Back-to-school season is filled with preparation. Teachers spend weeks planning lessons, organizing materials, setting up classrooms, reviewing curriculum, and thinking through every detail that will help the year get off to a strong start. All of that preparation serves an…
If you’ve ever planned a direct instruction lesson and found yourself wondering, “Am I teaching a skill or a concept?” you’re not alone. Understanding the difference between procedural and declarative lessons can completely change the clarity and effectiveness of your…
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Back-to-school season means new supplies, fresh bulletin boards, and a classroom full of students who may not know each other, or you, yet. And let’s be real: upper elementary students can spot cheesys icebreaker from a mile away. They’ve done…
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Test prep season can bring a mix of excitement and stress for both students and teachers. As we get closer to the big day, it’s important to make sure students feel prepared and confident. Here are some practical and fun…
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Fun Friday is a beloved tradition in many elementary classrooms. It’s meant to be a time for students to let loose and enjoy themselves after a week of hard work. But after trying it in my own classroom, I realized…
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The weeks leading up to winter break can be tricky—students are excited, energy is high, and focus can be a challenge. But this time of year is also the perfect opportunity to bring a little magic into your lessons with…
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Parent-teacher conferences are one of the most important touchpoints between educators and families. It’s a time to connect, build relationships, and provide a clear picture of a student’s academic journey. However, these meetings can sometimes focus too heavily on areas…
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Back-to-School Night is one of the most important events in the school year for elementary teachers. It’s your chance to connect with parents, share essential information, and set the tone for a successful partnership. With so much to cover and…
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Anchor charts are a staple in many elementary classrooms, and for good reason. These visual tools not only help to document important learning goals and success criteria but also serve as interactive resources that students can refer to throughout their…
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State testing season is over, and the data is in. While you can’t rewind and adjust instruction for this year’s students, summative assessment data offers a goldmine of information to propel your teaching practices forward in the new year. Here’s…
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As the school year comes to a close, it’s time to engage students in fun and hands-on STEM activities that reinforce important concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Here are five exciting challenges to inspire your elementary school…
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