The ABC's High School Teachers Really Need to Know

Please listen to this episode for your students, for your school, and for yourself.  In order to be successful, educators MUST look backward as much as they look forward.  This is one of the most crucial aspects of classroom success, but unfortunately, it is also one of the most overlooked and underutilized.  This combination is devastating to learners.   

We have said it many times.  Educators have to focus on understanding where students are on their academic journeys and building consistency BEFORE driving improvement, starting a new unit, etc.  Consistency, comprehensive/cumulative approaches, and a firm foundation of knowledge and skills will allow for enduring learning.  

In this episode, we talk about the importance of advocating for students and teachers beyond our classroom walls.  We are important in creating policy, driving positive change, and improving academic outcomes.  Educators know that...we just wish the rest of the world knew it.  

If you are looking for a way to bridge gaps in learning or extend learning opportunities for your students, you should absolutely take the time to listen to this week's episode.  Effective teachers know that when it comes to student ownership and success, individualized learning is key.  

We are back for Season 7!  Sometimes we look in the mirror and get down about the wrinkles and scars we see.  In this episode, we talk about the importance of those wrinkles and scars in who you are as a person and as an educator.  They tell an amazing story.  Be proud of that story.  Our kids need you, and you need you.  Thank you for being a teacher.  

Do you remember being a teenager?  The struggle is real for them.  How are we supposed to get them to focus on things like algebra, Spanish, and biology with all of THAT going on in their heads?  The good news is that the answer really comes down to what teaching has always been about:   coaching, empathizing, and leading by example.  

XL educator egos have no place in a classroom.  They undermine relationships, productivity, and learning.  They also make for bad colleagues and lifelong learners.  Instead, learn with your students and model the behaviors you want to produce.  

Watching others teach is the number one way to grow as an education professional.  Unfortunately. too many teachers and administrators fail to make it a priority.  If you don't observe others, you miss out on valuable perspective, ideas, and growth.  You also inevitably underserve your students.  

For educators, a few things in this world are certain - death, taxes, and the undeniable teacher truths mentioned in this week's episode.  Remember, as an educator, you are never alone.  Connect and collaborate with the amazing people in our field.  In addition to making you better at your job, it will also help you find support.  

School soap operas are a real thing, and effective teachers know how to minimize their involvement.  This episode will discuss some crucial strategies that will help you be happier AND more effective as an educator in today's world.  It's time to reduce the drama!

Students have changed, along with the rest of the world.  Effective teachers don't complain - they adjust.  We have to continue to work hard to reel students back into our lessons and process.  Even better, let's not lose them at all.  This episode will offer up some crucial strategies on how to do just that.  

Effective teachers realize that underperformance is easier than putting the effort in to find success - this is the magnet at the bottom.  This magnet affects your classroom in a big way.  Start developing a "+1 mentality" and help your students develop both motivation and academic stamina.  

In the heat of conflict between students or with you, it's important to ask yourself a critical question before speaking or acting.  This practice is a major component of effective classroom (and life) management.  In this episode, we will discuss that question and so much more.