If the comments and emails from last week are any indication, there are a lot of bully principals out there. I’ve certainly met a few. They come in every size and shape, stripe and strata of education. And although their methods of torment may … Read more
This article is a long time coming. It’s been on the list of most-requested topics for several years now, and it’s high time we cover it. But it’s also been at the forefront of my mind. You see, a colleague recently tried to bully … Read more
I had the opportunity this week to observe a truly gifted teacher. She was teaching a lesson to kindergarten students, many of whom she had never met. And they were mesmerized. They were engaged and eager to follow her every direction. But what made … Read more
This has been the most requested topic so far this year. And it’s an important one. Independent practice is the most critical factor in developing academic skill and competency. Done right, it can also profoundly affect maturity, mental toughness, and enjoyment of learning. So … Read more
The most common approach to an especially difficult class is to lower the bar. It’s to let the minor stuff go. It’s to appease and tiptoe, pick your battles and keep a lid on the classroom. The idea is that if you show you’re … Read more
It’s easy to admire teachers with the gift of gab, high social IQ, and ability to build rapport so quickly. We look at them and think, “I could never do that.” And you’re probably right. But here’s the thing: You don’t have to. In … Read more
Who you are and how you carry yourself has a powerful impact on student behavior. More than most teachers realize. It’s not just about using the right classroom management strategies. It’s about whether and to the degree your students respect you and look up … Read more
This post isn’t meant to be humorous. It isn’t meant to be judgemental or hypercritical or make you feel like a failure. It’s meant to be helpful. You see, viewing classroom management through a negative lens—as in, what not to do—can bring the greatest … Read more