How to Set Up Magnetic Letter Boards for Phonics Instruction Letter boards are a simple, effective tool to support explicit, hands-on phonics instruction. Whether you’re working one-on-one, in a small group, or during independent centers, having a ready-to-go board can make word building seamless and engaging. Let’s walk through exactly
Parent-teacher conferences are just around the corner, and while they can feel a little overwhelming, they don’t have to be! With a little preparation, you can walk into those meetings feeling confident and ready to have meaningful conversations with parents. Whether it’s your first round of conferences or you’re a
Setting expectations doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, with a little planning, it can be a fun and rewarding part of starting the school year. As we gear up for another exciting year with our energetic elementary schoolers, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork for a positive
As teachers, we know that returning from a break can feel a bit chaotic. However, it’s also an excellent opportunity to refresh everyone’s memory and set the tone for the rest of the academic year. By reconnecting and reviewing routines with your students, you can ensure that everyone is on
Hey there, elementary educators! If you’re anything like me, you’re getting pumped up for an amazing school year ahead. And what better way to kick things off than with the best first week ever? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie teacher, a solid plan will help you start
As teachers, the start of a new school year can bring feelings of excitement and anticipation – but also anxiety. The first few days tend to be hectic as everyone gets back in the swing of things; however, there are several steps you can take beforehand to make the transition
Are you looking for ways to manage your classroom and create an environment that’s safe and conducive to learning? Good classroom management not only helps minimize disruptions but also promotes a positive learning atmosphere. Luckily, there are several approaches that have been successful in encouraging students’ academic development. In this
It can feel challenging to maintain a clean classroom. But, a tidy environment is essential for both the teacher and the students. It’s important to have a space that is conducive to learning, and it’s also important to be respectful of the people who will be spending time there. Fortunately,
Yawning, heads down, staring off into space. No, this isn’t just teachers in professional development. Our students struggle to stay engaged and attentive every single day. Sometimes it may feel like we have to do jumping jacks in a clown suit to keep their attention. And, even then, they will
The end of the day during dismissal was one of my least favorite times of the school day ever. I don’t know about your school but our dismissal time is 20ish minutes. Those 20 minutes feel more like 3 hours sometimes (especially on a Friday). Problem is, I’m totally worn out from the
