While observing classrooms, it’s common for me to see students staring at screens during independent reading time. Chromebooks mainly but also tablets and, in some cases, even phones. But, why? Are screens better at improving reading than actual books? Do they deepen comprehension, speed … Read more
At the end of every school year we post a report card for teachers. The purpose is to assess the extent you were able to follow the principles of Smart Classroom Management. The exercise takes just a few minutes, but the experience is invaluable. … Read more
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
Here at SCM, we talk a lot about the importance of having a vision of your ideal class. Of seeing your students, like a movie in your mind . . . focused and learning. interacting politely. following rules. performing routines. participating eagerly. working together. … Read more
When a student misbehaves, giving them a reminder or otherwise letting them off the hook can feel like the right thing to do. Because we’re compassionate. Students have a history. Some have been through a lot. Mistakes happen and we want to believe they’ll … Read more
Stress is crushing teachers, but there are things you can do to alleviate it. In fact, with a comprehensive approach, you can all but eliminate it. It’s a topic I’m hard at work developing here at SCM. (More details to follow.) But one of … Read more
Hello Amazing Teachers! On behalf of the entire SCM team, I want to say “Thank you!” Your willingness to share our website with your friends and colleagues keeps us going strong. I’m eternally grateful. 2025 marks our 16th year, and we have no intention … Read more
In the eyes of students, the following are lies: You have class rules, but don’t always follow them. You preach kindness, but don’t practice it yourself. You have deadlines, but accept late work. You promise interesting lessons, but don’t deliver. You teach routines, but … Read more