Old Teacher Learning New Tricks
Students and Classrooms have changed a lot in 24 years. Join me as I learn the new tricks of today’s classrooms.
When Did Teaching Require Three Logins Before 8 a.m.?
When did teaching start requiring three logins and a system reboot before homeroom? A veteran teacher vents (with humor) and shares real-life strategies for surviving the digital overload.
I'm a Veteran Teacher. Here's What Actually Helped Me Improve.
After 25 years in the classroom, I finally figured out what actually helped me grow — and no, it wasn’t more PD hours. Here’s what really made me better.
Relearning How to Teach Reading—Again
After 25 years in the classroom, I’ve seen the reading pendulum swing too many times to count. Here's how I'm navigating the Science of Reading movement without tossing out everything that worked.
What I Still Get Wrong After All These Years
Even after 25 years in the classroom, I still make mistakes—some small, some surprisingly persistent. Here’s what I keep getting wrong, and why I think that might be the point.
25 Years of Teaching and I Still Can’t Get the Copy Machine to Work
After 25 years in the classroom, I can manage just about everything—except the copy machine. Here’s a humorous look at one teacher's ongoing battle with technology, paper jams, and misplaced pride.
Constructivism? Direct Instruction? Just Tell Me What Works.
After 25 years in the classroom, I’ve tried it all—constructivism, direct instruction, inquiry-based, project-based, you name it. Here's what actually works (and what just sounds good in a PD slideshow).
Google Classroom Didn’t Come With a Manual—So I Made One
Google Classroom was supposed to make teaching easier—but no one gave us directions. After trial, error, and a few panicked moments, I made my own manual. Here's what every teacher needs to know.
I Taught Before Smartboards: What’s Actually Worth Updating?
After 25 years in the classroom, I've seen trends come and go (and come back with new names). Here's what I've learned about which modern updates are worth it—and which ones are just noise.
The Veteran Teacher’s Guide to Staying Relevant: Embracing Change Without Losing Yourself
Teaching is changing faster than ever—but your experience is still your greatest asset. Learn how to stay relevant as a veteran teacher by blending your strengths with new approaches like the Science of Reading and math discourse.
Demystifying the Science of Reading for Veteran Teachers: What It Really Means and How to Get Started
The Science of Reading might sound intimidating, but it’s actually a powerful way to refine your teaching. Learn what it really means, why it matters for veteran teachers, and how to start integrating it into your classroom—without throwing out everything you know.
Reflecting Back to Move Forward: A Teacher’s Guide to Reflecting on the Past Year to Prepare for the Next School Year
As the school year comes to a close, it’s the perfect moment for teachers to pause and reflect. What went well? What didn’t? And how can we use those insights to prepare for a year ahead that’s even more joyful and effective? In this post, we explore key questions and strategies to guide you through the reflective process, helping you close one chapter and confidently step into the next.
Why Old-School Classroom Management Just Doesn’t Cut It Anymore
Even the most experienced teachers need to rethink classroom management. Discover why today’s classrooms require a fresh approach—and how to adapt your strategies while honoring your expertise.
A Teacher’s Guide To Summer Self Care: Recharging for the Year Ahead
Teachers, it's time to prioritize YOU! Discover 10 self-care tips to help you recharge this summer, from taking restful breaks to reconnecting with your passions, so you can return to the classroom feeling refreshed and ready for the new school year.
Celebrating Diversity: An Overview of American Heritage Months
Celebrate diversity in your classroom with our comprehensive guide to American Heritage Months. Learn how to honor Black History, Women’s History, Hispanic Heritage, Native American Heritage, and more through thematic lessons, multimedia resources, and inclusive activities. Engage your students with rich cultural histories and contributions, fostering an environment of understanding and inclusivity.
Embracing Change in Reading Education. Why can’t we have the best of both worlds?
Phonics, Science of Reading, Whole Language, Balanced Literacy, Direct Instruction…what should teachers o?