Teachers Making a Difference: Back to School Edition Issue 14 September 2023

Editor’s letter

by Dr Cathy Coker

Back to School

School is up and running and now I must retrain myself to go to bed and get up early for school. I would be better off training a dragon to read.

Staying up during the summer is now my biggest challenge because I’m addicted to Cake Wars. Words of wisdom, if you are on a diet do not watch cooking shows because they are only going to make you want to eat even more.

was stocked up with my favorite goodies. I opened the refrigerator door more than my front door this summer. I had to replace the light bulb. Of course, I made good choices. I only stocked up on the finer foods like Hersey chocolates, low calorie frozen foods, and other yummy meals that I am no longer eating. My phone has the market delivery service on Speed Dial. All I do is copy and paste the same foods and it comes to me asap.

I went back to school on August 1 and for the first time in my I was crying because I had lost all my logical senses during the summer. I asked myself why I had not kept decent hours. My answer was because I love watching television.

Staying up at night watching Netflix was like dating for me. I watched so much T.V. that when people asked me out, I said I was out on a date with Mr. Netflix and after that I had Mr. Amazon Prime waiting for me. My daughter called me a two timer. I laughed and told her that she could have Mr. Netflix for one night. I was going to be exclusive with Mr. Amazon Prime that day. She laughed and picked up the phone to look for a psychiatrist near me. I hope he likes watching movies.

When asked to go out, my friends also looked at me so confused that eventually they would go on their merry way to dine and dance without me. I was at home happy as a lark in my PJs watching my series that I had put off all season. Sorry guys I know I let you down but that was a great series, and I could not give it up.

I was a woman on a mission, and it was not impossible for me because I made sure my fridge

After attending workshops with toothpicks on my eyelids I finally got used to the idea that the party was over. I had to become a model citizen again. After 45 years of taming my impulses, I get to retire this year and date Mr. Netflix and Mr. Amazon Prime again for the rest of my life.

I do look forward to retirement but for now I am going to have a blast coloring with my second graders. I sent my daughter a text this past weekend and she said, why are you up at 10:30 p.m.? I said because it’s Saturday. I guess I am better off training a dragon to read because I am hooked on Cup Cake Wars now!!!!

Have a Spectacular Year Everyone!!!!!

Editors: Dr. Cathy Coker

Rivette Pena

Designers:

Rivette Pena

Stephane Bowker

Contributing Photographers and Stock Libraries:

Adobe Stock

Unsplash

Andy Dominguez

Advertisements: Dr. Cathy Coker

Marketing:

Alicia Grace

Thank you to Stephane Bowker at Working Dog Resources for providing tailored training for the layout of Teachers Making a Difference.

Navigating Hostility: Supporting Teachers Through Challenging Work Environments

Hispanic Heritage: Freebie Coloring and Word Search

Empowered Parenting

Inspiring Dreams on Labor Day: Teachers, Encourage Children to Think Big!

Brown Baggin’ It

Thriving in Your First Year of Teaching: 5 Encouraging Insights for New Educators

The Art of Learning from Experience: Role of Teachers in Shaping Human Growth

Navigating Hostility: Supporting Teachers Through Challenging Work Environments

By Cathy Coker

I’d like to introduce you to Mary, a seasoned teacher with a diverse range of teaching experiences. She has worked with students of all ages, from young children to college students, and has even supervised teachers on their journey to certification. With over 40 years of invaluable experience, she is quick to share her knowledge and maintains a positive demeanor. However, Mary now finds herself in a challenging situation: she’s beginning her first year at a new school.

connections with her colleagues – essentially, forming new friendships and becoming part of a work family.

However, her experience at the new school took a different turn. As she tried to acclimate herself to the school’s procedures and campus dynamics, Mary noticed the presence of cliques. Regrettably, she found herself cast as the unwelcome newcomer. With an air of exclusivity and history she wasn’t privy to, Mary was left feeling isolated. Her colleagues weren’t providing the support she had hoped for; in fact, they displayed hostility and were uncooperative.

Unfortunately, Mary is experiencing a hostile work environment. Bullying, which was once confined to the schoolyard, has found its way into the teacher’s lounge. But what does this look like, and how can it be identified?

Mary’s involvement in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and team meetings grew increasingly uncomfortable. Moreover, her role as a teacher came with the additional responsibility of being the Grade Level Chair (GLC). This position further fueled feelings of resentment within the team. Her three colleagues had formed a tightknit group, resembling a clique or a closed-off unit. They would move together, eat together, and collaborate on lesson plans together, all while purposefully excluding Mary. Despite her attempts to engage and seek advice, her questions were met with silence or dismissal.

Bullying is defined as unwanted and aggressive behavior that often involves a perceived power imbalance. Mary had initially anticipated joining a team where she would feel supported, valued, and respected. She looked forward to collaborative planning sessions and building meaningful

Subsequently, the situation escalated with accusations and threats. Interactions among team members grew more tense, particularly as her colleagues refused to acknowledge her in her new GLC role. They even threatened to take their concerns to the administration. Unfortunately, Mary’s enthusiasm for establishing a wellorganized grade-level communication system was misconstrued as authoritarian behavior. She was falsely accused of being a tyrant, making unreasonable demands, and even yelling at her colleagues.

At this juncture, Mary contemplated fleeing the situation and hoping her students would understand if she left after just two weeks of being with them. If you find yourself in a similar situation, it’s essential to seek help. Establish clear boundaries with your team. Remember, you’re all professionals, and while you don’t need to be friends, you must work together effectively. Refrain from taking their behavior personally; their opinions are uninformed since they don’t truly know you. Don’t let them wield perceived power over you – colleagues are peers, regardless of experience. Your input and recommendations hold equal value. You don’t need their validation; your students’ admiration is more than enough.

These accusations shocked anyone who knew Mary, but therein lay the issue: very few truly understood her. The administration sided with the more tenured teachers, leaving Mary feeling defeated. Her authority as a GLC was undermined, and her position within the team was solidified – as an outcast without recourse. Whenever she sought lesson materials or resources, her requests were met with unyielding resistance. The ridicule and negativity persisted, leaving Mary feeling isolated, devalued, and ostracized.

Be mindful that similar dynamics could be present in your workplace. Pay attention to teachers who isolate themselves during meals or move around the school alone. Let’s remain vigilant and offer assistance to our fellow teachers; they need our support. Teachers already face significant stress, so let’s not allow bullies to exacerbate the situation for our colleagues. A helping hand can significantly reduce emotional tension. After all, teachers shouldn’t inflict pain on each other; instead, they should uplift and empower one another.

Caught in this state of limbo, Mary faced an additional challenge: maintaining a façade of normalcy for her students. Despite her internal struggles, she continued to smile and pretend everything was fine, concealing her emotional turmoil.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage: Embracing Diversity and Enriching Culture

by E.L. Mendes

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15th to October 15th, is a time of vibrant celebration and recognition of the contributions, history, and cultures of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This annual observance serves as an opportunity not only to honor the achievements of this diverse community but also to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of their rich heritage.

Appreciating Hispanic heritage goes beyond merely celebrating cultural festivities. It involves acknowledging the countless ways in which Hispanic individuals have shaped and influenced the tapestry of American society. From trailblazing artists and musicians to groundbreaking scientists and entrepreneurs, their impact spans a myriad of fields. By highlighting these achievements, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse and intricate mosaic that constitutes our nation’s identity.

The Hispanic community encompasses a kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, traditions, and histories. From the lively rhythms of salsa music to the mouthwatering aromas of traditional cuisine, every aspect of Hispanic culture is infused with passion and depth. Recognizing and appreciating this heritage is not only an act of cultural preservation but also an essential step towards fostering inclusivity and understanding.

Moreover, Hispanic heritage offers a gateway to cultural empathy and global awareness. By immersing ourselves in the stories and traditions of this community, we expand our horizons and cultivate an open-minded outlook. This understanding is especially vital in our increasingly interconnected world, where diverse perspectives are crucial for navigating complex global challenges.

One of the most compelling reasons to appreciate Hispanic heritage is its power to unite people from different backgrounds. The shared experiences, struggles, and triumphs of the Hispanic community resonate across cultures, reminding us of our shared humanity. By embracing their heritage, we not only honor their stories but also embrace the richness of our collective human narrative.

In conclusion, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the invaluable impact of Hispanic and Latino Americans on our society. It’s a chance to honor their traditions, achievements, and resilience. By appreciating Hispanic heritage, we open doors to greater understanding, acceptance, and unity. Let us take this opportunity to not only celebrate but also to learn from and engage with the vibrant tapestry of cultures that enrich our nation.

Education plays a pivotal role in fostering appreciation for Hispanic heritage. Schools, institutions, and communities can come together to create platforms that promote learning about the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Through cultural workshops, art exhibits, lectures, and discussions, we can provide opportunities for dialogue that bridge cultural divides and build connections.

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Welcome To the School Year… Start a New!

by Paul Ruez, M.Ed

With school underway the cultural and behavioral tones are being set by everyone from top down. Some teachers and administrators, while maintaining balanced positions of authority, have successfully invested in finding ways and means for connecting from the heart. That genuine sincerity reflects in their empathic connections with others. Quality love-based relationships follow and this opens the door to a more enriched and fun school year.

Examples of this extreme are found in Reuters News Special Report:

Political violence in polarized U.S. at its worst since 1970s

https://www.reuters.com/investigates/specialreport/usa-politics-violence/

Daily we hear about tragic incidents involving school age people. Of course, what do we expect? Kids see adults who are supposed to “know better” acting out behaviors most of us would not allow in our classrooms or personal relationships.

As an educator I see this as a powerful opportunity. I don’t see this as a “Right / Wrong” issue. I suggest that it’s about learning, teaching and practicing creative empathy-based communication and conflict resolution skills. And the most difficult part of this begins with the student in the mirror.

The extreme flip side is tormented by people who have learned only how to dominate and it’s their way or the high-way. We’ve all met these needy people and now in our culture some of them have popularized vengeance, intolerance, revenge and even hatred. Yes, I also observe that entitlement - as opposed to personal responsibility - likewise infects behavior choices.

For those who seek solutions I encourage you to collect, copy and share the lessons I have given through this fine magazine, Teachers Making a Difference. My LinkedIn site also has useful lesson material: https://bit.ly/Ruez-Restorative

Take digestible bits and pieces and develop them to meet your needs. Invest 5 minutes of each class and target one issue. The Horse Frog Lesson (communication tools) is perfect for integrating into class periods. So are the Jabberwocky Lessons (personal responsibility), the Drop Dead Play (conflict resolution) and many others: See my Educators 1st Responders Tool Kit in the July 2023 Teachers Making a Difference page 7. Ask me for help. https://bit.ly/1St-RespondersEducToolsTMAD

Please keep eyes and ears open for students and adults in need… Yes, it could be you. Help is available. Seek and share.

And, remember to document your progress. It is a valuable part of your personal and professional growth and may be something you can share to help others as I share what you read here.

Paul Ruez, M.Ed. RuezArt@gmail.com 442-287-3746

Begin daily by making this a solo priority. Document / journal what works. Next, collaborate - have a check-in partner. Formal or informal, arrange after school sessions with a similar focus. If students give a daily video news program, in addition to scores and activity schedules, incorporate successful behavior strategies and tactics into those presentations. Identify and join teachers with super needy students you have in common. Do what works and share what works.

Empowered Parenting

by Eric Robinson

Dear Parents, Teachers, Administrators, School Social Workers, Counselors, Family and Community Engagement Professionals, Staff, and Paraprofessionals.

Imagine if you had the power to unlock your child’s untapped educational potential, to strengthen the bond between your family and the school, and to shape your child’s future success. Let’s turn that imagination into reality with our cutting-edge online course, “Togetr4success – Empowered Parenting: Boosting School Engagement.”

Are you ready to move from passive observation to active involvement in your child’s education?

Are you eager to build unshakeable bonds with their school, teachers, and peers? We recognize the pivotal role you play in nurturing your child’s academic growth, social development, and overall success. Hence, we’ve handcrafted this comprehensive course just for you.

What’s in it for You?

Our “Empowered Parenting” course presents a treasure trove of practical strategies, proven techniques, and invaluable insights to supercharge your involvement in your child’s academic journey. Here’s a sneak peek at the exciting revelations you’ll uncover:

1. Positive Parent-School Relationships: Master the art of nurturing strong ties with teachers and administrators, paving the way for fluid communication and collaboration.

2. Barriers to Parent Involvement: Delve into the heart of schools, demystify education policies

and curriculum, and navigate key decisionmaking processes with ease.

3. Learning at Home: Get equipped with handy tips and techniques to foster a dynamic learning environment at home, propelling your child’s academic prowess.

4. The “10-week challenge” as a ParentTeacher Conference Substitute: Leverage this opportunity to address concerns, set realistic goals, and bolster your child’s progress.

5. Homework Habits: Unearth effective strategies to establish a productive homework routine, manage time like a pro, and reinforce your child’s study habits.

6. Student Well-being: Learn the secrets to supporting your child’s social and emotional development, overcome hurdles, and cultivate a joyful school experience.

Why Join “Boosting School Engagement”?

Expert-Led Content: Benefit from the wisdom of Eric Robinson, author of “The Missing Link” - your ultimate guide to increasing parent involvement in school. A seasoned school social worker and college professor, Eric truly understands the parent-school dynamics.

Practical Strategies: Get your hands on actionable tips, interactive exercises, and effective tools to implement your learning instantly.

Convenient Online Format: Learn at your own pace, in your own space. Our user-friendly online platform ensures flexible learning.

Community Support: Become part of our lively online community at Togetr4success.blog. Share ideas, seek advice, and foster strong connections with fellow parents.

Take the Leap!

This is your chance to be a driving force in your child’s educational journey. Enroll in “Empowered Parenting: Boosting School Engagement” today and unlock the secrets to successful parentschool collaboration!

About the Author

Eric Robinson is a former school social worker and associate professor of psychology and human services. He is passionate about education and the importance of parent involvement in schools. He has recognized how parent involvement in schools has become controversial and an underutilized resource for teachers and administrators.

In his early career as a school social worker, he was on the front lines, and he realized very quickly that his skills and education were limited by the need to respond to student crises. This was also the case with teachers he observed as exhausted at the end of a school day. Very early, he saw the potential of sustained parent involvement, and over the years, he recognized that schools needed an easy, step-by-step guide that was simple to follow and delivered results.

The book and online course represent what is possible with sustained parent involvement.

To learn more and secure your spot, visit our website or call the number below. Remember, as an engaged parent, you hold the key to your child’s thriving future!

Website: https://togetr4success.thinkific.com/ bundles/togetr4success

Website: https://togetr4success.thinkific.com/ courses/10-week-challenge-workshop-course

Call today: (860) 706-7935

Invest in your child’s future. Enroll now and let’s embark on this transformative educational adventure together!

Inspiring Dreams on Labor Day: Teachers, Encourage Children to Think Big!

As Labor Day approaches, teachers hold the incredible power to shape young minds and inspire future generations. This Labor Day, let’s seize the opportunity to encourage our students to dream big and think big.

Use this occasion to ignite conversations about passion and possibilities. Encourage your students to explore their interests, ask questions, and set lofty goals. Remind them that no dream is too big, and no idea is too small. Every great achievement began with a dreamer who dared to think beyond limits.

Challenge your students to envision a better world and imagine their role in it. Teach them that learning is a journey that never stops, and that their potential is boundless.

As we honor the contributions of workers, let’s also celebrate the potential within each young mind. Teachers, you have the incredible privilege of nurturing aspirations. Let’s use this Labor Day to plant the seeds of big thinking and show our students that with hard work and belief in themselves, they can achieve greatness.

Labor Day isn’t just a day off; it’s a celebration of hard work and aspirations. Teachers, you play a pivotal role in fostering creativity and ambition in your students. Share stories of remarkable individuals who turned their dreams into reality through dedication and perseverance.

Nurturing the Flame of Wisdom: The Timeless Role of Teachers and the Sacred Duty of Students

by Santosh Kumar

Introduction:

In a world that seems to prioritize material gain over moral values, the role of teachers and mentors remains ever more critical. These guiding figures shape our lives, providing knowledge, wisdom, and moral compasses. This article will delve into the profound importance of teachers or mentors in everyone’s life, elucidate the responsibilities of students towards their gurus, and draw inspiration from ancient Indian texts, including the revered Guru-Shishya Parampara. We will also explore real-life examples from both history and today to highlight the enduring significance of this relationship.

• Guides of Morality: Beyond textbooks, they are moral guides, instilling values such as honesty, compassion, and empathy. In a world where moral foundations sometimes seem shaky, they provide much-needed stability.

• Life Coaches: Teachers offer invaluable guidance in life’s myriad choices. Be it career decisions or personal dilemmas, they lend perspective and wisdom, helping us make informed choices.

• Custodians of Culture: In an era of globalization, teachers help preserve cultural heritage and traditions, instilling in students a sense of identity and the importance of cultural values.

The Unwavering Significance of Teachers and Mentors:

• Bearers of Knowledge: Teachers and mentors are the torchbearers of knowledge, illuminating the path to understanding complex subjects and concepts, helping us to make sense of the world around us.

• Champions of Potential: Exceptional teachers inspire creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. They nurture students to become creators rather than mere consumers in an ever-changing world.

The Sacred Duty of Students to Their Guru:

• Respect and Gratitude: Students should express profound respect and gratitude to their teachers or mentors, recognizing the dedication and effort invested in their growth and development.

sharing helps to expand the circle of wisdom.

• Lifelong Learning: The teacher-student relationship extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. Students should continue seeking their guru’s counsel throughout their lives, fostering ongoing growth and learning.

The Guru-Shishya Parampara and Its Relevance:

• Active Participation: Students must actively engage in the learning process, displaying enthusiasm and a thirst for knowledge, ensuring that the guidance of their mentors is not in vain.

The Guru-Shishya Parampara, an ancient Indian tradition, epitomizes the sanctity of the teacherstudent relationship. In this tradition, knowledge is shared selflessly, devoid of monetary transactions, emphasizing spiritual and intellectual growth. In a world where transactions often eclipse human connection, this tradition serves as a timeless reminder of the purity of knowledge transfer.

Inspiring Tales from Ancient Indian Texts:

• Arjuna and Dronacharya: Arjuna, the legendary warrior from the Mahabharata, was a devoted student of Dronacharya. His unwavering commitment to his guru not only made him an unparalleled archer but also a paragon of humility and duty.

• Application of Wisdom: It is incumbent upon students to not only absorb knowledge but also to apply the wisdom imparted by their mentors in their lives, demonstrating the value they place on their guru’s teachings.

• Sharing Knowledge: Just as teachers share knowledge, students should perpetuate the cycle of learning by sharing their knowledge with others. This tradition of knowledge-

• Ekalavya’s Dedication: Ekalavya, another character from the Mahabharata, displayed unparalleled devotion to his guru, Dronacharya, even from afar. His story is a testament to the profound bond between a student and his teacher.

• Ethical Education: Incorporate ethics and moral education into the curriculum, guiding students to make principled choices in life.

• Buddha and His Disciples: Siddhartha Gautama, who became Buddha, had a circle of devoted disciples who revered him as their spiritual guru. His teachings continue to guide millions today.

Suggestions for Nurturing Teacher-Student Relationships:

• Values-Based Education: Educational institutions should prioritize valuesbased education, emphasizing character development alongside academic success.

• Teacher Training: Invest in continuous teacher training, equipping educators with tools to impart wisdom and ethics alongside knowledge.

• Mentorship Programs: Promote mentorship programs that foster deep, meaningful relationships between teachers and students beyond the classroom.

Conclusion:

In a world often driven by material pursuits, the role of teachers and mentors in nurturing wisdom and moral values is irreplaceable. By honoring the sacred duty of students to their gurus, upholding the Guru-Shishya Parampara, and implementing the suggested measures, we can ensure the timeless relevance of this profound relationship in our rapidly changing world. It is a relationship that transcends monetary transactions, fostering a legacy of wisdom, character, and humanity..

• Cultural Preservation: Teach cultural values and heritage to maintain connections to one’s roots and foster an understanding of diverse cultures.

Math Activities for Middle School and Algebra I

Ideal for : Engaging Classwork Activities

Self Checking Digital Activities

Assessments

Homeschool Practice

Brown Bagging It

3 Ingredient Tortellini

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 28 ounce can diced fire roasted tomatoes (with liquid)

• 10 ounce bag of fresh tortellini)

Directions

1. Add the chicken stock and fire roasted tomatoes to a medium pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. When at a rolling boil, turn off heat and puree with an immersion blender.

2. When pureed, add the fresh tortellini and cook for 3-4 minutes (read the package directions.)

3. Turn off heat and serve hot.

4. Enjoy!

Love yourself and your family with this easy delicious recipe.

Thriving in Your First Year of Teaching: 5 Encouraging Insights for New Educators

By Rivette Pena

Embarking on your first year of teaching is an exciting and transformative journey. As you step into your role as an educator, remember that challenges are opportunities in disguise. Here are five supportive insights to help you thrive during your inaugural year in the classroom.

1. **Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability:** Teaching is dynamic, and no two days are the same. Be ready to adapt your lesson plans, strategies, and even your mindset to suit the evolving needs of your students. Flexibility allows you to respond creatively to unexpected situations and fosters a resilient teaching style that will serve you well throughout your career.

3. **Seek Guidance and Collaborate:**

You’re not alone on this journey. Reach out to experienced colleagues for advice, mentorship, and support. Collaborating with fellow teachers can provide fresh perspectives, time-saving tips, and a sense of camaraderie. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your own insights—it’s how we all grow together.

2. **Build Strong Relationships:** Establishing meaningful connections with your students goes a long way in creating a positive learning environment. Take time to understand their individual strengths, challenges, and interests. When students feel valued and understood, they become more engaged and motivated to learn.

4. **Self-Care Is Essential:** Teaching can be demanding, but don’t forget to prioritize your well-being. Take breaks, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that rejuvenate your spirit. When you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for your students. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for sustainable teaching.

5. **Celebrate Small Victories:** Teaching is a journey of incremental successes. Every “aha” moment, every positive interaction, and every lesson learned is a victory worth celebrating. Keep a journal to reflect on the positive moments, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress will boost your confidence and remind you why you chose this path.

As you step into your first year of teaching, remember that growth comes from embracing challenges with a positive attitude. You have a unique opportunity to inspire and shape young minds. Embrace the journey, learn from every experience, and remember that every day in the classroom is a chance to make a difference. You’ve got this!

The Art of Learning from Experience: Role of Teachers in Shaping Human Growth

by Santosh Kumar

Introduction

In the intricate tapestry of human evolution, the ability to learn from past experiences has been a cornerstone of progress. The process of learning, deeply ingrained in our nature, is what separates us from other species. From the simplest tasks to the most complex challenges, humans have consistently demonstrated an inherent inclination to draw wisdom from their past endeavors. This phenomenon, deeply interwoven with the role of teachers, not only ensures personal growth but also propels collective advancement.

Learning from Experience: A Natural Human Instinct**

Learning from experience is a fundamental human instinct. As children, we instinctively learn not to touch a hot stove after the first painful encounter. This elementary lesson, imprinted in our memory, is a testament to our brain’s remarkable capacity to process and retain information. Similarly, every experience, whether triumph or setback, contributes to our ever-evolving knowledge reservoir. For instance, a student who faces difficulties in solving a particular math problem will likely approach a similar challenge with a more refined strategy next time, drawing insights from previous attempts.

The Role of Teachers: Guiding Lights in the Journey of Learning

While the process of learning from experience is intrinsic, the role of teachers magnifies its impact manifold. Teachers, in various forms, serve as

catalysts that channel experiences into structured learning. These mentors help students discern patterns, extract valuable insights, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the world around them. Imagine a young artist struggling to create a lifelike portrait. A skilled art teacher provides guidance, pointing out areas for improvement, and demonstrating techniques. Through this mentorship, the artist not only refines the current piece but also acquires skills that will influence future works. The teacher’s guidance transforms an isolated experience into a stepping stone for continuous growth.

Shaping Perspectives: Broadening Horizons through Shared Experiences

Learning from experience is not limited to personal encounters alone. History, literature, and collective wisdom offer an extensive repertoire of experiences from which to draw insights. Teachers play a pivotal role in bringing these shared experiences to the forefront, allowing students to learn from the experiences of others. For instance, studying the triumphs and tribulations of historical figures like Abraham Lincoln or Marie Curie provides invaluable lessons in perseverance, resilience, and innovation.

The Power of Reflection: Transforming Experiences into Wisdom

While experiences are the raw materials of learning, reflection is the alchemical process that transforms them into wisdom. Teachers facilitate this transformative journey by encouraging

students to reflect on their experiences critically. By guiding students to analyze their successes and failures, teachers foster self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

Consider a student who excelled in a science fair project. A perceptive teacher might encourage the student to reflect not only on the success but also on the steps that led to it. This introspective analysis helps the student internalize effective strategies, enhancing their problem-solving skills for future projects.

Conclusion

Learning from experience is an integral part of the human journey, woven into our very nature. It is through this process that we evolve, adapt, and flourish. Teachers, acting as mentors and guides, play a crucial role in shaping the way we perceive and internalize our experiences. By providing structure, context, and guidance, teachers elevate personal experiences into a realm of collective knowledge, fostering growth and enlightenment.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of life, the art of learning from experience, guided by the wisdom of teachers, remains an invaluable compass pointing toward progress.

By Shea LaFontaine

I’ve spent countless hours this summer watching my son, Adrian, play with sidewalk chalk. He’s obsessed! If there’s one thing I’ve learned watching him - sweat dripping, chalk flying across the pavement - it’s that sidewalk chalk can be an extremely powerful learning tool!

Since we bought our first box of chalk a few months back, he has learned to write several letters, numbers, and symbols, draw smiley faces and penguins, and identify pretty much every shape I could think of (not to mention colors)... and he’s only 2 1/2! Sidewalk chalk is super engaging, gets your students outside, and can be adapted to teach just about anything. Here are 6 of my favorite sidewalk chalk learning ideas (psst... I saved the best one for last!).

One: “Chalk Cards” Task Cards With Chalk1

Like task cards, but with chalk! Task cards are great for getting students up and moving. The basic idea: spread cards with different questions or math problems on them around the classroom, hand out a response sheet on clipboards, and off they go. Task cards are a great way to turn a worksheet into a hands-on, engaging activity that requires movement and cooperation. Instead of spreading

out cards, write the questions or problems with sidewalk chalk! A traditional sidewalk works well for this because each square segment of the sidewalk is like a different “card.” If you don’t have a sidewalk, any traffic-free paved surface will do. I’ve created a “Chalk Cards” response sheet that you can grab for free here. Just add sidewalk chalk and clipboards!

Two: Math Drawings

You had all the fun writing the chalk cards in that last idea, let’s give your students a chance to get their hands a little chalky this time. Drawing math models is great for building conceptual understanding. Sidewalk chalk just makes it way more fun. Some ideas: fraction models, geometric shapes and figures, multiplication/division arrays and equal groups, illustrating word problems. Check out my Mathtionary game here to snag some cards you can use to inspire math drawings and even turn this idea into a game!

Three: Sight Word Practice

This idea works well for reading or writing sight words. It’s also great for practicing spelling in the upper grades!

For reading practice: write some of the most common sight words (or whatever words you want them to practice reading, really) with chalk all over your paved area. Have students find a partner and walk around together. As they discover new words, they take turns reading the them aloud to one another. Partners provide accountability and allow students to build collaboration and participation skills.

For writing practice: spread students out on the pavement and give them each a piece of sidewalk chalk. Call a word aloud and have them try their best to write it with the chalk. This can be adapted to work for upper grades spelling word practice as well!

Four: Handwriting Practice

This one is simple but effective and has worked wonders for my toddler! Lower grades can practice upper and lower case letter writing while upper grades practice their cursive letters. Spread out some cards with examples of how to correctly form the letters, hand out the chalk, and let them have at it! If you need to differentiate this activity, consider drawing lines to help particularly sloppy writers stay neat and organized.

Five: Illustrating the Curriculum

I love this one because the possibilities are endless! Just give them chalk and let them draw! But find a way to relate it to whatever you are learning.

Draw a character or scene from a book you are reading. Draw a concept you are learning in science - the solar system, moon phases, the rock cycle, types of clouds, etc. Play sidewalk chalk Pictionary. Students take turns drawing what’s on their card while the rest of the class tries to guess. So. Much. Fun.

Six: A Life-Sized Board Game

This one is my all-time favorite. Draw a life-sized game board with chalk (or have your students do it). You can even add special spaces like “move ahead,” “roll again, “go back to start,” etc. Find a dice (preferably a big one) and let the games begin! This can be played just for fun, like at recess, but there are also many ways to make it educational.

Let’s give your students a chance

to get their hands a little chalky.

Back to School: A Playful Poem of Pencils and Possibilities

In a world of pencils and pens so neat, It's time for school, can you feel the beat? Backpacks and lunchboxes, oh what a treat, Back to school we go, ready to take a seat!

The alarm clock rings, a rude awakening call, No more sleeping in, it's time for the hall. With books in hand, we march down the hall, Off to learn new things, both big and small.

Math equations and science facts, English grammar that sometimes distracts, History's mysteries and art's colorful tracks, We're back to school, ready for the acts.

Teachers with wisdom and tales to share, They guide us through lessons with utmost care. In the lunchroom, we trade snacks to compare, Oh, the friendships we make, it's beyond compare!

So here's to backpacks, and laughter's sound, To learning and growing, all year round. Back to school adventures, let's abound, A new chapter starts, with joy we're crowned!

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