Podcast

How I Used Dismissal Time to Hold Students Accountable

This is an impromptu, rehabilitation strategy.  I thought of on the fly.  When you need an immediate consequence and you don’t want to hold an after school detention, this may be just the ticket.

How I Used Instrumentals to Create a Positive Work Environment

This episode explains how I used music to foster a calm working environment.   It is helpful during times of the year when it was most difficult to hold to student attention.

One of 11 Never Evers

This is one of those caveats you always keep in the back of your mind during your career as a teacher. Never leave your students unprepared and when you are absent.

When I Am Finished Chart

This is an easy to implement procedure that can be used when students finish an assignment early.  It is an old goodie that I learned from one of my colleague’s who taught primary students.

Create a Bathroom Procedure

Students will ask this question on the first day of school and the last day.  Why not make it non verbal.

Tell Your Students How to Be Successful, EVERYDAY

The most critical part of your lesson to use before, during and after teaching. 

Establish a Personal Calm Plan

Carve out your chill, get away, and fun time just for you and your peace of mind.

Phone A Friend

I got this from the TV show, “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”  When a student is having a difficult time, give them the chance to talk to a friend.

Pre Spring Break Plans

Be proactive when the students start to get antsy.  Download a copy of my plan from the Resource page. 

Do Not Engage Students When They Attack You Personally

Don’t take it personal.  This is the hardest thing to do because you immediately want to go into defensive mode.   

Respect for the Engineer and the Building Maintenance Staff

Although they don’t work with students directly, they keep the building in shape and running.

You Got Jokes?

Just for laughs, just for fun.  7 Reasons Not to Mess with Children

Types of Parent Conferences and Documentation

How and when to use an informal and formal conference. Plus, a road map to keep your meeting flowing.

Everyone Does Not Like Sarcasm, Use It Wisely

Never use sarcasm to demean or belittle students.  Examples included.

The Importance of Specialist Teachers

Make them feel like they are apart of your team by keeping them informed.

Resist End of the Year Backsliding

Remain consistent by reinforcing your rules and procedures.

Just for Fun

This is an urban legend of Pacific Palisades High School answering machine message.

Plans for the End of the Year for Promotional Grades

Elaborate plans for these special days, keep in mind for next year.

Activities for the End of the Year

Ideas to keep your students on task and engaged.

Start to Close Down Your Room

Don’t stop teaching, just start to organize.