Teachers Making a Difference Volume 2 Issue 2 February 2024 Awareness

TEACHERS Making a difference

Volume 2 Issue 2: Awareness Cultivating Understanding: A Guide for Educators on Embracing Black History Month

Love Knows No Limits: Awareness Inclusive Valentine’s Day Bash!

The magazine by teachers for teachers February 2024

Guardians of Our Students Identifying Signs of Grooming in Our Colleagues 1 Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024

Editor’s Letter

by Dr Cathy Coker

SelfAwareness Be Your Own Valentine This month’s message from me, a 45-year educator, to any teacher that is struggling with the question, “Am I doing enough to meet my student’s needs?” should step back a bit and ask yourself, “Am I meeting my own needs first?”

Teachers, I’ve seen programs come and go and I’ve never been so stressed and anxious for Fridays to come until now. You and I are not alone.

We are constantly being told that we are not doing enough to get our students’ growth rates up. I’ve seen and heard at my own school that our own administration is getting upset and raising their voices at their faculty demoralizing them to the point that all they want to do is get through that day. Why? Why is the administration doing this? I’ve also seen and heard at my own school that our administration says that we have no idea what they go through when they attend their administration meetings.

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Teachers, we can’t control what our student’s parents do or do not do when they get home. It’s a constant struggle to get the students to get to school. Let’s look at these issues that keep our students from attending school, the crazy weather, the viruses that COVID brought us, and our unstable economy. Parents must move to be able to provide for their family, so we do get that child that has missed some very important instruction from this transition as well as being at home to get over their illness, and the usual family issues that affect them from attending school regularly.

With all this working against you as you implement every known strategy to get the kids to attend school to keep attendance up, to improve the student growth rate and to keep admin and the higher ups happy, that’s a lot of stress. This will eventually show up in your body, work, and at home.

You cannot help anyone if you are ignoring the sleepless nights that show your bags under your eyes. Just this last Friday 1-26-24 my peers at lunch asked what’s wrong with me when I walked into the teacher’s lunchroom. I didn’t realize that my stress was showing up from under the makeup I was wearing to cover it. They said, “What’s wrong with you? You are not your chirpy self.” I said, “I’m okay, “which was a big lie because for the last two weeks we’ve had to do our Middle of the year Reading and Math Progress Tests which interfered with the annual GT tests that threw a wrench into my own testing schedule making me a couple of days late to complete my exams.

I was yelled at by the now Teacher of the Year GT teacher because she needed to test my kids and pulled them out so that she could complete her work. That was not very Teacher of the Year professional like conduct.

I didn’t say a word to any of our administrators because I knew that I would not get help or consolation for what she did. So, I did what I had to do to get through to Friday. I did all my work and took care of me first. I took note on how this woman acts under stress and I now know that next time I will avoid her at all costs if possible. What she is going through is not my problem or my fault. So, if you see your fellow colleagues going through their stress just try to stay one step ahead of all that needs to be done. Use your intuition as much as possible. Do what you need to do and let other things and situations take care of themselves.

We are now approaching February and only four more months to go for this year.

So, as I am writing this on Saturday 1-27-24 I am happy that I am home and can relax with my family and try to forgive and forget the week. I have next week to think about but for now I am taking care of myself and when I get back on Monday, I will try to stay ahead of myself and do the best I can with the students I have at the time.

We can make a difference with who and what we have at this time, which I believe will make an impact, either in the world or in theirs.

Aristotle is credited with stating, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” This is especially important, as our capacity to educate others often exists in direct proportion to how well we understand and address our own needs. Be your Valentine and take care of your own needs one day at a time. Your Editor and an Educator is in this with you today!

Happy Valentines Day!

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CONTENTS Published by: C&P Educational Consultants Editors: Dr. Cathy Coker Rivette Pena Designers: Rivette Pena Stephane Bowker Contributing Photographers and Stock Libraries: Adobe Stock Unsplash Andy Dominguez Creative Fabrica Advertisements: Dr. Cathy Coker Marketting: Rivette Pena

18 Guardians of Our Students Identifying Signs of Grooming in Our Colleagues

20 Freedom of Choice Bridge Part 1

26 Love Knows No Limits: A Guide to an Awareness Inclusive Valentine’s Day Bash!

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Thank you to Stephane Bowker at Working Dog Resources for providing tailored training for the layout The Art of Giving of Teachers Making a Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024 4 Difference.

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Editors Letter

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Cultivating Understanding:

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Black History Month Printables

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A Guide for Educators on Embracing Black History Month with Sensitivity and Depth

Experience Luxurious Glamping at its Finest Pursuing Your Dream The Pathway to Success and Fulfillment Brown Baggin’ It

Building Morale at School

Anxious Andy has a Secret Admirer Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024

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Cultivating Understanding: A Guide for Educators on Embracing Black History Month with Sensitivity and Depth Imagine a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, triumph, and cultural richness—a tapestry that comes to life every February as we celebrate Black History Month. This month holds profound significance, serving as a time to honor the legacy,

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contributions, and struggles of African Americans throughout history. For educators, embracing Black History Month is an opportunity to foster inclusivity, understanding, and respect among students from diverse cultural backgrounds.

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To start this journey, consider weaving the narrative of Black history seamlessly into your curriculum, ensuring that it intertwines with the broader cultural fabric of your classroom. One way to achieve this is by incorporating diverse perspectives and narratives into everyday lessons.

Showcase literature, historical accounts, and achievements from the African diaspora, creating a holistic view of Black history that extends beyond the confines of a single month.

For instance, [Teaching Tolerance](https://www. tolerance.org/classroom-resources) offers a wealth of resources to help integrate diverse perspectives into your lessons, providing materials that highlight the often overlooked aspects of Black history.

As you navigate this educational odyssey, it’s crucial to celebrate the multifaceted contributions of Black individuals across various fields. Explore the realms of science, technology, arts, sports, and politics. Introduce your students to trailblazers who have left an indelible mark on history, inspiring them to dream big and reach for the stars.

Encourage a sense of pride and curiosity about the rich tapestry of Black achievements.

You can find lesson plans and activities on [Scholastic’s Black History Month](https://www. scholastic.com/teachers/collections/teachingcontent/black-history-month/) page, offering a diverse range of resources to make Black history come alive in your classroom.

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For an interactive and engaging experience, design lesson plans that are inclusive and culturally responsive. Use a variety of teaching methods to capture the attention and interest of students from different backgrounds. Consider incorporating multimedia resources, guest speakers, and real-life stories that bring the lessons to life. The goal is to create an immersive and dynamic learning environment where every student feels seen, valued, and connected to the narratives being shared.

[NEA’s Read Across America](https://www.nea. org/readacross) provides lesson plans, activities, and book recommendations that incorporate diverse perspectives, ensuring an inclusive and engaging learning experience.

Delve into the cultural vibrancy of Black history beyond the confines of historical achievements.

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Embrace and honor contemporary contributions, cultural events, and traditions that shape the tapestry of Black heritage today. From music and dance to art and literature, celebrate the living legacy of Black culture in all its richness and diversity.

A powerful way to make Black History Month meaningful for students is to provide them with opportunities for personal exploration and expression. Encourage research projects, presentations, and discussions that allow students to delve deeper into various aspects of Black history and culture. Foster an environment where curiosity is rewarded, questions are welcomed, and learning is a collaborative journey.

Guest speakers can add a unique dimension to the celebration, bringing authentic voices and personal experiences into the classroom.

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Finally, use this month as a springboard for discussions about social justice. Explore the historical context of social movements and activism, connecting past struggles to presentday efforts for equality and justice. Encourage your students to critically examine the intersections of history, race, and societal progress, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.

Consider inviting individuals from the local Black community, historians, or activists to share their insights. This firsthand perspective can provide students with a more nuanced understanding of Black history and contemporary issues.

As you navigate the landscape of Black History Month, be mindful of the language and terminology used. Ensure that your discussions and lessons are framed with respect and sensitivity. Consider using inclusive language that acknowledges the diverse experiences within the African American community, fostering a climate of understanding and appreciation.

[GLSEN’s Inclusive Language Guide](https://www. glsen.org/activity/inclusive-language-guide) can serve as a valuable resource to guide discussions on language and terminology, promoting an inclusive and respectful classroom environment.

In celebrating Black History Month, educators have the opportunity to cultivate a learning environment that transcends cultural boundaries.

It’s a chance to honor the richness of Black history while fostering inclusivity, understanding, and respect among students of all backgrounds. By weaving the stories of resilience, achievement, and cultural heritage into the educational tapestry, we contribute to a more enlightened and interconnected future for all.

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Black History Month Book Marks

Martin Luther King Jr

Rosa Parks

Nelson Mandela

Harriet Tubman

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Guardians of Our Students Identifying Signs of Grooming in Our Colleagues

By Rivette Pena As teachers, we wear many hats, with roles ranging from mentors to protectors. Amidst our responsibilities, the safety and well-being of our students must remain paramount. In light of the prevalent media portrayal of romanticizing teacher-student relationships, we find ourselves addressing a concerning issue: the practice of ‘grooming.’

signs of grooming is crucial in safeguarding our students. Let’s delve into this sensitive topic and discuss the red flags educators should be aware of in their colleagues.

Signs of Grooming: A Call for Vigilance

The Teacher Wants to Spend Unauthorized Time Alone: It is normal for teachers to prioritize students, offering extra support through tutoring Grooming occurs when an authoritative figure or group activities. However, caution is warranted if builds trust with a child, only to exploit or abuse a teacher invites a student to spend unsanctioned them physically, emotionally, and psychologically.

Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024 18 While most teachers are incredible mentors, a few time alone outside of school for no valid reason. outliers may harbor dark motives. Recognizing the This one-on-one interaction in external settings

can create opportunities for predatory behavior.

Transparency is key; if students are to spend time alone with a teacher outside the classroom, parents or friends should be informed.

The Teacher Keeps Giving Unnecessary Special Treatment: Fair treatment is the foundation of ethical teaching. Beware if a teacher offers unnecessary gifts, provides unwarranted special treatment, or makes inappropriate comments without a particular reason. Such preferential treatment can lead to a power imbalance, making students vulnerable to exploitation.

The Teacher Is a Little Too Nosy: If a teacher becomes overly inquisitive about a student’s personal life, it may be a sign of grooming.

Extracting information on family background, friendships, and daily routines can be a predator’s way of attempting to gain leverage over a student. While confiding in a teacher can be healthy, excessive interest in a student’s life raises concerns.

The Teacher Is Oddly Secretive About Interactions: Red flags should be raised if a teacher wants to keep conversations secretive, especially on unofficial social media platforms.

This behavior aims to erase evidence from school platforms and isolate the student, creating a manipulated sense of a special relationship. If students feel uncomfortable, reaching out to family members or friends is crucial.

Understanding the Motivation: Seeking Power and Validation The motivation behind teacher-student abuse is rooted in a desire for power. During the grooming process, predators feel powerful and adored, seeking validation through inappropriate relationships. Many perpetrators lack empathy and may have unresolved emotional issues, using their position for a sense of control.

Taking Action: A Collective Responsibility If students or educators suspect grooming, it is imperative to reach out to the school’s guidance counselor or safe spaces arm immediately.

Reporting suspicions is crucial to ensure the safety of all students. Hotlines such as 163, the Bantay Bata helpline, can provide assistance.

Embracing Our Role as Guardians

Real-Life Examples and Warning Signs: Learning from ‘A Teacher’ The FX limited series, “A Teacher,” though fictional, mirrors real cases of teacher-student abuse, shedding light on the grooming process.

The show underscores warning signs, including victim selection, gaining access and isolating the victim, trust development and keeping secrets, desensitization to touch, and attempts to make the behavior seem natural.

Long-Term Effects on Victims: Understanding the Impact Forensic psychologist Dr. Alice Berkowitz emphasizes the long-lasting effects of teacher-

student abuse. The grooming process, which can last between a month to a year, precedes any sexual abuse. Victims may experience depression, self-injury, attempts of suicide, and long-term effects such as self-medication with drugs and alcohol, hyper-sexualization, and difficulty forming attachments.

In conclusion, as educators, we must embrace our added roles as guardians, recognizing signs of grooming to protect our students. By staying vigilant, maintaining transparency, and fostering a safe learning environment, we contribute to the well-being and safety of those entrusted to our care.

Remember, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that every student feels safe and secure.

None should resist the plea that we unite to increase our concern for the welfare and future of our children— the rising generation.-Dallin H. Oaks

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Created by: Paul Ruez, M.Ed. Decision Making Instructions: 1. Have students take a photo of this graphic and keep it for quick viewing on their cells, desktops, notebooks, art work, bracelets, etc. You can then help them use it at any time – like a CPR machine.

2. Ask me for the banner art for this graphic -ormake your own LARGE banner for your classroom.

Make and post more than one and display in visually obvious locations.

3. As needed or scheduled, use the Pause Button* metaphor and Pause the class and walk them through the Stimulus Response process. A. Identify the Stimulus B. Look down from the Freedom of Choice Bridge AND List the possible Behavior Choices. For maximum impact, add engagement by you and or students acting (pantomime) this out. C. List possible Responses which meet behavior Choices (standards).

Learning to use this Decision Making tool is a fundamental life and workplace skill. Know what a Stimulus is and what a Response is. Work this like teaching and learning any key vocabulary words.

Your Freedom of Choice Bridge is a symbol of a pause button where you stop before responding to the stimulus. You then look down from the bridge and see your possible options or choices. Taking time to see and consider these choices or options gives you the freedom to take control of your life as opposed to just reacting (knee jerk) to the many stimuli we all hit each day.

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Teacher Notes: To use this Decision Making / Personal Responsibility tool add more table rows and columns in Google Docs. Have students follow the instructions and add their comments in the boxes.

Check manually, team check and or convert to a Google Form and use it as a fill-in-the-blanks form that the students turn in for you to check.

Find a graphic of a *Pause Button and use it to walk the students through the process. Hand it to a student you want to help consider different behavior choices. Then ask, “would you be willing to press the Pause Button and instead of screaming and yelling, take a walk across the Stimulus Response Freedom of Choice Bridge to see your other behavior choices?”

Google or Amazon and get an actual oversize remote with a big pause button. And or have your wood shop make a remote out of thin board or foam with a big pause button.

Get Part 2. Contact the author, Paul Ruez, M.Ed. at Ruezart@gmail.com to share the full Stimulus Response Google Drive Folder. Please send me questions and suggestions as they pop up.

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Ruezrt@gmail.com

Pursuing Your Dream The Pathway to Success and Fulfillment

by Santosh Kumar

Dreams, the seeds of passion that reside within each of us, have the power to ignite our souls and propel us towards greatness. If you have a dream that drives you, fuels your thoughts, and brings immense joy to your heart, then you have found a purpose worth living for. This article explores the journey of following your passion, becoming a master in your field, and ultimately achieving success in a world brimming with competition.

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1. Passion: The Driving Force:

2. Thinking and Living Your Dream:

Passion is the key ingredient that sets successful individuals apart from the rest. When you have a dream that you are truly passionate about, it becomes more than just a fleeting desire – it becomes a burning flame that lights up your life.

You find yourself dedicated and committed to making it a reality, no matter the obstacles that come your way.

A dream that captures your heart and mind stays with you, no matter the time of day. You find yourself daydreaming about it, pondering new ideas and strategies to make it come to life. It becomes a part of your everyday existence, driving your actions and decisions.

Example: Consider a budding musician who spends every spare moment practicing and honing their craft. Their passion for music fuels them to push beyond their limits, constantly seeking ways to improve and grow.

Example: An aspiring writer continuously imagines different storylines, characters, and settings, even during mundane tasks. Their dream of becoming a published author influences their writing style, leading to unique and captivating stories.

3. Becoming a Master in Your Passion: Passion and dedication go hand in hand with mastery. As you devote yourself to your dream, you acquire invaluable skills and knowledge. The

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journey of learning and growing becomes an integral part of your pursuit, leading to expertise in your chosen field.

Example: A talented dancer practices tirelessly, refining their technique, understanding musicality, and exploring various dance styles. Over time, they become a master of their art, effortlessly captivating audiences with their performances.

4. Making a Living from Your Passion: While passion brings immense happiness, turning your passion into a viable livelihood takes it to the next level. If you can find a way to make a living doing what you love, it not only sustains you financially but also fulfills your soul.

Example: A nature enthusiast with a passion for photography starts a successful wildlife photography business. Every day, they get paid to capture breathtaking images of wildlife while being immersed in the beauty of nature.

5. Unyielding Determination and Unbeatable Resilience: Following your dream does not guarantee a smooth journey. There will be setbacks, failures, and obstacles. However, the passion that drives you keeps you resilient, and you rise above challenges with unyielding determination.

Example: An entrepreneur with a dream of revolutionizing sustainable energy faces obstacles and rejections. Despite the setbacks, their passion for a greener world keeps them going until they successfully launch their groundbreaking technology.

In a world where competition is fierce, success often comes to those who pursue their dreams with passion and dedication. When your dream becomes an integral part of your life, you gain the power to overcome hurdles and stand out in your chosen domain. Remember, it’s never too late to embrace your passion and pursue your dream.

With the right mindset, unwavering determination, and a love for what you do, success and fulfillment are well within your reach. So, go forth fearlessly, for your dreams hold the key to unlocking your true potential in this journey called life.

Hello, I'm Santosh Kumar, a versatile writer and passionate educator, weaving stories and knowledge across diverse subjects. Let's connect on LinkedInhttps://www. linkedin.com/in/santosh-kumar46b782200 as we embark on a shared adventure through the pages of my newly written book. 📚✨ !!

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Dreams Don’t Work Unless you do

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Love Knows No Limits: A Guide to an Awareness Inclusive Valentine’s Day Bash!

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Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024

Hey there, marvelous educators! As we gear up for Cupid’s annual arrow extravaganza, I’m here to share some fabulous ideas on how to make this St. Valentine’s Day the most awareness-inclusive bash our classrooms have ever seen. Let’s dive into a world where love knows no limits and where our celebrations are as diverse as the colors in the crayon box!

Activity: Time to unleash our inner craftivists!

We’re making DIY projects that scream inclusivity.

Friendship bracelets, art projects, and maybe even a love potion (just kidding, we’ll stick to the nonmagical kind).

1. Broaden the Definition of Love: Love’s Grand Spectrum

Link: [Global Storybook](https://globalstorybook. org/)

Link: [Teaching Tolerance Love and Diversity] (https://www.tolerance.org/classroomresources)

Activity: Get ready for a literary world tour! Our stories will span the globe, featuring diverse tales of love that’ll make our hearts do the chachacha.

Activity: Buckle up, because we’re exploring love in all its glorious forms! From friendship fist bumps to self-love high-fives, let’s make sure every kind of love is celebrated.

7. Respect Privacy: Creating a Respectful Environment

6. Storytelling with Diversity: Stories of Love from Around the World

2. Focus on Universal Themes: Kindness and Compassion Day

Link: [Teaching Tolerance Creating LGBTQInclusive Schools](https://www.tolerance.org/ lgbtbestpractices) Activity: Let’s master the art of respecting privacy, like lovey-dovey secret agents! No singling out, no prying – just a whole lot of love and understanding.

Link: [Random Acts of Kindness Foundation] (https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/) Activity: Move over, lovey-dovey clichés! We’re transforming our celebration into a Kindness and Compassion Day. Get ready for the love revolution – one random act at a time!

8. Classroom Norms Discussion: Our Inclusive Classroom

3. Diverse Representation in Visuals: Bulletin Board Idea: Love Comes in Many Forms

Link: [Facing History and Ourselves Creating an Inclusive Classroom](https://www.facinghistory.org/)

Cue the confetti! Our bulletin board is going to be a visual fiesta showcasing all kinds of love. Think of it as a rainbow of affection – because love knows no color restrictions!

Activity: Time to set some classroom norms that scream Inclusivity Rocks! We’ll make sure everyone’s experiences are recognized, cherished, and maybe even given a gold star – because why not?

4. Inclusive Language: Words Matter: Love Edition

There you have it, my fellow Cupid enthusiasts!

With these whimsical ideas, we’re ready to turn our Valentine’s Day celebration into a dazzling extravaganza of love that knows no limits. So, grab your glitter, spread those rainbow-colored wings, and let’s make this St. Valentine’s Day the most awareness-inclusive bash in classroom history. Love is in the air, and it smells like acceptance, kindness, and maybe a hint of chocolate! Happy Valentine’s Day!

Link: [GLSEN Inclusive Language Guide](https:// www.glsen.org/activity/inclusivelanguageguide) Activity: Grab your metaphorical love dictionary!

We’re exploring words that make everyone feel warm and fuzzy inside. Spoiler alert: inclusive language is our secret weapon.

5. DIY Activities for All: Crafting Love for Everyone Link: [Education.com Valentine’s Day Crafts] (https://www.education.com/activity/valentines/)

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Brown Bagging It

Hamburger Stew INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef 1 medium onion chopped 2 cloves garlic minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried parsley 1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves 4 carrots peeled and chopped

2 russet potatoes peeled and cut in small cubes 1 14.5 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes 1 1/4 cup low sodium beef broth 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2/3 cup frozen peas salt and pepper to taste

Directions 1. In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot over medium heat, brown the ground beef. When it is about halfway through the browning process, add the onion and cook until the onion is soft and the ground beef is browned, approximately 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

2. Reduce heat to low. Add garlic, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add the potatoes, carrots, and fire-roasted tomatoes.

3. In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth and tomato paste. Stir it into the pot.

Simmer covered for 15 minutes.

4. Add the peas and simmer covered until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Enjoy!

Credit:https://www.smalltownwoman.com/easy-hamburger-stew/#recipe

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Building Morale at School

By Dr. Cathy Coker Here are some proven school morale builders that you can do at school. At our school a third-grade teacher started hiding mini plastic ducks around the school. An award is given to the teacher that finds the most ducks at the end of every nine weeks. The third-grade teachers have fun hiding them in the restroom, teacher’s lounge, front office, and even in the storage closets. We’ve gone from finding mini ducks with sunglasses for the first nine weeks to ducks dressed in scarves for the second nine weeks and for our third nine weeks because it’s so cold they started to hide penguins.

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This activity has been great, and it has helped us stay connected with each other inside of school.

Since we are typically isolated to our own grade levels we really don’t get to mingle and laugh with other grade levels because we have different schedules.

Teachers typically won’t have anything to talk about daily that does not pertain to school topics because we don’t hang around much together after school. Now we get to laugh and share our experiences of where we found those ducks and the joy it brought us for that moment finding those creatures as we sat doing our business in the restroom.

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We also get to share the trials and tribulations that we all are experiencing in the classroom. This is the time we get to console our peers and say, “And this too shall pass.”

Our teacher’s lunchtime potlucks are great too. We were able to savor our colleagues cooking when we had the Chili Cook Off Contest, Soups Cook Off Contest, Soups and Sandwich Day, and our weekly Taco Tuesdays. These were great for those teachers that like to cook and for others like me that like to eat!

Our Social Committee has been great at providing snacks and treats to help us know that we are appreciated. With Find the Ducks and Penguins and our yummy luncheons these have been life savers for all of us throughout the year. We are approaching STAAR Testing time and I will help the Social Committee bring us a little comfort food during that time.

Our Social Committee also acknowledges the importance of each teacher by celebrating their birthdays monthly. We also have special occasions where we show our cafeteria workers, custodial staff, paraprofessionals, campus police, nurse,

counselor, school administrators, and our PTO parents how much we appreciate them.

With these small gestures of yummy treats and things ensure that our basic needs are being met and you get to share some time with our colleagues is vital to a teacher’s mission in school.

Think about how effective it would be when you work together to build yourselves up. Edification is very important, so we won’t be the victims of “Kick the Cat” syndrome. It’s easy to forget our colleagues need to feel love and appreciated just as much as you do.

Make this Valentines Day a memorable one and bring a yummy treat to share with your admin, staff, and colleagues. The staff are out there working just as hard and long as you are. A nice “Thank you for all that you do,” helps. It will help when you need a colleague to help you get your Substitute folder out when you have an emergency at home and can’t get your things together for the day.

I wish you all a very Harmonious Valentine Day and expect that you all share some love with those you work with this month and every month to come.

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Anxious Andy has a secret admirer. Who could it possibly be? He is afraid to find out. What if this person is mean to him and forces him to marry her?

He wouldn't want to hurt her feelings. What if she only thought she liked him? What if it was all a prank? What if she was just waiting for him to smile and be happy about it and then she jumps out and screams "Ha Ha I would never like you."? This was all too much. He knew exactly what had to be done. He would fake an illness and stay home. Problem solved...or was it?

Cute book Reviewed in the United States on December 25, 2023 Good book on the importance of getting to the source of a child’s anxiety. Cute.

Super cute illustrations Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2023 Although it seemed a tad on the wordy side on some of the pages, it was a cute story with adorable illustrations.

Such a great read!

Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2023 This book highlights great communication on the mothers part and how we should talk with our kids. Getting to the source of the anxiety in our children is key!

It’s such a cute story and I’d recommend it for sure!

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The Art of Giving A Lesson from Nature and Human Relationships

by Santosh Kumar In the intricate dance of human relationships and the delicate balance of nature, the concept of giving holds a unique power—one that can shape destinies and influence the course of events. As we navigate the complex tapestry of society, it becomes evident that the idea of receiving something for nothing is a rarity. This brings us to the profound realization that success often lies in our ability to give, to create a reciprocal dynamic that fosters growth and mutual benefit.

The Farmer and the Bamboo Tree: Let me share a tale from the heartlands of India, where a farmer faced a dilemma with a

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bamboo tree standing tall in his field. Despite contemplating its removal for years, the farmer refrained from cutting it down. When the harvest yielded meager returns, he finally decided to sever the tree and sell its wood.

As the farmer raised his axe, a chorus of protests emerged. Sparrows, inhabitants of the tree, pleaded for their home to be spared. Insects revealed their role as decomposers, contributing to the fertility of the farmer’s land. The bamboo tree itself spoke of its long-standing partnership, providing nourishment to the soil, and its contributions to the ecosystem. In a final plea,

Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024

Conclusion:

honeybees offered a symbiotic relationship— honey in exchange for the preservation of their habitat.

As we navigate the complex web of human relationships, let us embrace the power of giving.

The farmer›s tale serves as a microcosm of our society—a reminder that success is not just about personal gain but about fostering connections, understanding interdependence, and contributing to the well-being of all. In the dance of give and take, let us strive to be not just recipients but also givers, for it is in giving that we truly receive. As it is rightly said that there is no free lunches in this world, everyone is supposed to give something inorder to achieve something.

The farmer, initially unmoved by the pleas of nature, found resonance when presented with an alternative that aligned with his need for sustenance. The bees, recognizing the farmer’s inclination towards monetary gain, struck a deal that benefited both parties.

The Human Paradox: This tale echoes the paradox of human behavior. Often, individuals may overlook the interconnectedness of life, dismissing the cries of nature and the importance of altruism. In a world driven by financial transactions and material pursuits, the lesson from the farmer and the bamboo tree serves as a poignant reminder.

The Golden Rule for Success: In a society where self-interest can dominate, the golden rule for success emerges—maintain a position of giving. While it may sound counterintuitive, the power of giving opens doors, builds alliances, and establishes a foundation for enduring success.

The Indian Perspective: In the rich tapestry of Indian culture, the concept of “Dana” or giving is deeply ingrained. Whether through philanthropy, hospitality, or acts of kindness, Indians understand the transformative power of giving. The ancient Sanskrit saying “दातव्यं पुण्येन कर्मणा» translates to «It is virtuous to give through deeds.»

This cultural ethos emphasizes the spiritual and material benefits of generosity.

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Teachers Making a Difference | Vol 2 Issue 2, February 2024