I may ruffle some feathers with this week’s article. But it’s a critical topic, and thus worth taking the heat. Last week, I detailed how to not quit teaching. If you haven’t yet read the article, I recommend doing so before continuing. In that … Read more
Four of every ten new teachers leave the profession within five years. That is a staggering number. It’s made all the more alarming given that teacher shortages in the US are expected to exceed 300,000 by 2020. Although low starting pay, large class sizes, … Read more
The gray area occurs when you witness behavior you don’t like. —But are uncertain whether or not it breaks a class rule. The problems associated with gray areas are legion and profound. They . . . cause you to be inconsistent. compel you to … Read more
It’s common for teachers to have blind spots. —Areas they’re unaware of but have a negative impact on classroom management. Being perceived by students as a pushover is a prime example. They all know it. But the teacher doesn’t have a clue. This is … Read more
Classical music has many wonderful benefits for the classroom. Studies have shown that it can . . . reduce stress and anxiety. improve memory. increase productivity. enhance concentration. raise well-being. spark creativity. I like to put the music on as students are entering the … Read more
“Knowing what must be done does away with fear.” -Rosa Parks Consistency is everything to your success. Because, if you’re wishy-washy, if you let things go and fail to follow through on your promises— Then your students won’t trust you. They won’t listen to … Read more
It’s a common practice. One teachers have been doing since time immemorial. A student breaks a class rule and you write their name on the board. Check marks follow any further transgression. It’s a simple way of keeping track of consequences that also acts … Read more
No, your class isn’t terrible. They’re just silly, unfocused, excitable. In a word, crazy. It’s frustrating because you’ve been over your classroom management plan again and again. And they do get it. In fact, individually they’re great kids. It’s just, as a group they … Read more