Before rushing headlong into summer, it’s instructive to take a look back. To reflect on what went well during the past school year and what didn’t. Because, unless you know where you need to improve, you’re destined to experience the same frustrations year after … Read more
Teaching is getting harder every year. There is no doubt about it. I’ve heard from thousands of teachers since I began this blog seven years ago. I also speak to teachers from around the world as part of my coaching practice. And I still … Read more
Here at SCM, we’d like to extend our deepest thanks. We appreciate you and the wonderful support we receive throughout the year. We’re truly grateful for the opportunity to help you improve your classroom. We’re especially excited about 2016. The new book, The Happy … Read more
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
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
It’s not often I’m surprised by an email. But a couple years ago I received one from a teacher who wouldn’t hold students accountable unless he had what he described as “proof.” Unless he had witnesses to back him up, or an outright admission … Read more