In the Classroom

There’s no denying that standardized testing has become a cornerstone of the education system in the United States. Since the implementation of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) in 2002, standardized tests have been used as a key metric to evaluate not only student performance but also the effectiveness of teachers and entire school … Read more

The cell phone debate has been raging in schools for the better part of the last decade, if not longer. There are multiple different lenses to this argument, and lately, the idea of a cell phone ban has been put into play in some schools. What is the correct answer? Is there one? One side … Read more

I read a very interesting comment the other day that discussed what is considered new generational wealth. Traditionally, we know that generational wealth is monetary and passed down through families. However, the concept of new generational wealth is all about breaking toxic cycles in life. Concepts like financial literacy, mental health, and core family values … Read more

A student-centered classroom is an educational approach that places students at the center of the learning experience. Unlike the traditional teacher-centered approach, where the teacher is the primary source of knowledge and students are passive recipients, a student-centered learning environment encourages students to take an active role in their education. This shift is particularly beneficial … Read more

Creating effective classroom expectations and fostering mutual respect between teachers and students are foundational elements for achieving a successful school year. This approach is essential for building a classroom community that supports student success and promotes a positive learning environment. Establishing clear and consistent expectations not only helps in managing classroom behavior but also creates … Read more

In recent years, there has been a growing body of research highlighting the benefits of student-centered learning in various classroom settings. This instructional approach has proven to be a powerful tool for engaging students, helping them achieve their own learning goals more effectively. While teacher-centered methods can be effective in certain contexts, the long-term success … Read more

Engaging students effectively is a dynamic and vital aspect of teaching. As we move further into the 21st century, understanding how to capture and maintain students’ attention becomes even more important, especially with the distractions that modern technology and media bring. Here are some practical, effective strategies for getting students’ attention that are tailored for … Read more

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, teachers are constantly seeking innovative methods to enhance student engagement and cater to diverse learning styles. One such method gaining popularity is the use of choice boards. These instructional tools provide students with a range of activities to choose from, allowing them to demonstrate their understanding of a subject in … Read more

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) into the classroom has become crucial. Strawbees offers an innovative approach to hands-on learning, enabling students to develop essential skills through engaging, interactive projects. Here’s a comprehensive guide to all the ins and outs of the Strawbees program, designed to empower teachers … Read more

These days, those in education are constantly searching for tips for teachers to motivate students. The impact of COVID-19 hit our classrooms hard, and as we forge ahead while simultaneously addressing past challenges, it can feel incredibly difficult. To help motivate students, there are foundational strategies that any teacher can implement, regardless of grade level. … Read more