Venting to colleagues is normal. It’s healthy. It relieves stress. It puts things into perspective. It reminds you that all teachers have experienced the same frustrations. But if you have a particular student in mind, it’s also fraught with danger. If you’re not careful, … Read more
Sometimes it will occur to you right away, within the first week of school. Sometimes it may take a few weeks. But if one day you realize that your class isn’t very nice—to you or to each other—it can be disheartening. It can be … Read more
There are many potential causes of teacher stress. Test scores, performance reviews, and administrative observations. Meetings, trainings, and other demands on your time. Parents and grading, planning and rainy days, and students far below grade level. All while juggling life outside of school. But … Read more
Here at SCM we believe in bringing a spirit of fun to your classroom every day of the week. We believe in smiles and laughter, silly dances and funny accents. We believe in amusing stories, engaging activities, and enjoying students with no strings attached. … Read more
A friend emailed me this week to share a story about his son’s first week of school. Evidently some of his classmates were misbehaving, and in response the teacher kept the entire class in for recess. This isn’t an unusual strategy. We often hear … Read more
It’s a popular strategy. You notice two students talking and giggling during a lesson, for example. So you move into their field of vision and give them “the look.” You deliver the old evil eye. You communicate with your piercing stare and tight lips … Read more
One of the many benefits of exceptional classroom management is that it saves time. With far fewer disruptions, you’re free to focus on student learning. You’re free to teach and inspire and build influential relationships. You’re free to recede into the background just to … Read more
The parents don’t care. You work in a tough neighborhood. You get no support from administration. Your students have no accountability at home. You have Chase or Karla or Anthony in your class this year. You had a sub yesterday. Your class size is … Read more