their designated pockets. Adjust the hooks as needed for a snug and secure fit. Your classroom now boasts an additional storage solution that not only keeps things organized but also maximizes space utilization. With this simple DIY project, you’ve made a functional and stylish addition to your learning environment!

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Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Management

Your First Year Teaching Means Grieving Your Former Self

Introduction:

When you step into the world of teaching, you embark on a new journey filled with challenges, opportunities, and growth. As you embark on your first year teaching, you will also begin the process of letting go of your former self and embracing your new identity as an educator. This transformation can be both exciting and daunting, but ultimately it is an essential part of your personal and professional development.

Facing the Challenge:

The first year of teaching is a whirlwind of new experiences, high expectations, and endless tasks to juggle. As a fledgling educator, there may be moments where you feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities that now rest on your shoulders. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings rather than suppress them. Give yourself permission to grieve the loss of your former life—a time that was perhaps filled with more freedom and fewer obligations.

Parting Ways With the Past:

In order to fully embrace your new role as a teacher, it’s vital to relinquish control over some aspects of your former self. For example, there might be hobbies or social activities that need to take a back seat in order to allocate more time for lesson-planning or marking homework. While this can be difficult at first, eventually you will adapt and find new ways to enjoy those activities—or maybe even discover some new passions along the way.

Embracing the New You:

As your first-year teaching progresses, you will begin to build strong connections with your students and experience the joy of making a positive impact on their lives. This is what makes the transition worth every sacrifice. Allow yourself time to grieve for what has been lost but also start appreciating the rewards that come with your newfound role.

Nurturing Growth:

In addition to redefining who you are as an individual, this transformative period also offers opportunities for personal growth and development. Use this first year as a chance to embrace change and learn from both your successes and failures. Seek support from colleagues, mentors, or join professional networks that can provide guidance and encouragement throughout your journey.

Looking Forward:

After the initial upheaval of your transition,closing of the first year’s mark as a teacher reveals a new you—one that is more resilient, adaptable, and purpose-driven. By fully embracing the profound impact you can make in the lives of your students and learning to adapt in your ever-evolving role, you will pave the way toward a successful and fulfilling career in education.

Conclusion:

Your first year of teaching involves a grieving process as you say goodbye to your former self and welcome your new identity as an educator. Embrace this journey by acknowledging the difficulties, celebrating your achievements and nurturing personal growth along the way. In doing so, you will find yourself stronger, more self-assured, and better equipped to fulfill your mission as an educator in the years to come.

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Matthew Lynch published in School Climate

COVID Shaming: The New Face of Bullying in School

In the age of COVID-19, a new form of bullying is emerging, as children return to schools for in-person classes. Known as ‘COVID shaming,’ this harmful phenomenon is creating an environment of unease and conflict between students. At its core, COVID shaming is the act of ridiculing or discriminating against someone based on their perceived compliance or non-compliance with coronavirus safety measures – and the consequences can be serious.

The Roots of COVID Shaming

The ongoing pandemic has amplified societies’ need for collective responsibility; adhering to guidelines for masking, sanitizing, and social distancing has become a critical part of daily life. However, the varying opinions on these measures have created an environment ripe for tension and even hostility. Among children and teenagers, these disagreements can manifest into bullying behavior.

Forms of COVID Shaming

COVID shaming can take many forms in the school setting. It might involve children mocking their peers for wearing masks or promoting social distancing. Alternatively, some students may be targeted because they contracted the virus or have a family member who did.

Essentially, any behavior that discriminates against students based on their perception of roles in the pandemic can be categorized as COVID shaming. This stigma attached to individuals deemed ‘non-compliant’ can have severe effects on mental health and social relationships.

Impact on Mental Health

Children subjected to bullying are at increased risk for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. With COVID shaming, victims may feel isolated from their friends and society while trying to adhere to preventative measures to ensure their safety. The shunning from friends, classmates or even teachers can breed more than just fear; it fosters mistrust and discord within the school community.

What Can Be Done?

Educators, parents, and community members must work together to raise awareness about this type of bullying and its profound impact. Schools should hold discussions and seminars to help students understand the importance of empathy while addressing misconceptions and fears about the virus.

It is essential to provide a supportive environment for children who have experienced COVID shaming. For this reason, counseling services should be offered to those who feel targeted or marginalized based on safety measures they choose to follow.

Parents should actively engage with their children about COVID-19 and help address any misconceptions or fears. They should explain the importance of masking, social distancing, and other safety measures while fostering respect for others in society. Encouraging open communication will create trust and understanding between family members.

Conclusion

COVID shaming is an unfortunate byproduct of the pandemic that is contributing to a toxic learning environment for many students. To combat this new form of bullying, it is crucial to cultivate awareness, empathy, and respect for one another’s decisions regarding safety measures. In doing so, we can work together to create a school environment where every child feels supported and safe during these uncertain times.

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Matthew Lynch published in Teaching Strategies, Tactics, and Methods

Teachers, What If Our Burnout Is Actually Grief

Introduction:

The teaching profession is filled with challenges and rewards, highs and lows. However, recent times have seen a sharp increase in the number of teachers experiencing burnout- a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. But what if this burnout we associate with the demands of our profession is not just exhaustion but actually grief? Let’s take a closer look at this possibility.

Understanding Grief:

Grief is an intense emotional and psychological response to loss. While it is often associated with the death of a loved one, grief can also be experienced due to other types of loss such as loss of a job, relationship, or health. It can manifest in various forms like anger, denial, depression, bargaining, and eventually acceptance.

Teaching Profession Losses:

Amidst the rapidly changing educational landscape, teachers face a unique set of losses that may contribute to grief emotions. Some of these losses include:

1. Loss of Traditional Teaching Practices – With the shift towards technology-based learning and new educational policies, many cherished teaching practices are slowly fading away. This change can be difficult for those who find fulfillment in their traditional teaching techniques.

2. Loss of Connection – Increased class sizes and heavy workloads leave teachers with little time to forge meaningful connections with students. This lack of connection can lead to feelings of isolation and sadness.

3. Loss of Autonomy – Teachers often feel increased pressure to adhere to strict guidelines and standardized testing requirements which can erode their sense of autonomy when it comes to creating lesson plans tailored for their students’ needs.

4. Loss of Stability – Job insecurity due to budget cuts, layoffs, or contract changes contributes to feelings of uncertainty about one’s professional future.

Recognizing Grief in Burnout:

To determine if your burnout might be grief-related, consider whether you experience any symptoms typically associated with grief such as:

– Intense sadness or sorrow

– Feeling detached or numb

– Irritability, anger, and frustration

– Persistent doubts about your abilities as an educator

– Fear of future losses in your professional life

Addressing Grief-Based Burnout:

If you suspect that your burnout might be linked to grief, it is important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Talk to a professional counselor, therapist, or a mental health professional who specializes in grief counseling.

2. Reach out to colleagues who might be experiencing similar feelings for a shared understanding and support.

3. Engage in self-care activities like exercise, meditation, journaling, and hobbies that bring you joy.

4. Advocate for changes within the education system that uphold teacher autonomy, adequate funding, and manageable workloads.

5. Maintain open communication with your school’s administration to discuss any concerns or suggestions related to job security and workplace expectations.

Conclusion:

As educators, our passion is fueled by the desire to make a difference in our students’ lives. However, it’s important that we address the emotional challenges faced by teachers so we can continue providing quality education while prioritizing our well-being. By recognizing that teacher burnout might be connected to grief from various losses within the profession, we can begin the healing process and emerge as more resilient and vibrant educators.
So let’s take care of ourselves and each other – because every teacher matters.

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Matthew Lynch published in Teachers

Teachers Unions Share Their Recommendations for Next Year

Introduction:

The ever-evolving landscape of education has experienced significant changes, primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As educators and administrators plan for the next academic year, teachers unions have come forward with a set of recommendations to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for students and faculty alike. These suggestions aim to tackle pressing concerns in schools ranging from safety measures, academic support, mental health, and more.

Safety Measures:

One of the primary concerns for teachers unions is ensuring the safety of students and staff during the ongoing pandemic. They recommend that schools adhere to guidelines provided by health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These guidelines include maintaining social distancing, implementing stringent sanitization protocols, adapting classroom layouts, and encouraging vaccination among eligible individuals.

Academic Support:

Teachers unions acknowledge the academic challenges faced by students during remote learning. Therefore, they suggest schools provide targeted support to help address knowledge gaps that may have arisen over time. This could include additional tutoring sessions, tailored learning plans, and close monitoring of students’ progress to adapt teaching strategies accordingly.

Mental Health:

Acknowledging the toll taken on mental health by the pandemic, teachers unions advocate for prioritizing mental well-being in educational spaces. Measures can include integrating mental health support in school-based programs or offering resources such as counseling services for both students and teachers. Fostering a supportive culture and reducing stressors will contribute positively to balancing workloads and mental well-being.

Professional Development:

Recognizing that teachers have been at the forefront during these trying times, teachers unions propose ongoing professional development opportunities. Workshops targeted at enhancing remote teaching skills or incorporating hybrid learning approaches will empower educators to better adapt to new methods of instruction. Furthermore, investing in training programs supporting socio-emotional development will benefit both educators and students alike.

Advocacy and Engagement:

Finally, teachers unions emphasize the need for increased advocacy for equitable education opportunities. Open communication between stakeholders—educators, parents, policymakers—can help drive the necessary actions to support learners and teachers alike in recovering from the pandemic’s impact.

Conclusion:

As we approach the next academic year, taking into account the recommendations shared by various teachers unions is essential for creating a safe and nurturing educational environment. With a focus on safety measures, academic support, mental health, professional development, and advocacy, all stakeholders can collaborate to adapt to new normal educational settings in the best possible manner.

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Matthew Lynch published in Books

5 Beautiful Picture Books That Show Students How They Can Change the World

In a world filled with challenges and opportunities, it is essential to instill a sense of empowerment, curiosity, and determination in the young minds of today. One of the best ways to achieve this is through storytelling. Picture books are particularly effective in conveying powerful messages to children as they learn from vivid illustrations and engaging tales.

Here are 5 beautiful picture books that will inspire your students and show them that changing the world is possible with creativity, hard work, and an unwavering spirit.

1. ‘The Water Princess’ by Susan Verde

In ‘The Water Princess,’ Susan Verde explores the story of a girl named Gie Gie, who dreams of bringing clean drinking water to her African village. Based on the real-life experience of supermodel Georgie Badiel, this touching story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, empathy, and hope in making a difference. The Water Princess inspires children to take on global issues like water scarcity and think about their impact on other communities.

2. ‘Malala’s Magic Pencil’ by Malala Yousafzai

This inspiring book tells the true story of Malala Yousafzai, who stood up for girls’ education in Pakistan despite the threats she faced. ‘Malala’s Magic Pencil’ teaches children about resilience, courage, and standing up for what they believe in. It’s an eye-opening book that will encourage students not only to appreciate their education but also to recognize their power to create positive change.

3. ‘The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with the Chimps’ by Jeanette Winter

Jeanette Winter’s ‘The Watcher’ follows the incredible life journey of Jane Goodall, one of the world’s most renowned primatologists and conservationists. Her dedication to understanding chimpanzees in their natural habitat led to groundbreaking discoveries and her advocacy for environmental conservation. This picture book highlights the power of curiosity and dedication, teaching children how one person can profoundly impact the world through research and activism.

4. ‘The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind’ by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer

This uplifting true story is about a young boy named William, who overcomes severe hardships to bring electricity and water to his drought-stricken village in Malawi. Using ingenuity, perseverance, and determination, he builds a windmill from scrap materials to generate power. ‘The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind’ inspires students to think creatively, never give up on their dreams, and appreciate the role of science in creating change.

5. ‘Planting the Trees of Kenya: The Story of Wangari Maathai’ by Claire A. Nivola

‘Planting the Trees of Kenya’ is a captivating picture book that tells the inspiring story of Wangari Maathai, a Nobel Peace Prize winner who fought deforestation in her home country through tree planting initiatives. This uplifting book will inspire students to become proactive environmental stewards, demonstrating that even small acts can have a significant impact on our planet.

Picture books have a unique way of captivating young minds and opening up new worlds of possibilities. By incorporating these powerful stories into your classroom or home library, you inspire your students to see themselves as potential agents of positive change in our ever-evolving world.

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Matthew Lynch published in Education Leadership

How to Transform School Recess and Improve School Culture

Introduction:

Recess is an important aspect of the school day, giving students the opportunity to unwind, socialize, and engage in physical activity. However, recess can also be a chaotic and unproductive time, leading to unnecessary conflicts and negative influences on school culture. This article outlines various strategies that schools can implement to enhance recess experiences and promote a positive learning environment.

1. Create Structured Play Zones:

Divide the playground into designated play zones that cater to different interests, age groups, and abilities. This can include a quiet zone for reading or drawing, a sports area for organized games, an imaginative play section with props and costumes, and a free-play zone for spontaneous activities. When students are aware of their space options, it encourages them to participate in activities they enjoy while minimizing conflicts.

2. Set Clear Expectations and Enforce Appropriate Behavior:

Establish clear guidelines for appropriate conduct during recess time. Encourage students to respect one another’s space, share equipment fairly, and demonstrate good sportsmanship. Implement a conflict resolution system, such as utilizing “peace corners” where students can vent their frustrations or resolve disagreements independently.

3. Train Adult Supervisors:

Provide training for teachers or adult supervisors on effective recess management techniques, such as proactive supervision and facilitation of inclusive activities. This will create safer environments for students while also minimizing bullying incidents.

4. Incorporate Physical Education Teachers or Coaches:

Incorporating physical education instructors or coaches into the playground rotation can help organize games effectively and maintain engagement in physical activities. This approach fosters team spirit while teaching valuable life skills like cooperation, leadership, and perseverance.

5. Formulate Recess Committees:

Develop student-led recess committees responsible for planning fun events like spirit days or theme-based activities that build a sense of community among pupils. Getting students involved in organizing their own breaks promotes autonomy as well as ownership of the school culture.

6. Utilize Peer Mentoring Programs:

Introduce peer mentoring programs where older students tutor and guide younger students during recess. This fosters meaningful relationships and leadership opportunities, and ensures that all students find their niche at school.

7. Encourage Parent Involvement:

Invite parents to participate in activities such as coordinating recess clubs or volunteering as playground supervisors, creating a sense of unity among all stakeholders in the school community.

Conclusion:

Transforming school recess into a well-rounded and engaging experience can have profound effects on overall school culture by encouraging positive behaviors, strengthening student relationships, and enhancing the academic environment. By implementing these strategies, schools can create an inclusive and healthy atmosphere where children flourish—and recess remains an essential component of a well-rounded education.

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Matthew Lynch published in Reading Education

24 Ways to Motivate Beginning Readers

1. Set up a cozy reading corner: Create a comfortable and inviting space for your child to read and relax.

2. Choose engaging books: Select high-interest books with captivating illustrations, relatable characters, and age-appropriate content.

3. Read together: Dedicate time each day for reading together, taking turns to read pages or sentences.

4. Show enthusiasm: Share your own love of reading by discussing your favorite books and expressing excitement about reading time.

5. Use audiobooks: Supplement physical books with engaging audiobooks that can capture their imagination.

6. Play word games: Incorporate enjoyable word games into daily routines to help strengthen vocabulary and reading skills.

7. Make connections: Help children make connections between the stories they read and real-life experiences.

8. Encourage personal choice: Let children choose which books they want to read to ensure they are invested in the story.

9. Set attainable goals: Set realistic reading goals for your child to achieve and reward them when they reach those goals.

10. Provide positive reinforcement: Praise your child’s efforts, even if they struggle with certain words or concepts.

11. Create a personalized book collection: Build a special collection of books tailored to the child’s interests as motivation to read more frequently.

12. Visit the library regularly: Encourage a love of literature by visiting the local library and exploring different genres.

13. Read aloud frequently: Engage in read-aloud sessions where you model fluent reading strategies for your child to imitate.

14. Use diverse formats: Introduce children to graphic novels, picture books, magazines, and other literary forms to maintain their interest.

15. Integrate technology: Utilize digital platforms with interactive features like animations and quizzes to support their learning process.

16. Join a book club or group: Participate in group readings or book discussions with other children to foster communication skills and motivation.

17. Implement a reward system: Create a motivating reward system based on reading goals like stickers or extra playtime.

18. Discuss stories: Encourage children to share their thoughts and feelings about the books they are reading, promoting a sense of accomplishment.

19. Make it interactive: Use props, costumes, or other visual aids to bring stories to life during reading time.

20. Focus on favorite topics: Find books that cover subjects your child is passionate about to keep them engaged and motivated.

21. Take it outdoors: Read in various locations, such as at the park or beach, to provide a change of scenery and cultivate interest.

22. Create a reading routine: Establish a consistent reading schedule to develop good reading habits over time.

23. Encourage peer recommendations: Allow friends and classmates to suggest books they enjoyed and help build camaraderie through shared interests.

24. Be patient and persistent: Remember that every child learns at their own pace – be supportive, patient, and celebrate their progress along the way!

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Matthew Lynch published in Digital & Mobile Technology

How One Teacher is Amping Up the Engagement in Her Virtual Classroom

In a world quickly pivoting to remote learning, it’s more vital than ever to keep students engaged in their education. One teacher, in particular, has found innovative ways of capturing her students’ attention and making virtual classrooms a hub for truly interactive and enjoyable learning experiences. Here’s a closer look at her journey and how she’s transforming online learning from mundane screens to a lively world of exploration.

Meet Sarah Thompson, a 6th-grade Science teacher from Austin, Texas, who has been teaching for the past ten years. When schools went remote last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah quickly realized that traditional teaching methods would not suffice in holding her students’ interest through a screen. She saw student engagement levels drop significantly in the first few weeks of online learning and knew that something had to change.

Determined to turn things around, Sarah began actively researching techniques for increasing engagement in virtual classrooms. The desired outcome was to create hands-on learning experiences that fostered curiosity and inspired creativity among her students.

To achieve this, Sarah started by gamifying her lessons. Using engaging storytelling techniques, she would narrate each lesson like a captivating story or present an exciting quest for her students to embark upon. This ignited their imagination as they eagerly listened and actively participated in class discussions and exercises.

Despite being online, one innovative method Sarah adopted is integrating team-based activities during her lessons. Sending small groups of students into virtual breakout rooms allowed them to collaborate, come up with creative solutions to problems, and learn how their classmates approach different challenges.

Moreover, Sarah began leveraging various digital tools designed explicitly for virtual classrooms and educational purposes. By incorporating interactive quizzes with tools like Kahoot! or Quizizz, she made it fun for her students while simultaneously reinforcing essential concepts.

Sarah also recognized the power of giving her students choices in how they tackled various projects and assignments. By allowing them to select specific topics or presentation formats, students had a sense of ownership and personal connection to their work. This flexibility brought creativity to the forefront as they innovatively showcased their learning.

Lastly, Sarah strived to build a sense of community in her virtual classroom. Starting each class by asking a fun question or having a short conversation about how their day was going helped create a bond between the students. This warmth and camaraderie translated into higher engagement levels during lessons.

The impact of Sarah’s efforts has been outstanding, with many parents complimenting the improvement in their children’s interest in the subject matter. By embracing new teaching strategies and utilizing digital tools, she has managed to create an engaging virtual classroom where students have fun while learning. Sarah Thompson’s journey serves as an inspiration for educators everywhere looking to enhance their students’ online learning experiences during these unprecedented times.

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Matthew Lynch published in Teaching Strategies, Tactics, and Methods

“Don’t Smile ’til Christmas”: A Teacher’s Worst Advice

Introduction

Traditional teaching methods have always held a strong presence in the education system. One such approach, often mistaken for valuable advice, is “Don’t smile ’til Christmas.” This phrase is commonly used as a classroom management technique to assert authority and create an atmosphere of seriousness. However, in recent years, it has faced criticism from educational experts who argue that this old adage is harmful and counterproductive to the learning process. This article will discuss the reasons why “Don’t smile ’til Christmas” is considered a teacher’s worst advice.

Creating Fear Instead of Respect

The core idea behind this piece of advice is that establishing strict rules early on helps teachers gain respect from students. However, this approach often results in a tense environment where students feel anxious and fearful. Children require a nurturing and supportive atmosphere to learn effectively. Developing relationships built on trust fosters a more productive and mutually respectful classroom.

Hindering Communication

By adopting a stern demeanor, teachers limit their opportunities for open communication with their students. When educators present themselves as unapproachable, students might be less likely to seek help or ask questions out of fear of reprimand. Consequently, learning becomes stunted, as children miss out on getting essential clarification or guidance on academic subjects.

Misinterpretation of Authority

While asserting one’s authority as a teacher is crucial for effective classroom management, there is a fine line between authority and intimidation. “Don’t smile ’til Christmas” encourages teachers to show dominance in an unhealthy manner, which risks misinterpreting authority for dominance and control. Instead, educators can positively establish order by being consistent, fair, and clear with their expectations.

Negative Impact on Teacher-Student Relationships

A teacher’s role goes beyond transmitting information; they are responsible for fostering connections with their students. Emotional connections play a pivotal role in providing support when addressing personal issues, discussing academic concerns, or celebrating successes. The “Don’t smile ’til Christmas” mentality creates a barrier between teachers and students, hindering the formation of meaningful relationships crucial for the overall growth and well-being of the children.

Alternatives to “Don’t Smile ’til Christmas”

Instead of this harmful traditional advice, teachers can adopt more effective classroom management strategies, such as:

1. Building positive relationships through open communication, empathy, and understanding.

2. Implementing consistent rules and procedures that are clearly stated and reinforced.

3. Engaging in active listening and providing constructive feedback.

4. Encouraging cooperation among students through group activities and collaborative projects.

5. Recognizing achievements and rewarding good behavior in an unbiased way.

Conclusion

“Don’t smile ’til Christmas” is an outdated teaching strategy that can inflict long-term negative effects on students’ learning experiences and emotional development. As education evolves to meet the needs of modern society, new and more effective approaches must replace these harmful methods. By fostering a positive classroom environment built on mutual respect, open communication, and emotional connectivity, teachers provide their students with not only academic support but also help shape them into well-rounded individuals ready to face the world’s challenges.

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Matthew Lynch published in Classroom Management

10 Interactive Morning Meeting Google Slides for January

Introduction:

Welcome to the new year! Morning meetings are a powerful way to kickstart the day, engage students and create a sense of community within your classroom. To help you build a vibrant and interactive morning meeting in January, we’ve compiled a list of 10 Interactive Morning Meeting Google Slides perfect for this snowy month.

1. New Year’s Resolution:

Start the year off right with an interactive slide that encourages students to share their New Year’s resolutions. Engage in a discussion about goal-setting and foster a supportive environment!

2. Winter Fun Bingo:

Bring some fun competition into your morning meetings with Winter Fun Bingo. Include activities like making snow angels, drinking hot chocolate, and reading by the fireplace for an engaging January icebreaker.

3. Snowflake Storytelling:

Develop students’ creative storytelling skills with this slide where each student adds on to an ever-growing story inspired by unique snowflake designs.

4. Thankful Thursdays:

Foster gratitude within your classroom with this heartwarming slide that encourages students to share what they are thankful for each Thursday.

5. January Trivia:

Stimulate young minds with fun and educational trivia questions centered around events that have happened throughout the month in history, literature, and more.

6. Inspirational Quote of the Week:

Share motivational quotes from famous personalities each Monday morning. Foster discussions and reflections on how students can apply the message to their own lives.

7. Winter-themed Would You Rather:

Develop critical thinking with fun winter-themed scenarios in this classic “Would You Rather” game slide!

8. Mindful Minute:

Help cultivate mindfulness among your students with mindfulness exercises or guided meditations each day as part of your morning meeting routine.

9. Cozy Reading Corner Show-and-Tell:

Promote literacy by encouraging students to share their favorite books or newly discovered reads during your January morning meetings.

10. Snowy Show-and-Tell:

Create a sense of excitement around the winter by asking students to share their favorite winter activity, snow day memory, or a unique snowflake-shaped item from home.

Conclusion:

These 10 interactive morning meeting Google Slides are excellent tools for building classroom community and stimulating your student’s minds in January. Make your morning meetings more engaging and memorable by trying out these interactive prompts that encourage students to connect with one another and start their day on a positive note.

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Matthew Lynch published in Schools

Help! Should I Tell My New School I’m Gay

Introduction

Starting at a new school can be a challenging and often nerve-wracking experience. You might have various concerns ranging from making new friends to keeping up with the curriculum. For LGBTQ+ youth, an additional concern may be whether or not to come out about their sexual orientation. Deciding to share this aspect of your life with others, especially during such a transitional period, can be daunting. In this article, we will explore some factors that might help you make an informed decision about whether or not to come out as gay in your new school.

Evaluate the School Environment

Before making any decisions, take some time to assess the overall environment of your new school. This might include:

1. The school’s policies on diversity and inclusivity.

2. Resources available for LGBTQ+ students.

3. The attitude of the staff and administration towards LGBTQ+ issues.

4. Instances of bullying and harassment in the school.

5. Presence of a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) or similar supportive group.

The more information you have, the better positioned you’ll be to make a decision that suits your unique situation.

Consider Your Comfort Level

In addition to understanding the environment, assess your personal comfort level in sharing this part of your identity with your peers and teachers:

1. Are you comfortable discussing your sexual orientation with others?

2. Have you come out to friends and family before? If so, how were these experiences?

3. What are your biggest fears and concerns about revealing this information?

4. What benefits do you hope to gain from coming out?

If you feel that sharing your sexual orientation will positively impact your well-being and self-confidence, it may be worth considering.

Weigh Pros and Cons

Consider both the potential positive outcomes and potential risks involved in coming out in your new school:

Pros:

– Authentic relationships: Coming out can help foster deeper connections with peers and create new friendships.

– Empowerment: Being open about your sexual orientation may be liberating and help you develop a stronger sense of self.

– Support: Coming out could encourage others to come forward and share their experiences.

Cons:

– Bullying/Discrimination: Unfortunately, some individuals may respond negatively, leading to unwanted situations.

– Pressure/Stress: Coming out might lead to additional stress due to addressing difficult conversations or judgments from others.

– Family Reaction: In some cases, word of your coming out may travel back to unsupportive family members.
Speak with Trusted Adults

It can be helpful to talk to a trusted adult, such as a family member, teacher, or school counselor. They can offer valuable insights, guidance, and support during this period. Be sure to choose someone who will respect your privacy and support your decision.

Take Your Time

There is no right or wrong answer when deciding if you should come out as gay in your new school. Remember that coming out is a deeply personal decision, and you need to prioritize your comfort and safety. It’s okay to take your time in making this decision, and it’s entirely up to you when and how you come out.

Conclusion

Starting a new school while grappling with the idea of coming out as gay can be challenging. It’s essential to evaluate the school environment and your own comfort level before making any decisions. Take the time you need to consider pros and cons and talk with trusted adults who can offer guidance. Ultimately, the choice should always be yours – on your terms and in your time.

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