Teachers

As the fall season approaches, teachers worldwide know all too well that the infamous “Dark, Evil Vortex of Late September, October, and November,” or DEVOLSON, is just around the corner. This challenging period leaves educators exhausted and longing for a break. To help lighten the mood during this trying time, we’ve compiled a list of 15 funny and inspiring DEVOLSON teacher memes to put a smile on your face.

1. “It’s DEVOLSON season! Keep calm and carry a pumpkin spice latte.”

This meme reminds teachers to take a break and enjoy their favorite fall beverage while tackling their heavy workloads.

2. “When you realize it’s only October, and you’re already counting down to winter break.”

This meme captures the eagerness of teachers looking forward to a well-deserved holiday.

3. “Grading papers on a weekend – because who needs free time, right?”

A fun jab at the mountain of papers that never seems to diminish even during weekends.

4. “Raise your hand if you’ve experienced DEVOLSON!”

An animated skeleton hand shoots up from the ground amidst fallen leaves – a humorous reference to the weariness experienced by teachers during this time.

5. “When parents say they don’t understand why teachers look so tired in November…”

This meme features a teacher with bags under their eyes sporting an all-too-accurate zombie look.

6. “Trying to balance lesson planning, grading, parent conferences, and my sanity like… ”

A picture of a tightrope walker with an enormous stack of textbooks in each hand perfectly encapsulates the juggling act that teachers face during DEVOLSON.

7. “Just when I thought I was ahead on grading and lesson planning… DEVOLSON strikes again!”

A cute puppy being swarmed by falling leaves represents how quickly DEVOLSON can overcome even the most prepared of teachers.

8. “Hang in there! DEVOLSON is almost over!”

An adorable cat hanging onto a branch encourages teachers to persevere through the tough times.

9. “When you’re trying to stay positive, but DEVOLSON keeps testing you.”

Featuring Kermit the Frog with pursed lips and a forced smile – an image relatable to many educators.

10. “Tired? Overworked? Welcome to DEVOLSON!”

This cheeky welcome sign resonates with teachers facing the whirlwind of fall responsibilities.

11. “I survived DEVOLSON…and all I got was this mug.”

A play on the popular vacation souvenir saying serves as a humorous reminder that surviving these challenging months is an achievement in itself.

12. “Finding time for self-care during DEVOLSON be like…”

A cutesy illustration of a teacher attempting yoga while balancing textbooks and coffee cups on their limbs exemplifies the struggle of finding time for self-care.

13. “Keep calm and teach on!”

An inspiring declaration for teachers to maintain their cool during DEVOLSON despite feeling overwhelmed.

14. “DEVOLSON: The season where scary movies don’t stand a chance against your lesson plan schedule.”

A clever comparison highlights the true terror of juggling various tasks during this period.

15. “That feeling when you’ve made it through DEVOLSON.”

A triumphant Leonardo DiCaprio raising his glass in celebration marks a well-earned end to another year’s DEVOLSON cycle.

These memes provide laughter and support for educators braving yet another DEVOLSON season. Remember, teachers – you are not alone in this vortex, and these funny images remind us all that sometimes humor is the best remedy when faced with overwhelming challenges.

1. The sweet satisfaction of perfectly aligning bulletin boards and displays.

2. The nostalgic smell of fresh photocopies and textbooks.

3. The thrill of hearing students have an “aha!” moment during one of your lessons.

4. Classroom celebrations for holidays, birthdays, and achievements.

5. A growing collection of teacher mugs, pens, and tote bags from appreciative students.

6. The art of multitasking – teaching, grading, and managing a classroom simultaneously.

7. The seamless switch between your “teacher voice” and your regular speaking voice.

8. Staying calm during fire drills, lockdowns, and other emergencies.

9. Constantly keeping up with changes in curriculum and educational standards.

10. Using overhead projectors and chalkboards before the days of smart boards and tablets.

11. Watching a class full of students progress from nervous newcomers to confident learners.

12. The artful organization of seating charts to minimize distractions and promote engagement.

13. Finding creative ways to encourage group work and collaboration among students.

14. Always knowing where to find extra paper, pencils, markers, or glue sticks when needed.

15. Receiving surprise visits from students who have moved on to other grades or schools but fondly remember your class.

16. Skillfully navigating parent-teacher conferences with diplomacy and tact.

17. Learning how to gain the attention of a rowdy class without raising your voice or losing your cool.

18. Keeping a tally of funny things students say or do to remember after a long day.

19. Knowing that a well-timed break or brain-stretcher activity can make all the difference in a lesson’s success.

20. Balancing the emotional weight of personal relationships with students while maintaining professional boundaries.

21-40: (the following points may be shortened for brevity)

21-25: Experiencing the evolution of technology in the classroom.

26-30: Observing various leadership styles through numerous administration changes.

31-35: Embracing growth opportunities through professional development workshops and conferences.

36-40: Bonding with colleagues over shared classroom experiences, successes, and challenges.

41. Developing personalized plans for students with diverse needs and learning styles.

42. Overcoming time management hurdles by grading papers during lunch breaks or personal activities.

43. Perfecting your copy machine troubleshooting techniques.

44. Always having a plan B (and sometimes C) when a lesson or activity doesn’t go as planned.

45. Surviving countless budget cuts, curriculum updates, and testing requirements while still focusing on student success.

46. Observing social changes in students over the years – from fashion trends to technology use.

47. Seeing former students as colleagues when they return to work in the education field themselves.

48. Feeling the pride of sending your students off to high school, college, and beyond – knowing you played a part in their development.

49. Witnessing precious moments between student friendships that may last a lifetime.

50. The undeniable joy and sense of accomplishment that comes with knowing you’ve impacted the lives of countless children.

Teaching for more than a decade brings about many challenges, but the rewards are endless. Experience plays a major role in shaping not only how you educate but also how you view your purpose and impact within the roles you’ve held. As an educator with over 10 years of experience, there are undoubtedly countless memories that resonate, each serving as a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and dedication within the teaching profession.

In recent years, the debate around rewards and prizes in the educational setting has attracted significant attention. Proponents argue that these incentives offer powerful motivation for students to excel in their studies, while others contend that it promotes unhealthy competition and detracts from the true purpose of learning. One teacher, who has seen the shortcomings of this system firsthand, makes a compelling case against relying on rewards and prizes to motivate students in the classroom.

To begin with, using rewards as motivators often leads to a focus on short-term goals instead of the broader educational experience. Students may become preoccupied with earning a prize or recognition, losing sight of the larger objective: namely, academic growth. Indeed, when the primary target is to achieve good grades to win an award or gain favor, students might resort to memorizing facts without actually understanding the underlying concepts. This can result in superficial learning outcomes.

Another issue concerns extrinsic versus intrinsic motivation. Extrinsic motivation refers to seeking external rewards or avoiding negative consequences, such as tangible incentives like prizes or fear of punishment. In contrast, intrinsic motivation involves engaging in activities purely for personal interest or inherent satisfaction. Research consistently demonstrates that intrinsic motivation fosters higher levels of creativity, autonomy, and long-lasting engagement in learning activities. When students are driven by external factors like rewards and prizes, their intrinsic motivation may diminish; this can consequently hamper their desire to learn for learning’s sake.

Furthermore, the use of rewards and prizes fosters a competitive environment that can be detrimental to collaborative learning. Students may become more focused on outperforming their peers than joining forces to work together on complex problems or projects. In addition, students who fail to win awards or recognition might feel discouraged or marginalized, affecting their self-esteem and overall emotional well-being.

Another pitfall is that rewards disproportionately benefit students who already excel in academics while failing to address the needs of struggling students who might require additional support. The focus on a meritocratic system may exacerbate the divide between high-achieving learners and those who have difficulty excelling in conventional classroom settings.

Lastly, relying on rewards and prizes compromises autonomy, which research supports as a crucial factor in fostering motivation. When students are compelled to perform well for rewards rather than personal satisfaction or growth, educators diminish opportunities for self-directed learning. Students should be encouraged to take responsibility for their educational journey, a critical preparation for success in future academic pursuits and life beyond the classroom.

In conclusion, this teacher’s perspective on rewards and prizes highlights their potential drawbacks in the educational setting. Instead of promoting superficial short-term success, fostering competition, and discouraging autonomy, educators should aim to cultivate a love of learning that lasts long after the prizes have been handed out.

As I stand in front of the classroom each day, eager to impart knowledge and facilitate learning, there are certain things that I wish my students knew. These are insights that could potentially enhance their educational experience and create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all.

1. You are not defined by your grades.

While academic achievements matter, it is crucial to understand that your self-worth goes beyond the scores on your transcript. It is essential to find a balance between striving for excellence and realizing that everyone has unique strengths, talents, and interests.

2. Asking questions is encouraged.

Never be afraid to ask questions in class or seek clarification when you don’t understand something. Curiosity is an essential aspect of the learning process, and it’s vital to speak up if you need help. Remember, chances are someone else in the class has the same question too.

3. It’s okay to make mistakes.

Making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process, and it is crucial for personal growth. Embrace these moments as opportunities to learn and improve instead of feeling discouraged or embarrassed.

4. Your input matters.

As educators, we appreciate when students actively engage in classroom discussions and share their unique perspectives. Your contributions help create dynamic lessons that benefit the whole group, so don’t be shy – we value your voice.

5. Mental health is important.

Learning can be stressful at times, and managing mental well-being is essential for success both inside and outside the classroom. Seek support when you’re feeling overwhelmed or be open about any challenges you’re facing with your educators; we want you to succeed not only academically but also personally.

6. Collaboration fosters growth.

Working together with peers can provide valuable interpersonal skills essential in life beyond school. Make an effort to collaborate with others whenever possible and learn from one another’s perspectives – it will only enrich your educational journey.

7. Time management is key.

Develop proper time management habits early on to reduce stress and help balance schoolwork with other aspects of your life. This includes breaking tasks into smaller chunks, setting realistic deadlines, and prioritizing your responsibilities.

8. Embrace diversity.

As individuals, we each bring unique backgrounds, experiences, and ideas to the table. Be open to connecting with your peers, engaging in respectful dialogue about cultural differences, and embracing these valuable opportunities for growth.

9. Seek extracurriculars that interest you.

Pursuing interests outside of academics can enhance your learning experience and help you uncover previously unknown passions. Whether it’s joining a club, playing sports, or volunteering in the community – extracurricular activities can provide balance and enjoyment along your educational journey.

10. Believe in yourself.

You have the power to overcome obstacles and reach your full potential armed with determination and self-belief. Trust in your capabilities even when faced with challenges – always remember that we, your teachers, are here to support you every step of the way.

As a teacher, you work hard to shape the minds of the next generation. However, making sense of your own teacher paycheck can be confusing. This article will walk you through the process of understanding your teacher paycheck, so you can focus on what matters most – educating your students.

1. Start by knowing your gross pay

Your gross pay is your total earnings before any deductions are taken out. This amount is likely indicated at the top of your paycheck as “Gross Pay” or “Total Earnings.” It’s important to recognize that this amount is different from your take-home pay, as taxes and other deductions will be removed from it.

2. Identify all deductions

Deductions are amounts that are subtracted from your gross pay. There are two main categories of deductions: pre-tax and post-tax.
Pre-tax deductions are expenses taken out of your paycheck before taxes are calculated, reducing your taxable income. Some common pre-tax deductions include health insurance premiums, retirement contributions (such as a 401(k) plan), and flexible spending accounts for medical or dependent care expenses.

Post-tax deductions are expenses taken out after taxes have been calculated. These may include union dues, life insurance premiums, disability insurance, and charitable donations made through payroll deduction.

3. Understand federal and state income taxes

Your teacher paycheck will have both federal and state income taxes withheld based on your wages and filing status (single, married, head of household, etc.). The amount withheld for each tax depends on the information provided on your W-4 form when you were hired or when you last updated it.

4. Social Security and Medicare taxes

In addition to income taxes, Social Security and Medicare taxes (also known as FICA taxes) are automatically withheld from each paycheck and account for 7.65% of your gross pay (6.2% for Social Security and 1.45% for Medicare).

5. Know your net pay

After all your deductions and taxes have been accounted for, the remaining amount on your paycheck is your net pay, which is sometimes referred to as “take-home pay.” This is the actual amount you’ll receive via direct deposit or check. Make sure to compare this amount to your budget and expenses, ensuring you’re on track with your financial goals.

6. Examine other relevant information

Aside from monetary amounts, your teacher paycheck may also contain the number of sick days or personal days accrued and taken, your year-to-date earnings, and any additional benefits you may be entitled to as part of your employment.

By understanding each element of your teacher paycheck, you can confidently plan for the future and make informed financial decisions. Remember to review each paycheck for accuracy and consult with a financial professional or human resources representative if you have any questions or concerns.

Summer is not only a time for rest and relaxation for teachers but also an opportunity to engage in personal and professional growth. Although there are numerous traditional professional development opportunities available, it’s important to explore unconventional ideas that can enrich a teacher’s ongoing learning journey. Here are ten unique and exciting ways for educators to further their professional development during the summer months.

1. TED Talks for Educators – Delve into the world of TED talks with presentations that specifically cater to educators. These talks cover topics like innovative teaching methods, collaboration strategies, and powerful stories from teachers around the world.

2. Yoga and Meditation Retreats – Embrace mindfulness and healthy living practices by attending a yoga or meditation retreat. These experiences can improve mental health, resilience, focus, and overall well-being – factors that contribute greatly to effective teaching.

3. Podcast Clubs – Set up or join a podcast club focused on education with fellow teachers. This provides an opportunity to discover new ideas and perspectives while engaging in thought-provoking discussions with peers.

4. Coding Workshops – Advances in technology have made coding skills increasingly essential in today’s educational landscape. Participate in coding workshops or online tutorials during summer breaks to integrate computational thinking into your teaching practice.

5. Create a Teacher Blog or Vlog – Begin blogging or vlogging your teaching experiences and insights as a means of self-reflection, personal growth, and collaboration with other educators online who share similar interests.

6. Service Learning Projects – Lead or participate in service-learning projects within your community. By lending a helping hand and working together with others on a meaningful project, you can expand your personal and professional skills.

7. Cultural Immersion Trips – Traveling to another country offers educators opportunities to explore different teaching practices firsthand while experiencing the culture, history, and language that enrich our global understanding.

8. Volunteer at an Educational Non-Profit – Spend some time volunteering at an educational non-profit organization, where you can bring your teaching expertise and passion while helping to make a difference in the lives of others.

9. Attend a Maker Faire – Visit a Maker Faire to explore cutting-edge technology, meet innovators, and discover hands-on experiences that can be integrated into the classroom.

10. Network at Industry Events – Networking outside the teaching profession enables educators to gather fresh insights and perspectives on leadership, management, and team-building skills that can be applied in their educational practice.

By stepping out of their comfort zone and exploring these unconventional professional development ideas, teachers can gain new skills, knowledge, and experiences that will invigorate their teaching practice and foster personal growth. Happy learning!

1. The art of multitasking

Being a teacher mom means mastering the delicate balance between grading papers, preparing lesson plans, and fulfilling your duties as a parent. It’s not always easy, but it’s something that only teacher moms can fully appreciate and understand.

2. The importance of organized chaos

A teacher’s classroom often looks like organized chaos, and the same principle applies to the home of a teacher’s mom. There’s a method to the madness, and while it might not always look tidy or orderly, rest assured there is organization beneath the surface.

3. Constantly playing dual roles

Teacher moms are constantly walking the tightrope of their two roles—educator and parent. They’re responsible for their student’s well-being in the classroom just as their kids’ happiness at home – and sometimes it’s hard to separate those roles.

4. Emotions running high during parent-teacher conferences

During parent-teacher conferences, teacher moms understand the struggle of separating their emotions as a mom from their professionalism as an educators. Navigating these conversations with parents can be especially challenging when you’re keenly aware of both perspectives.

5. Homework is family time

When you’re both a mom and an educator, homework time often means sitting down with your kids as well as helping your students during after-school hours. This unique multitasking experience gives teacher moms insights into different aspects of learning at home.

6. Knowing that education starts at home

As both an educator and a parent, teacher moms deeply understand the importance of fostering a love for learning in their children from a young age. Reinforcing educational values at every opportunity is something they consider vital to raising well-rounded kids.

7. Double whammy vacation guilt

Teacher moms experience twofold guilt when taking vacations: not only do they feel guilty about leaving behind their students but also their family responsibilities. However, they understand the importance of self-care for their well-being and that of the family.

8. A never-ending supply of stationery

The love for stationery extends from the classroom into the home for teacher moms. The abundance of colorful pens, markers, sticky notes, and other supplies is not only helpful for teaching purposes but also finds its way into everyday household use.

9. “Teacher voice” kicking in at home

Teacher moms sometimes inadvertently use their authoritative “teacher voice” at home, too. While it might help maintain order in the classroom, it can lead to giggles or eye-rolls from their kids at home.

10. Understanding the power of a growth mindset

As experienced educators, teacher moms recognize the importance of fostering a growth mindset in their students as well as in their children. They embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, instilling this invaluable life skill in both groups.

In conclusion, being a teacher mom is a unique experience that brings with it numerous challenges and joys. These 10 aspects are just a glimpse into the daily life and understanding that only those holding both roles can fully appreciate.

Introduction:

Educators hold immense power in shaping the minds and lives of their students. The language we use while teaching can either empower or disempower them. Teachers need to be mindful of the phrases they use, as certain commonly used phrases can have adverse effects on a student’s growth and development. Here are five such toxic phrases to stop using with your students and what you should say instead.

1. Toxic Phrase: “You should know this by now.”

Alternative Phrase: “Let’s review this concept together.”
Telling a student that they should already know something only serves to make them feel ashamed and embarrassed. Instead of expressing frustration, focus on reviewing the material together and identifying areas where they may need more support.

2. Toxic Phrase: “You’re so smart!”

Alternative Phrase: “I can see how hard you’ve worked to understand this.”
While it might seem like positive reinforcement, telling students they are smart can actually promote a fixed mindset – the belief that intelligence is static and cannot be improved upon. Instead, praise their hard work and perseverance to foster a growth mindset.

3. Toxic Phrase: “Stop asking so many questions.”

Alternative Phrase: “I appreciate your curiosity! Let’s explore this further after class.”
Inquiring minds are the cornerstone of learning, so it’s essential to encourage students to ask questions rather than shut down their curiosity. By scheduling time for further discussion, teachers can create opportunities for learning without derailing from the main teaching plan.

4. Toxic Phrase: “This is easy.”

Alternative Phrase: “This might be challenging at first, but you can do it!”
Labeling work as ‘easy’ can unintentionally put pressure on students who may struggle with the concept, causing them to feel discouraged if they don’t catch on right away. Adjust your language to acknowledge that different students will find various topics and tasks challenging, while also expressing your confidence in their ability to overcome those challenges.

5. Toxic Phrase: “You’re just not good at this.”

Alternative Phrase: “With persistence and practice, you can improve your skills in this area.”
It’s crucial to avoid labeling a student as incapable, as it can destroy their motivation and perpetuate a negative self-image. Instead, remind them that improvement is possible through dedication and effort and offer support to help them grow in their abilities.

Conclusion:

The impact of our words cannot be underestimated. By eliminating the use of these toxic phrases and replacing them with empowering alternatives, educators can create a more positive learning environment that fosters growth, understanding, and mutual respect between teacher and student.

Introduction

Teachers are real-life superheroes, molding the minds of future generations. However, not everyone has a chance to look behind the curtain and see what truly goes on in the life of an educator. Through a series of cat GIFs, let’s explore a day in the life of teachers and potentially gain newfound appreciation for their hard work.

1. The Morning Rush


As the sun rises, our teacher hero wakes up and quickly prepares for the day ahead. Much like this cat frantically trying to catch its moving toy, teachers speed through their morning routine to ensure they make it into their classrooms on time.

2. Lesson Planning


Effective lesson planning is crucial for a successful school day, symbolized by this cat strategically navigating through multiple objects. Teachers put great thought into developing stimulating lessons that engage students and cater to their diverse needs.

3. Managing Student Energy


Similar to this playful yet adorable cat constantly chasing after a laser-pointer dot, teachers are masters at managing student energy levels throughout the day – keeping them focused during lessons and allowing them breaks to socialize and move around.

4. Unexpected Interruptions


As this startled cat demonstrates, teachers must be prepared to handle sudden interruptions that disrupt their plan. From announcements and technical issues to unexpected student situations, educators calmly adapt and maintain control over their classroom.

5. Grading Papers and Giving Feedback


Like this diligent cat flipping through pages with its paw, teachers assess student work with care. They review assignments and exams, providing constructive feedback to help each pupil grow and learn.

6. Collaboration with Colleagues


The cooperation between these two cats sitting together represents the collaboration that often exists within school communities. Teachers work together to share best practices, support each other, and create a positive learning environment.

7. At the End of the Day, It’s All Worth It


As we see this content cat resting peacefully, it’s clear that, despite numerous challenges, teachers find great satisfaction in educating and inspiring students. They carry on, knowing that their impact on the lives of young minds is beyond measure.

Conclusion

Through this series of cat GIFs, we’ve captured a glimpse into the life of a teacher. Through their dedication and perseverance, educators make a lasting impact on our future leaders. Let these playful cats serve as a reminder to show gratitude for the incredible work teachers do every day.

As teachers, we’re always on the lookout for fresh and creative solutions to make our lives easier, and one area that often needs improvement is the organization of take-home folders. These folders are crucial in maintaining a connection between school and home, ensuring that students have all the necessary information and materials for their learning journey. In this article, we will explore some innovative ways to organize take home folders in your classroom.

1. Color Coding

Color coding is an easy yet effective way to organize your folders. Assign a different color folder for every subject or student type, such as special education students, and instruct your students to place the corresponding papers into each folder. This system not only helps you maintain the order but also teaches students organization skills.

2. Labeling

Labeling folders with student names can greatly simplify folder management. Utilize a label maker or create customized labels on your computer using fun fonts and themes. If feasible, allow students to personalize their take-home folder labels so they feel more connected to them.

3. Folder Stations

Designate a specific area in your classroom as the “folder station.” Set up bins or crates with dividers labeled by subject or student names where students can retrieve and return their take-home folders daily. This keeps everything in one place, so it’s easier to find when needed.

4. Parent Communication Logs

A crucial aspect of take-home folders is keeping thorough communication between parents and teachers. Include a parent-teacher communication log inside each folder, so both parties can easily document any important updates, questions, or concerns.

5. Motivational Quotes or Stickers

Add motivational quotes, inspirational sayings, or fun stickers on the front of each folder. This serves as a constant reminder for students to stay engaged with their work while also injecting some fun into the process.

6. Responsibility Chart

Incorporate a responsibility chart in your classroom, where students can move their names to indicate the completion of specific tasks, such as turning in their take-home folder. This promotes accountability and helps students learn to be responsible for keeping track of their work.

7. Digital Folders

Embrace the digital age by providing students and parents access to an online folder. This can either replace or complement physical take-home folders, ensuring all parties have immediate access to assignments and resources.

8. Themed Folders

Try using themed folders that correlate with your curriculum or classroom themes. For example, if you’re teaching about ecosystems, use folders with images of rainforests, deserts, and oceans. These themed folders not only look appealing but help ignite students’ interest in the subject matter.

By implementing one or more of these innovative ideas into your classroom organization system, you can improve your take-home folder management and ensure a more streamlined experience for both teachers and students. Happy organizing!