Accountability Practices During Independent Work Time
A 5th-grade teacher has just started small group instruction in the back of the classroom. He has set the expectation that the remainder of the class is to work in groups of 3-4 to collaboratively develop a solution to two math tasks. As he ushers those in his small group through work that is specific […]
Technology Tools to Gather Data for Do Nows and Exit Tickets
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, technology has become an invaluable ally for teachers seeking to enhance engagement and interactivity in the classroom. This blog post explores the advantages of using four tech tools – Quizziz, Pear Deck, NearPod, and Go Formative – when implementing Do Nows, Exit Tickets, and interactive lessons. By incorporating these […]
Enhancing Student Engagement Through Individual Check-Ins: A Pathway to Student Ownership
When was the last time you met one-on-one with your students to discuss their academic progress? Could your students effectively articulate their strengths and areas for growth if questioned? If your responses lean towards infrequent or never, you might be overlooking a potent strategy for fostering student ownership of their learning journey. The National Institute […]
One, Two, Three All Eyes on Me: The Power of Visual Connection
Student engagement is a primary focus of my work. When entering classrooms, I often observe teachers giving directions and delivering instruction while students have their heads down, writing, drawing, or basically looking anywhere but at the teacher. When addressed, the response I often hear is, “Well, some students can look distracted and still be listening.” […]
Leadership Confessions
Sometimes, the pressure for school leaders to know all the answers is overwhelming. Most of us have been taught that to be a good leader we have to lead from the front, never alongside and never behind those we serve. As a teacher, I would often tell my students, “I don’t know the answer to […]
Rocking Teacher Feedback: There Are Levels to This
Let’s dive into teacher feedback – a powerful tool in nurturing our teachers and fostering a school that learns. Like sports coaching strategies, effective feedback can be the key to transforming a good teacher into a great one. Let’s explore the three crucial levels that can impact teaching practices and enhance student learning while understanding how each level […]
The Power of Leader and Coach Alignment: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success
In schools across our country, instructional coaches work to ensure each of their teachers get the support they need to be successful for students. School leaders are uniquely positioned to provide structure and explicit coaching to these folks, to ensure coach effectiveness as well as their feedback alignment. The steps below support an intentional relationship […]
S.A.F.E Schools
By: SJT School safety training is a topic that has become increasingly important to school leaders. Leaders are accountable for securing the safety of scholars, staff, and other community members who are on campus. There could be several emergencies that can occur in a school, ranging in severity from internal violent threats to the school […]
Feedback for Immediate Impact Part 2
Feedback for Immediate Impact (Part 2) In Part 1, we discussed the transformative nature of leaders delivering in-the-moment feedback to teachers. We even shared some examples of how you might provide this type of efficient and meaningful guidance. In Part 2, we will look at the key components for leaders to consider before they begin […]
Feedback for Immediate Impact Part 1
Feedback for Immediate Impact (Part 1) The Importance of Quality Feedback One of the most powerful tools a school leader has is the ability to motivate their teachers through high quality feedback. An impactful coaching culture takes shape through thoughtful leader moves, consistent systems, and common language. At CT3 and through Real Time Leadership Coaching (RTLC), […]
