There was strong reaction to last week’s article, almost all of it good. But it left a few readers confused, even angry, especially those visiting our website for the first time. Because SCM runs counter to many long-held beliefs about classroom management. It upends … Read more
Good teachers are observant. In fact, their students swear they have eyes in the back of their head. But the truth is, they just make it a priority. They see the value in keen observation because it allows them to . . . Witness … Read more
So you’re walking down the hallway and notice the boss heading in the opposite direction. As you near, you smile and start to say hello. But they never even look up. They cruise right on past without the slightest acknowledgment. Which can make you … Read more
I’ve occasionally been asked what one piece of advice I’d give to all teachers. It’s a daunting question. Truth be told, I’d want to mention a dozen or so core areas that work together to create a productive, well-behaved classroom. (In other words, become … Read more
Before you peel out of the parking lot and into the summer sun—or even if you have already—and while it’s still fresh in your mind, it’s smart to do a quick self-evaluation. To identify the areas in which you did well this past year. … Read more
Burned-out is the worst place you can find yourself as a teacher. Exhausted, stressed, craving time off. Every day feeling like the day before. It chips away at your peace and makes you dread getting out of bed in the morning. The tendency is … Read more
Teachers who struggle with classroom management—and teaching in general—tend to be overly invested in the job. They view the profession as who they are rather than what they do. They live and die with every success or failure. They’ve bought into the lie—hook, line, … Read more
The tougher the class, the easier it is to be inconsistent. The easier it is to give in and lose control. Which is why when you have a challenging group of students you must be mentally tough. You must be, as Winston Churchill once … Read more