It doesn’t matter whether you have a week left in the school year or a single day, just like any other break, be it winter or spring, you must keep pushing the envelope. This doesn’t mean that you can’t schedule more learning games or … Read more
According to a recent article in New York magazine, nearly every student is using AI to cheat their way through college. It’s happening in high school and lower grades too. Sad and troubling, of course. But here at SCM we accept what we cannot … Read more
There are rare times when you do need to send a student to the principal. But only for the following reasons: Violence Threats of violence Weapons Drugs Fighting Continued or severe bullying In other words, anything dangerous. The reason is to protect yourself legally, … Read more
Much like teachers allowing students to listen to music when their entire focus should be on learning, this one caught me by surprise. Evidently, there are teachers sharing their personal social-media pages with students. A message from a reader clued me in. I was … Read more
Every year, I ask three or four students with natural leadership ability to be part of my leadership team. I meet with them once a week or so. It’s informal, and the meetings don’t last long. I also don’t mind if others join in. … Read more
A student breaks a common classroom rule like forgetting to raise their hand. No big deal. It happens. So you calmly give a warning. And Mount Vesuvius erupts. The student crosses their arms, glares at you, and yells, “But I didn’t do anything!” You … Read more
You have good classroom management. Your students like and respect you. They follow your directions and are attentive while you’re speaking. Yet, the second you look away, even for a brief moment, you lose them and the momentum of your lesson. You’re able to … Read more
Since the advent of the smart phone, interest in acquiring academic skill and knowledge has dwindled. This is undeniably true. Kids spend hour upon hour scrolling hits of dopamine and it’s crushed their desire to learn. Even worse, once their phones are put away … Read more