TEACHERS Making a difference
Issue 17: Christmas Edition Navigating the Standardized Testing Rollercoaster: Balancing Pressure and Individual Growth
Unleash Your Holiday Superpowers
The Silent Scream The Vanishing Autonomy of Educators The magazine by teachers for teachers December 2023
The Mighty Power of Teachers: Shaping Minds and Inspiring Change
by Santosh Kumar
Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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C&P Publishing
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Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
Editor’s letter
The Meaning of the Spirit of Christmas by Dr Cathy Coker
Christmas is a celebration, a time for giving and not simply a day we exchange gifts. The spirit of Christmas is in togetherness, it’s in the thought to which you put into thinking about others, it’s a selfless time, where we forgive, take stock of what’s important and become better versions of ourselves.
Christmas tradition, no matter where we are to be a little kinder, more forgiving, less judging, more grateful, and more generous in sharing our abundance with those in need. I look forward to spending more time with my friends and family this Christmas. I love what I do but sometimes it takes me away too much from those that matter. I need to make time to take care of the people that need me the most and those are my friends and family. I send you Love, Joy and Peace to you, our Readers. May Christ’s spirit surround you and your family this Christmas. With Love, Dr. Cathy Coker
Think about other ways of spreading good cheer to others. You may find it fun by visiting the elderly and sharing a story or two with them. Or get some friends to go caroling at the senior living homes and have Christmas sing-alongs with those folks. Instead of picking up your phone to see what your friends are doing, stop, look around, and ask yourself, “Who needs me today?” You may be the key to reaching out and touching the life of a peer or giving some encouraging words to a friend who is quietly struggling. To truly honor the true spirit of Christmas and Christ coming into the world, we must do as He did and reach out in compassion and mercy to our fellowmen. Let this become our Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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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
8 Achieve a Winter Harmony Through Inclusive Celebrations in the Classroom
18 Navigating the Standardized Testing Rollercoaster: Balancing Pressure and Individual Growth
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Gift Giving & the Power of Education
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Thank you to Stephane Bowker at Working Dog Resources for providing tailored training for the layout The Silent Scream of Teachers Making a The Vanishing Autonomy of Educators Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023 4 Difference.
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Editors Letter
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What is Vowel Clustering?
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Revitalize Your Winter Break with These 6 Essential Preparations
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Experience Luxurious Glamping at its Finest
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The Mighty Power of Teachers:
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Brown Baggin’ It
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Unleash
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Shaping Minds and Inspiring
Your Holiday Superpowers
Timid Rabbit: A Critters Christmas Eve Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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What is Vowel Clustering? By Elaine Clanton Harpine, Ph. D. Vowel clustering is a teaching method that works with struggling or failing students—all ages. Vowel clustering even works with special need students or students learning English as a second language. Vowel clustering teaches words by sounds rather than by rules. Vowel clustering directly connects letters and sounds—no pictures. Students learn to identify letter sounds by matching letters to sounds or sound clusters.
You might be asking, is there proof that vowel clustering works? Yes, my research is published, but let me share a few success stories: • •A student diagnosed with ADHD and failing in reading moved up two grade levels in one year.
With vowel clustering, there are no rules to memorize, and students are never allowed to guess at a word. Vowel clustering teaches spelling, handwriting, oral reading fluency, comprehension, and story writing. Vowel clustering has been tested and proven to work with struggling, at-risk, and failing students for over 20 years. One student, who failed for nine years, learned to read in 3 ½ years using vowel clustering. I have even had struggling students move up four grade levels in one year using vowel clustering. These were students who had failed multiple years in schools that taught whole language, balanced literacy, and phonics.
•A student diagnosed with dyslexia and whose parents tried everything, including expensive private one-on-one tutoring in phonics, learned to read, and moved up to beginning chapter books in one year. •
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Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
•Six children who entered the program reading at the (pre-K) level ended the year reading at the 2nd grade reading level. Only one child in the group was a first grader.
• •One student started at the pre-K level and ended the year reading at the third-grade level, while a second grader started the year reading below first grade and ended at the fourth-grade level. •
Yes, you actually help students learn to comprehend what they are reading when they apply what they read to a hands-on project. If you have questions, I am always happy to help. For links to my published research on vowel clustering or for the candle project, go to: https:// www.groupcentered.com/reading-blog
•One student moved up four grade levels in reading, four students moved up three grade levels in reading, and eight students moved up two grade levels in reading. Christmas project. Vowel clustering methods also help students who are struggling with comprehension. Children (even 4-year-olds) can make a candle. Children read and follow stepby-step directions to string the beads and make a candle.
Following step-by-step directions is one of the best ways to build comprehension skills. My Christment books provide step-by-step directions, patterns, and pictures.
Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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Achieve a Winter Harmony Through Inclusive Celebrations in the Classroom by E.L. Mendes Celebrating Christmas in a politically correct and inclusive way in the classroom involves recognizing and respecting the diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and traditions of your students. Here are some ideas to create an inclusive holiday celebration: Dec. 05: St. Nicholas Eve.
2. Diverse Decorations: - Decorate the classroom with symbols and decorations from various winter celebrations. Incorporate snowflakes, winter animals, and generic winter imagery to create a festive atmosphere without emphasizing a specific holiday. Take this snowflake made from popsicle sticks.
Dec 07: Hanukkah. Dec. 08: Bodhi Day. Dec. 13: Santa Lucia Day. Dec. 21: Yule. Dec. 25: Christmas. Dec. 26: Kwanzaa.
1. Winter Celebrations Theme: - Instead of focusing solely on Christmas, create a “Winter Celebrations” theme. Highlight various winter holidays and traditions from different cultures, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and more.
3. Cultural Displays: - Set up displays or bulletin boards showcasing the diverse holiday traditions celebrated by your students. Encourage them to share information, artifacts, or stories related to their cultural celebrations.
4. Holiday Card Exchange: - Instead of a traditional Christmas card exchange, have a “Winter Wishes” or “Kindness Cards” exchange where students share positive messages without reference to specific holidays.
5. Crafts and Activities: - Plan crafts and activities that are inspired by winter themes rather than tied to a particular holiday. Create snowflakes, winter scenes, or other crafts that celebrate the season without being religious or culturally specific.
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6. Educational Lessons:
9. Winter-themed Snacks:
- Integrate educational lessons about different winter holidays, customs, and traditions. This helps students learn about and appreciate the diversity in your classroom.
- Incorporate winter-themed snacks that are not tied to specific holidays. Consider snowmanshaped cookies, hot cocoa, or other treats that capture the spirit of the season without emphasizing a particular celebration.
10. Inclusive Language: - Be mindful of the language you use. Instead of exclusively saying “Merry Christmas,” use inclusive greetings like “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings.”
11. Respect Family Traditions: - Acknowledge and respect the diverse family traditions of your students. Encourage them to share their holiday customs and experiences without pressuring anyone to conform to a specific celebration.
7. Multicultural Books: - Include a selection of multicultural books in your holiday reading list. Choose stories that represent a variety of traditions and celebrations, allowing all students to see their cultures reflected.
8. Holiday Songs Playlist: - Curate a playlist that includes songs from different winter celebrations. This can range from classic Christmas carols to songs from Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other cultural celebrations.
By embracing inclusivity and diversity, you can create a classroom celebration that allows all students to feel respected and valued during the holiday season. This approach fosters a positive and supportive learning environment for everyone.. Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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menudo McRib tamales glacier reindeer ice skating hockey snowboarding sledding skiing boots soup ham gingerbread snowman wind winter marshmallows hot cocoa knit hat ear muffs mittens jacket scarf ice snow polar bear penguin
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Revitalize Your Winter Break with These 6 Essential Preparations By Rivette Pena The holiday season is fast approaching, and as you eagerly anticipate your well-deserved Christmas break, it’s crucial to ensure a smooth return to work. Here are six essential tasks to tackle before you immerse yourself in the festivities: 1. Strategize Your Lesson Plans in Advance:
2. Create a Serene Workspace: Treat yourself to a clutter-free environment by tidying up your desk. A neat and organized workspace will not only welcome you back with a sense of calm but also set a positive tone for the upcoming year.
Before you embark on your two-week break, take some time to prep your lesson plans and organize all necessary materials. Avoid the last-minute rush and ensure a seamless return by setting the stage for a productive new year.
3. Activate the “Out of Office” Mode: Unplug from work during your break by turning on the “Out of Office” notification for your email. Resist the urge to respond to messages from parents and dedicate this time to creating cherished memories with your family.
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4. Leave Work at Work: Make a firm commitment not to bring work home over the holidays. Your break is an opportunity to recharge, so if you have impending tasks such as grading, ensure they are completed before you leave. Embrace the holiday spirit and let your worries stay behind.
5. Dispose of Perishables:
wipe the slate clean and greet your students with renewed enthusiasm, seeing each one as the little angels they are, no matter their antics before the break.
Follow these six steps, and you’ll not only enjoy a stress-free holiday break but also return to work energized and ready for a new beginning.
Prevent unwelcome surprises upon your return by clearing out any perishable items from your workspace. No one wants to be greeted by unexpected visitors, be they tiny pests or forgotten milk cartons hidden behind shelves.
6. Embrace and Recharge: Above all, relish in the joy of your well-deserved break. Allow yourself to reset, rejuvenate, and return with a fresh perspective. As you come back, Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
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Navigating the Standardized Testing Rollercoaster: Balancing Pressure and Individual Growth by Staff As the upcoming standardized tests loom on the horizon, the educational landscape can often feel like a thrilling yet daunting downhill rollercoaster. The pressure is palpable, and both teachers and students find themselves on this wild ride, each day resembling a test to discern readiness and identify those in need of additional support. It’s a challenging journey where decisions akin to a “Sophie’s Choice” moment must be made— deciding where to invest time and resources, knowing that not every student will exhibit the desired level of growth.
The weight of this responsibility is not lost on educators. The pressure builds, and the stress is felt by all involved. It becomes a delicate balancing act, a tightrope walk between addressing the needs of those who require intervention and recognizing that each child deserves a fair chance at individual growth, irrespective of the numbers game imposed by administrative demands.
In this uphill battle, teachers are confronted with the task of determining who is ready for the standardized testing challenge and who might benefit from additional support. Every assessment becomes a crucial indicator, a litmus test of sorts, revealing the strengths and weaknesses of both the students and the teaching methods employed. The struggle is not only about preparing students for the test but also about ensuring that the interventions provided are tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Teachers are forced to choose who they will spend time tutoring. Choosing only those that will show growth in the small amount of time. 18
Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
The reality of the situation may sound harsh, like an unsparing reality check in the realm of education. It’s true that not every student will show the expected amount of growth, and administrators often emphasize the importance of achieving certain benchmarks. However, educators need to keep in mind that every child, regardless of their performance on a standardized test, deserves an equitable amount of intervention necessary for their individual growth.
As we hurtle towards the standardized testing season, let’s remember that education is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It’s a multifaceted, intricate process that requires understanding, flexibility, and a commitment to fostering growth in every student. By embracing this perspective, educators can navigate the rollercoaster of standardized testing with resilience and ensure that every child receives the support they need to flourish, regardless of the numbers on a page.
As we hurtle towards the standardized testing season, let’s remember that education is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor.
In the pursuit of academic excellence, it’s crucial to resist reducing students to mere statistics. While the numbers matter, they should not overshadow the fact that each child is on their unique educational journey. Teachers must advocate for a holistic approach, one that considers not just test scores but also the diverse learning styles, challenges, and potential of each student.
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Gift Giving & the Power of Education By: Paul Ruez, M.Ed. Yes this is holiday time where giving gifts is common and even expected. For at least a moment let’s hit the pause button and accept the following gift of education presented here.
Mother Nature provides powerful and creative “reminders” of the
In the spirit of giving and receiving please tap the power of education and use this gift to reduce the trauma and frustration in your life and those you love and care about. Please send questions and or reports of your experience with this to: RuezArt@gmail.com
ultimate Power of the universe. Suns rising and setting, flowers going to seed and blooming in the spring are but a few. This Power creates, motivates and sustains all life and its manifestations. Manifestations we call people have the freedom of choice how we will express this Power in our daily lives. Those who choose to live with compassion, civil tolerance and respectful love, like the rising sun, outshine the vicious hatred, intolerance and self serving lies and hurtful behavior chosen by the greedy ‘my way right-orwrong’ dominators. All of us have the freedom to choose how to learn, teach and practice non-hurtful behavior. Toward this end I applied Dr. Marshall Rosenberg’s (cnvc. org) teaching to this lesson. This applies well to all ages and venues: https://bit.ly/4stepConflictRes
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The Mighty Power of Teachers: Shaping Minds and Inspiring Change by Santosh Kumar Introduction:
The Power of Influence:
Teachers, often regarded as the unsung heroes of our society, possess a power that surpasses that of powerful leaders and politicians. They are the silent architects of the future, molding young minds, and if they choose, they have the potential to shape and influence these minds. In this article, we will explore the immense power held by teachers, drawing inspiration from the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata, and the story of Dronacharya, a revered teacher, and his quest for revenge on his childhood friend, Panchalnaresh, through his disciples, the Pandavas. This narrative will serve as a powerful illustration of the concept that teachers are not weak; rather, they hold a unique and transformative power.
Teachers possess the power to influence the beliefs, attitudes, and perspectives of their students. They can inspire greatness, ignite passions, and encourage critical thinking. In the words of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India, “Teachers are the torchbearers of the nation’s progress.” Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, affecting the choices and actions of their students for years to come.
The Power to Cultivate Minds: Teachers are entrusted with the noble responsibility of nurturing the intellectual and moral growth of their students. They have the capacity to instill knowledge, values, and wisdom, shaping young minds into responsible citizens of the world. This transformative role is often overlooked, but it holds the key to a brighter future.
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“Teachers are the torchbearers of the nation’s progress.” Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, affecting the choices and actions of their students for years to come. Manipulation vs. Enlightenment: While teachers have the power to influence, it is crucial to emphasize that this power should be wielded responsibly. The line between manipulation and enlightenment is thin, and it is
Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
the ethical duty of teachers to guide their students toward truth, knowledge, and empowerment, rather than control or manipulation.
Conclusion: Teachers are not weak; they are the custodians of knowledge, values, and the future. Their power lies in their ability to nurture, inspire, and shape young minds. The story of Dronacharya reminds us that this power must be used judiciously and ethically, for it can have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. In the grand tapestry of human existence, teachers are the weavers, crafting a brighter tomorrow with every lesson they impart.
The Tale of Dronacharya: In the Mahabharata, Dronacharya is a legendary teacher who trains the Pandavas and Kauravas in the art of warfare. Dronacharya’s childhood friend, Drupada, becomes the King of Panchala and betrays him. This betrayal drives Dronacharya to seek revenge. Using his position as a teacher, Dronacharya trains the Pandavas, ensuring that they become skilled warriors. When the Kurukshetra War breaks out, Dronacharya uses his influence over his students to achieve his revenge. However, in the end, he faces a moral dilemma when his loyalty to his students conflicts with his desire for revenge.
The Lesson: The story of Dronacharya illustrates the power of a teacher’s influence over their students. Dronacharya’s ability to shape the Pandavas into formidable warriors is a testament to the transformative potential of educators. However, it also serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of using this power for the greater good rather than personal vendettas.
Indian Philosophy: Indian thought emphasizes the guru-shishya (teacher-disciple) relationship as sacred. It teaches that knowledge is the greatest wealth, and teachers are the gatekeepers of this wealth. The guru is revered as a guiding light, and students are encouraged to approach their teachers with humility and devotion.
...knowledge is the greatest wealth, and teachers are the gatekeepers of this wealth. Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023 23
The Silent Scream The Vanishing Autonomy of Educators By Rivette Pena In the hallowed halls of education, a silent struggle is playing out—one that echoes the sentiments of countless teachers yearning for the return of the respect and autonomy they once held. The vibrant tapestry of creativity that once adorned the classrooms is gradually being replaced by a standardized, scripted education that leaves little room for innovation. As the winds of change sweep through our schools, it’s time to ask: What is happening to our educators, and what is the antidote to this encroaching malaise?
The decline in respect for teachers is not just disheartening; it’s a symptom of a deeper malady that threatens the very essence of education.
The Robotic Reckoning Imagine a classroom where creativity is curtailed, and spontaneity is squashed. Welcome to the world of scripted teaching, where educators are handed pre-packaged lessons that leave little room for personal flair. It’s a troubling trend that transforms teachers into mere conduits of information, reciting lines like actors in a play.
The Respect Conundrum Once upon a time, teachers were revered as the architects of knowledge, guiding young minds through the labyrinth of learning. Parents and administrators alike would tip their hats to these pedagogical wizards, recognizing the unique skills and dedication they brought to the classroom. Fast forward to today, and the narrative has shifted. Teachers find themselves caught in a crossfire of disrespect, a barrage from parents and administrators alike. Gone are the days when educators were viewed as partners in the educational journey. Now, they are often treated as mere cogs in a bureaucratic machine, expected to toe the line and deliver information according to preordained scripts.
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This robotic approach not only stifles the joy of teaching but also hampers the learning experience for students. Education should be a dynamic exchange, a lively dance between teacher and pupil, not a rigid recitation of memorized lines. The question is, how did we get here, and is there a way back to the days of educational liberation?
Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
The Cry for Autonomy Teachers, like any professionals, thrive when given the autonomy to shape their craft. Just as artists flourish with a blank canvas, educators shine when allowed to infuse their lessons with creativity, adapting to the unique needs of their students. The answer to the declining state of respect and autonomy lies in unleashing the creative forces that make teaching an art. Imagine a world where teachers are trusted to design their lessons, incorporating real-world examples, innovative projects, and interactive activities. Picture a system where educators are not bound by rigid scripts but are encouraged to tailor their teaching to the diverse needs of their students. This is not a utopian dream but a vision for a reinvigorated education system—one that recognizes and respects the expertise and passion teachers bring to the table.
fostering open communication with teachers, acknowledging the challenges they face, and understanding the importance of a dynamic, engaging learning environment.
In the renaissance of education, teachers must reclaim their role as the artists of enlightenment, guiding students through the wonders of knowledge with passion and creativity. The script may provide a framework, but it is the educator who breathes life into the words, transforming a lesson into a symphony of learning. The answer to the declining state of respect and autonomy for teachers is not found in restraint and conformity but in the celebration of diversity, creativity, and the unwavering belief that education is not a script to be recited but a vibrant tapestry to be woven. It’s time to release the shackles and let the educators shine once more, guiding the next generation with the wisdom that comes from the heart, not the script.
The Renaissance of Education The answer to the conundrum lies in a collective effort to reimagine education as a dynamic, evolving entity. Parents, administrators, and educators must unite in a shared vision—one that values the unique contributions of teachers and fosters an environment where creativity can flourish. Administrators can play a pivotal role by empowering teachers with the autonomy to shape their curriculum, encouraging collaboration, and recognizing the diverse talents within their teaching staff. Parents, too, can contribute by Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023 25
Brown Bagging It
Pretzel Cookies INGREDIENTS •
21 bag waffle or holiday-shaped pretzels
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1 bag holiday M&M’s plain or peanut butter chocolate candies
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1 12-oz bag Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Kisses
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 170 degrees. 2. Open the bags of pretzels and remove all the unbroken pretzels. 3. Place them on waxed paper-lined cookie sheets in a single layer. 4. Unwrap Hershey’s Kisses, place one on each pretzel, repeat for an entire cookie sheet. 5. Place cookie sheet in the preheated oven and “bake” for six minutes. 6. Immediately upon removing from the oven, place one M-n-M on top of semi-melted Hershey’s Kiss. 7. Place entire cookie sheet in refrigerator until cookies are set. 8. Place in cute holiday bags or on a cookie tray for your guests to enjoy!. 9. Enjoy!
Credit: https://www.thewickednoodle.com/easy-christmas-cookies/
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Unleash Your Holiday Superpowers A Teacher’s Guide to Surviving December Madness Welcome, fearless educators, to the most exhilarating and chaotic time of the year – December! As the holiday season descends upon us like a whirlwind of tinsel and joy, teachers everywhere are gearing up for the grand finale of the semester. Buckle up, because we’ve got the ultimate survival guide to not only make it through December but to thrive in the midst of the festive frenzy.
3. Tame the Grading Monster: Let’s face it, the grading mountain can be daunting. Divide and conquer! Break down your grading into manageable chunks, reward yourself with a hot cocoa break, and conquer those essays and assignments like the grading superhero you are.
1. Embrace the Chaos: December is not the time for rigid lesson plans and unwavering schedules. Embrace the chaos and turn it into a learning opportunity. Let your creativity run wild with holiday-themed lessons that sneak in some valuable education while your students are dreaming of sugarplum fairies.
2. Festive Classroom Decor: Transform your classroom into a winter wonderland! Dive into the magic of the season with twinkling lights, paper snowflakes, and a tree that could rival Rockefeller Center. A festive atmosphere can do wonders for everyone’s spirit, including your own.
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Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023
4. Self-Care Extravaganza:
8. Flexibility is Your Superpower:
In the hustle and bustle, don’t forget about the MVP – YOU! Treat yourself to moments of selfcare. Whether it’s a peppermint-scented bubble bath, a cozy reading nook, or a Netflix bingewatching session of your favorite holiday movies, make sure to recharge your superhero teacher powers.
Plans may change. Events may pop up. Accept it and roll with the punches. Being flexible is your December superpower. Adaptability will not only save your sanity but make you the superhero of the holiday season.
9. Engage in Collaborative Cheer: 5. Holiday-Themed Brain Breaks: Incorporate festive brain breaks into your daily routine. A quick round of “Santa Says” or a dance party to holiday tunes can rejuvenate both you and your students. Remember, a happy teacher is a jolly teacher!
6. Embrace the Ugly Sweater Phenomenon: ‘Tis the season for outrageous fashion choices! Declare an Ugly Sweater Day in your classroom. Let your students showcase their most eyewateringly fabulous holiday sweaters and join in the fashion spectacle. Laughter is the best medicine for surviving December mayhem.
7. Secret Santa Teacher Edition: Form a secret Santa alliance with your colleagues. Surprise each other with small, thoughtful gestures that spread joy without breaking the bank. A little holiday cheer goes a long way when you know someone’s got your back.
Join forces with your fellow teachers. Collaborate on holiday-themed activities and share the load. Teamwork makes the dream work, and together you can create magical moments that make December memorable for everyone.
10. Reflect and Celebrate: Take a moment to reflect on your achievements throughout the year. Celebrate the progress you and your students have made. End the semester on a positive note by recognizing the victories, big and small, that have made your teaching journey special.
Surviving December as a teacher is not just about making it through; it’s about embracing the festive fervor and turning it into a magical experience for both you and your students. So, don your holiday cape, channel your inner elf, and let the December adventure begin! May your classrooms be merry, and your spirits be bright. Happy teaching! Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 17 , December 2023 29
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Kelsey Rodriguez StarConsultant
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