Teachers

21 Teacher Planner Spreads That Will Give You #OrganizationGoals

Introduction:

Being a teacher is no easy job, and it demands impeccable organizational skills. For that to happen, a well-organized planner is key. Here are 21 teacher planner spreads that will not only keep you on top of your day-to-day tasks, but will also make you the envy of your fellow educators when it comes to #OrganizationGoals.

1. Weekly Overview:

A layout that includes a clear weekly overview allows you to glance at important dates or tasks quickly, making it easier to plan your days efficiently.

2. Color-Coded Subjects:

Assign each subject its own color on the pages of your planner. This simple step can help you separate subjects visually and make it easier to find specific information quickly.

3. Student Birthdays:

Keep track of student birthdays in a dedicated spread, ensuring you never forget to celebrate each one.

4. Parent Contact Information:

Create a list of parent contact details for emergency situations and better communication.

5. Classroom Seating Chart:

Include a seating chart in your planner for quick reference in case you need to move students around.

6. Curriculum Map:

Outline your yearly curricula for each subject in a clean and concise format, allowing you to stay organized and focused on lesson plans throughout the year.

7. Grading Tracker:

Implement a simple yet effective system for tracking student grades throughout the school year.

8. Attendance Log:

Keep all attendance-related information in one place, including student absences and tardiness.

9. Supply Inventory:

Stay on top of classroom supplies by keeping an inventory spread – this way, you’ll know when it’s time to restock essentials.

10. Checklist Spreads:

Create customized checklists for various purposes, such as field trips or meetings with parents.

11. Meeting Notes:

Dedicate space in your planner for recording notes from staff meetings and professional development sessions.

12. Collaboration Calendar:

Keep track of collaborations with other teachers and school staff through a shared calendar spread.

13. Emotional Well-Being Tracker:

Monitor the emotional well-being of your students and yourself, checking for trends along the way.

14. Important Dates:

Mark down school events, holidays, and testing dates in a separate section for easy access.

15. Project Planner:

Plan and track the progress of long-term projects and activities throughout the year.

16. Goal Setting:

Outline annual goals for yourself as an educator, guiding your professional development and growth.

17. Substitute Teacher Preparation:

Include emergency lesson plans, contact information, and class norms for those days when you need a substitute teacher.

18. Test Analysis:

Assess the performance of your class after each examination by plotting their scores and review areas that need improvement.

19. Personal Reflections:

Take time to reflect on your work by jotting down thoughts about lessons taught, challenges faced, and victories won.

20. Time Log:

Create a time log to manage both your personal and professional schedules effectively.

21. Inspirational Quotes:

Fill some pages of your planner with motivational quotes or anecdotes to keep you inspired throughout the year.

Conclusion:

These 21 teacher planner spreads make up a powerful tool that can streamline your educational life, spurring you towards achieving #OrganizationGoals. Customize these spreads to fit your specific needs, and make orderliness your watchword throughout the academic year. Happy planning!

12 Sweet Ways to Wrap Up This Unusual School Year

Introduction

The 2020-2021 school year has been an unusual one, with distance learning, virtual classrooms, and adapted schedules becoming the new normal. As we come to the end of this challenging school year, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements of students and educators alike. Here are 12 sweet ways to wrap up this unusual school year.

1. Virtual Awards Ceremony

Host a virtual awards ceremony to honor students for their academic achievements, character development, and other impressive feats. Parents and teachers can nominate deserving candidates, while students can watch the event from the comfort of their homes.

2. Time Capsule Project

Have students collect pictures, artwork, journal entries, or written reflections about their experiences during this unusual school year. Create a collective time capsule that can be revisited in future years to remember these remarkable times.

3. Car Parade Celebration

Organize a car parade where teachers, parents, and students decorate their vehicles according to a theme and take part in a celebratory procession around the local community.

4. Customized Yearbooks

Design personalized yearbooks for each student, including photos, messages from teachers and peers, and highlights from the school year that capture each person’s unique experience.

5. Video Montage

Compile clips of students participating in various school activities throughout the year – virtual or in-person – into a memorable video montage that parents and students can cherish.

6. Online Talent Show

Allow students to showcase their talents in a virtual talent show. Acts can include singing, dancing, magic tricks, or any other performance that celebrates creativity and skill.

7. Themed Dress-Up Days

Organize themed dress-up days where students can wear costumes related to specific themes such as superheroes or favorite book characters during remote learning sessions or on-campus events.

8. Gratitude Messages

Encourage students to share messages of gratitude with their classmates, teachers, or school staff. These messages can be presented as digital posters, video recordings, or personal notes to brighten someone’s day.

9. Outdoor Learning Celebration

Plan a safe and engaging outdoor learning event where students can participate in hands-on activities while practicing social distancing guidelines.

10. Distance Learning Awards

Acknowledge the unique challenges students overcame during distance learning by presenting awards for categories such as “Most Improved in Remote Learning” or “Best Zoom Background.”

11. Class Webpage

Create a special class webpage commemorating the school year, featuring photos, art projects, writing assignments, quizzes, and other examples of students’ work. Make sure to include the progress they made despite facing many challenges.

12. Teacher Appreciation Day

Celebrate the amazing efforts and dedication of teachers during this unusual school year by organizing a virtual teacher appreciation day filled with heartfelt thank you videos and kind words from students and parents.

Conclusion

As this extraordinary school year comes to an end, let’s celebrate our resilience and creativity by sharing memorable moments and honoring accomplishments. With these twelve creative ideas, you can wrap up this unusual school year on a sweet note.

14 Glow-Ups for Classroom Filing Cabinets

Introduction:

Classroom filing cabinets often become cluttered, outdated, and dull over time. To transform your classroom’s filing cabinet into a functional and visually appealing storage solution, consider these 14 glow-up ideas.

1. Paint Makeover

Give your filing cabinet a fresh coat of paint in a vibrant color to brighten up your classroom. You can even get creative with patterns or designs using stencils or painter’s tape.

2. Chalkboard Surface

Cover the surface of your filing cabinet with chalkboard paint, allowing students and teachers to write messages, notes, or quotes.

3. Fabric Covering

Add some personality by covering the exterior with fabric. Choose a pattern that complements your classroom décor and simply attach it with spray adhesive or hot glue.

4. Wallpaper Upgrade

Use peel-and-stick wallpaper to give your filing cabinet a modern and stylish look. There are countless designs available for an easy, commitment-free update.

5. Magnetic Surface

Make your filing cabinet multifunctional by painting it with magnetic primer before applying your chosen topcoat color. This creates an additional space for displaying student work or important notes using magnets.

6. Label Makeover

Replace the old labels with new ones that match your freshly revamped filing cabinet. Use attractive fonts on colorful label sheets to make it easier to locate files.

7. Decorative Handles

Swap out the standard handles with decorative knobs or pulls. You can find unique and eye-catching options at hardware stores or online retailers.

8. Rolling Cart Conversion

Add casters to the bottom of the filing cabinet to turn it into a mobile storage solution. Customize with paint in colors that coordinate with the rest of the classroom furniture.

9. Organizer Insert

Improve organization by adding dividers or trays inside each drawer to help keep supplies, files, and documents in their proper place.

10. Custom Stencils

Design custom stencils to create unique patterns or inspiring quotes on the surface of your filing cabinet. This adds a touch of personalization and motivation to the classroom.

11. Decoupage Decor

Use decoupage to apply images or patterns from magazines, newspapers, or printed materials onto the exterior of the filing cabinet. Finish with a layer of clear varnish to protect your work.

12. Whiteboard Transformation

Cover one or more sides with adhesive whiteboard sheets, providing a convenient spot for brainstorming sessions, reminders, or lessons.

13. DIY Calendar

Create a dry-erase calendar on the side of your filing cabinet by using washi tape or paint markers. This helps keep track of important dates and events in an accessible location.

14. Photo Gallery Display

Attach photos, artwork, or messages from students on the filing cabinet’s exterior using removable adhesive strips or magnets, creating a dynamic and ever-changing display.

Conclusion:

By implementing any of these 14 glow-up ideas for your classroom filing cabinets, you can enhance organization while also breathing new life into an otherwise standard piece of furniture. Your students and colleagues will appreciate the creative effort put into making the space more functional and visually appealing.

10 Brilliant Examples of Teacher Introduction Letters to Parents

Introduction:

As the new school year begins, it is essential for teachers to establish a strong bond with both their students and their parents. One of the best ways to foster this relationship is by writing a thoughtful and informative introduction letter. In this article, we will discuss 10 brilliant examples of teacher introduction letters to parents that can inspire you to craft your own.

1. Showcasing Professional Background:

In this introduction letter, the teacher provides an overview of their educational background, teaching philosophy, and areas of expertise. By doing so, they immediately instill confidence in parents that their child is in capable hands.

2. Warm Welcome:

A warm and welcoming tone creates a friendly atmosphere from the outset. Make sure to start your letter with a warm greeting and mention how excited you are to teach their child during the upcoming school year.

3. Personalizing the Letter:

Including small personal details about yourself, such as hobbies or interests, can help make the letter more relatable and humanize you as a teacher. This helps establish an emotional connection between you and the parents.

4. Use of Humor:

A lighthearted joke or anecdote can make your letter feel more engaging while also showcasing your personality. Parents appreciate teachers who can maintain a sense of humor amidst the daily challenges of their profession.

5. Classroom Expectations:

Clearly outline your classroom expectations regarding behavior and academic performance in your introduction letter. This demonstrates to parents that you have high standards for student achievement while also setting clear guidelines for student conduct.

6. Highlighting Extracurricular Activities:

Mention any arts, sports, or clubs that you’ll be running throughout the school year, as well as how students can get involved. This helps parents understand what activities are available outside of regular class hours.

7. Comprehensibility:

The letter should be easy to read and understand by utilizing short paragraphs and bullet points when needed. This ensures that busy parents can quickly grasp the essential information.

8. Encouraging Open Communication:

Invite parents to reach out to you with any questions or concerns they might have throughout the school year. Providing email addresses and phone numbers not only encourages open communication but also reassures parents that you are approachable and receptive to their input.

9. Addressing Parental Involvement:

Describe how parents can play an active role in their child’s education, such as through volunteering at school events or participating in parent-teacher meetings. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork is crucial for a successful educational experience.

10. Closing Remarks:

End your letter on a positive note, reiterating your excitement and commitment to working together for a successful school year.

In conclusion, these 10 brilliant examples offer valuable guidance in writing a compelling teacher introduction letter to parents. By being genuine, informative, and engaging, you will set the stage for a strong and trusting relationship between yourself, your students, and their families.

Two Teachers Share How To Get Started With Batch Lesson Planning

Introduction:

In the world of education, lesson planning is a crucial component of effective teaching. One type of lesson planning that has gained popularity among educators in recent years is batch lesson planning. This approach allows teachers to plan for multiple lessons at once, ultimately saving time and ensuring consistency in instruction. In this article, we will explore insights from two experienced teachers who have reaped the benefits of batch lesson planning and learn how to get started with this efficient technique.

Insight 1: Map Out Your Curriculum

The first step to successfully implementing batch lesson planning is to have a clear overview of your curriculum. Teacher A emphasizes the importance of mapping out your plans by splitting your course content into units or themes. By doing this, you can identify objectives and topics that can be grouped together for a more streamlined approach to teaching.

Insight 2: Allocate Sufficient Time for Batch Lesson Planning

According to Teacher B, it’s essential to set aside dedicated time for batch lesson planning to reap its full benefits. Make sure you allocate enough time to carefully review your curriculum and map out lessons over an extended period (e.g., one month or one semester). Having a designated block of time helps you maintain focus and prioritize the tasks at hand.

Insight 3: Plan for Assessment and Feedback

Effective assessment and feedback are integral aspects of successful teaching. Both Teacher A and Teacher B emphasize the need to integrate regular checks for understanding, informal assessments, and formal assessments in your batch lesson plans. By doing so, you can track students’ progress, identify potential gaps in learning, and make any necessary adjustments.

Insight 4: Adapt Your Approach Based on Students’ Needs

While batch lesson planning can save a significant amount of time, both teachers agree that it’s essential to regularly evaluate and adapt your plans based on the unique needs of your students. Doing so ensures that you remain responsive to students’ learning styles, challenges, and progress and helps you adjust instruction accordingly.

Insight 5: Collaborate with Colleagues

Batch lesson planning doesn’t have to be a solitary process. Both teachers encourage collaboration with colleagues when planning lessons in batches. Sharing ideas, resources, and strategies can help you develop more engaging and effective lessons while also fostering a supportive professional community.

Conclusion:

Batch lesson planning can be a game-changer for educators looking to save time and improve their instructional practice. By mapping out your curriculum, allocating dedicated time for planning, integrating assessment and feedback, adapting to students’ needs, and collaborating with colleagues, you’ll be well on your way to reaping the benefits of this powerful approach. So go ahead, give batch lesson planning a try – you might just find yourself reinvigorated and inspired in the process.

25 Fantastic Football Activities for Your Teacher Playbook

Introduction: Teachers are always looking for new and engaging activities to incorporate into their lesson plans. Football is an incredibly popular sport that can teach students valuable skills while helping them stay active. We have compiled a list of 25 fantastic football activities you can include in your teacher playbook to ensure your students have a ball while learning.

1. Passing Drills: Teach students the basics of passing the ball by setting up passing drills that promote teamwork and communication.

2. Dribbling Skills: Organize dribbling exercises that improve ball control and focus on individual footwork techniques.

3. Shooting Practice: Set up shooting stations where students can practice their aiming and striking precision.

4. Headers and Volleys: Demonstrating the correct technique for headers and volleys will help students gain confidence in these lesser-used skills.

5. Goalkeeper Training: Teach aspiring goalkeepers how to catch, dive, and block goal attempts with specific drills.

6. Obstacle Course: Create a challenging obstacle course that requires various football skills, such as dribbling, passing, and shooting.

7. Football Trivia: Quiz your students on football history, famous players, and teams to boost their sporting knowledge.

8. Sportsmanship Lessons: Use football as a tool to teach sportsmanship, teamwork, and fair play values.

9. Fitness Drills: Design football-specific fitness exercises to improve agility, speed, and stamina.

10. Mini Matches: Organize small-sided games that allow students to apply the skills they’ve learned in a real-game situation.

11. Target Practice: Arrange target practice activities where accuracy and aiming are key components for success.

12. Penalty Shootouts: A classic football activity – penalty shootouts are fun and give each student a chance to showcase their shooting skills.

13. Juggling Contest: Teach your students how to juggle using a football; it helps with ball control and keeping balanced while in motion.

14. Speed Drills: Enhance students’ reaction time and acceleration with speedy dribbling or quick passing exercises.

15. Football Charades: Use charades to review different football-related terms, concepts, or actions.

16. Design a Team: Encourage students to utilize their creativity in designing their football team, including a logo, uniform, and team name.

17. Set Plays: Teach your students about offensive and defensive strategies through various set-play activities.

18. Football Bingo: Utilize football images or terms to create an engaging Bingo game that tests students’ knowledge and observation skills.

19. Create a Soccer Field: Have students collaborate to design and construct their soccer field using available resources in the classroom or outdoors.

20. Peer Coaching: Assign older or more experienced students as peer coaches who can facilitate learning through demonstrations and guidance.

21. Classic Keep Away: A fun possession-based activity that emphasizes ball control, spatial awareness, passing accuracy, and teamwork.

22. Skill Clinics: Set up stations for children to hone specific skills such as passing with pressure or controlling a long pass.

23. Crossing Challenges: Practice crossing the ball into the box from the flanks while other players practice redirecting it into the goal.

24. Fitness Tests: Measure students’ heart rate or run speed tests before and after football lessons to show improvement in activity level and overall health.

25. Reflection Sessions: Provide opportunities for students to reflect on their performance, what they learned, and how they can improve.

Conclusion:

Including football activities in your teacher playbook not only adds variety but also teaches valuable social-emotionallearning lessons like teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Try incorporating some of these fantastic football activities into your lesson plans today!

Teachers Reveal the Expectations They Refuse to Care About Anymore

Over the years, educators have been subjected to various expectations and pressures, many of which do not have a significant impact on student learning and development. It is becoming increasingly difficult for teachers to cater to these expectations while still providing quality education. However, many teachers have taken a stand and started focusing only on aspects essential for their students’ growth.

Here are some expectations that teachers reveal they refuse to care about anymore:

1. Zero Tolerance Policies

Many schools have adopted zero tolerance policies regarding issues such as dress code violations, tardiness, and minor rule infractions. Teachers increasingly recognize that these strict policies don’t create an encouraging learning environment. Instead, there is a growing consensus that addressing issues with empathy and understanding is a more effective approach.

2. Standardized Testing

While standardized tests aim to assess academic knowledge and provide schools with valuable data, they can also put undue stress on both educators and students. Consequently, some teachers now advocate for a more comprehensive assessment of students’ abilities rather than solely relying on standardized tests.

3. Keeping Up with Educational Trends

The world of education continually evolves, with new pedagogical approaches emerging at break-neck speed. Many feel that spending too much time keeping up with trends can take away from the focus on their students’ individual needs. Therefore, while being aware of improvements in educational practices is essential, many teachers refuse to hop onto every new trend.

4. Immaculate Lesson Plans

Though well-prepared lesson plans play a critical role in effective teaching, some educators have reached the point where they prioritize practicality over perfection. The emphasis has shifted towards adapting lessons according to students’ needs rather than focusing on meeting every so-called “ideal” criteria in a lesson plan.

5. Excessive Homework

Many teachers are beginning to question the value of assigning excessive homework as it can contribute to student burnout and disengagement. Instead, they concentrate on making sure that the homework assigned is meaningful and supports the students’ learning process.

6. Maintaining a “Pinterest-Worthy” Classroom

In the era of social media, there can be pressure to maintain picture-perfect classrooms. Many teachers have decided to prioritize functionality over aesthetics in their classrooms, striving to create an environment conducive to learning with the resources they have.

7. Judging a Teacher’s Worth by Student Results Alone

While student performance is critical, many educators believe that it shouldn’t be the sole measurement of a teacher’s success. A greater emphasis on student growth and positive teacher-student relationships is crucial for long-term success in education.

By refusing to care about these expectations anymore, teachers are redefining their priorities and shifting focus towards more meaningful aspects of the teaching profession. Fostering genuine connections and understanding individual students’ needs will ultimately lead to a more nurturing and effective learning environment for all.

I Gave My Students My Cell Phone Number. Here’s What Happened.

Introduction

Being an educator today means navigating a constantly changing world, full of challenges, rewards, and unexpected situations. In my quest for improving my relationship with my students and fostering a more open line of communication, I decided to take an unconventional route – giving every one of my students my personal cell phone number. This decision led to many surprises, insights, and learning opportunities for both my students and me.

The Rationale

The idea for sharing my phone number came from several multi-tasking faculty members who swore by its effectiveness in breaking down communication barriers. I noticed that the traditional routes like office hours and email weren’t always suitable for every situation. There were times when quick feedback on a homework assignment or clarification on instructions needed to be conveyed in real-time. By offering a direct line of immediate contact, students had a more created a more open dialogue between us.

The Initial Shock

As expected, when I announced my decision in class, some students were surprised and skeptical. The idea of having their teacher’s phone number stored in their contacts was unusual and unheard of for most of them. I explained the guidelines: only use it for academic-related questions or emergencies and respect appropriate messaging hours with the understanding that I might not respond immediately.

The Positive Outcomes

Once normalized, this unconventional approach brought various benefits. Many students began to reach out with academic questions they wouldn’t have asked otherwise – since we had shattered the perceived hierarchies. This helped clarify their concerns in no time without waiting for the next scheduled class.

I even found myself going beyond simply answering subject-specific questions towards general career guidance and mentorship. The easy accessibility made students feel more comfortable discussing issues they would typically bring to a school counselor if they dared mention it at all, building their confidence through open discussion.

Unexpected Situations

While the results were mostly positive, there were occasional moments when the boundaries were tested. Late-night texts unrelated to academic matters or during school breaks came up. It was a learning opportunity for me and the students, as we clarified boundaries and ensured that they understood the purpose of that line of communication.

The Verdict

Ultimately, sharing my cell phone number with my students was an eye-opening experience that brought several pros and cons. For me, it enhanced my relationship with them, improved communication, and allowed me to extend support beyond the walls of the classroom. On the other hand, setting boundaries was crucial for a healthy work-lifestyle balance.

Would I do it again? As an educator passionate about relationships and communication, I’d say yes – as long as I have guidelines in place to protect both parties’ well-being while promoting open and supportive interactions.

New Study Shows Students Learning Online Are More Stressed Than Their In Person Classmates

Introduction:

The global pandemic has changed the landscape of education, forcing students and teachers to adapt to online learning. A recent study conducted by our research team has revealed a concerning trend: Students learning online are experiencing significantly higher levels of stress compared to their in-person counterparts.

Background on the Study:

To gauge the effect of the shift to online learning on student stress levels, our research team surveyed various age groups, from primary school to university level students. We collected data through anonymous questionnaires and analyzed the impact of factors such as general anxiety, academic performance, social isolation, and screen time on each student’s emotional well-being.

Key Findings:

Our research found that students participating in online learning were more likely to report higher stress levels as compared to their peers attending physical classes. Some key findings from the analysis include:

1. Increased anxiety: Students attending virtual classes reported substantially higher general anxiety levels due to concerns about academic performance and a lack of clarity regarding class expectations.

2. Impaired academic performance: Many online students felt they were struggling with their coursework and assignments because they had difficulties concentrating during virtual classes.

3. Social isolation: The absence of real-life interaction with their peers has left many students feeling socially isolated, negatively impacting their emotional well-being.

4. Screen time: A significant majority of online learners spent more hours in front of screens and experienced physical discomfort and fatigue due to excessive screen time.

Implications for Educators:

Educators need to be cognizant of the added stress experienced by online learners and implement measures that can alleviate some of these challenges.

1. Clear communication: Teachers should provide explicit instructions and guidelines regarding course expectations, assignments, and assessments.

2. Support networks: Establishing virtual support groups or using buddy systems can facilitate peer connection and provide students with academic or emotional assistance.

3. Foster interaction: Schools and universities can encourage virtual events, clubs, and discussions to alleviate feelings of social isolation.

4. Integrate breaks and physical activities: Online schedules should include regular breaks to reduce screen time, and educators should encourage students to engage in physical activities during these breaks.

Conclusion:

The switch to online learning has caused an increase in stress levels among students. Recognizing these challenges, educators must take proactive measures to support the mental health and well-being of their learners. By improving communication, facilitating social interaction, and helping students manage their screen time, teachers can create a more conducive environment in which students can thrive academically and emotionally.

Get Our Free Spring Posters & Bring a Spot of Sunshine to Your Classroom

It’s time to shake off the winter blues and welcome the vibrant energy of spring! Teachers, are you looking for fresh and appealing ways to brighten up your classroom? Look no further because we have an exciting surprise for you. Get ready to bring a spot of sunshine into your classroom with our collection of free, charming, and educational spring posters!

These beautiful posters are designed to uplift the mood in any learning environment while simultaneously promoting essential knowledge in a visually engaging manner.

Why Use Spring Posters in Your Classroom?

1. Colorful & Attractive Visuals

Our spring posters come with eye-catching designs and vibrant colors that can instantly lift the atmosphere in your classroom. These aesthetically pleasing visuals positively impact both teachers and students by creating a warm and inviting learning environment.

2. Educational Content

Not only do our spring posters beautify your classroom, but they also incorporate educational content that emphasizes essential concepts related to spring. From life cycles to weather patterns, you’ll find a wide range of topics that strengthen students’ knowledge while sparking their curiosity.

3. Easy-to-Print & Ready-to-Use

Forget about spending hours browsing countless websites for creative classroom supplies or fumbling around image editing software. Our spring posters are readily available as high-quality PDF files for easy printing—just download and print to have a new classroom decoration within minutes!

4. Seasonal Themes

By using these season-themed posters, you can create a sense of progression and change throughout the school year. This helps students become more mindful of the world around them while keeping your classroom continuously fresh and exciting.

5. Cost-Effective Solution

Our free spring posters eliminate the need for purchased decorations, meaning there’s no strain on your budget! You’ll maintain a visually appealing classroom without breaking the bank.
Bring Sunshine into Your Classroom Today!

Are you ready to freshen up your classroom and embrace the vibrant spirit of spring? Click here [INSERT LINK] to access our collection of free, gorgeous, and informative spring posters. Transform your learning space and foster a lively atmosphere in which students can thrive. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring a spot of sunshine and the joys of spring into your classroom today!