Why is Equity Important?
Every student comes into school with a different background, personality, skill set, interest and attitude. -Dennis Littky, Excellence Through Equity This quote resonates with me because it aligns...
View ArticleWhat’s Joy Got To Do With It? (Hint: Everything for our Students)
This summer, my son and I had the joyful experience of watching amazing athletes around the world compete in the Olympics in Rio. We love basketball, in particular, and were in awe of seeing our NBA...
View ArticleThe Gift of this Joyful Time of Year
December is an exciting time in schools, and I especially enjoy sharing celebrations with my students. The joy of the holiday season is a great way to honor students and incorporate their cultures...
View ArticleLife-Long Learning Begins With You!
In speaking with various educators throughout my career, many say they want to “create life-long learners.” Educational mission statements, including our own for Virginia Beach City Public Schools,...
View ArticleStretching Your Learning Budget
If only I could stick to my budget! How many times have you uttered those words, promised yourself you’d get on track, let one bill go so another could get paid? Image courtesy of Pixabay Every so...
View ArticleDear New Teacher
Dear New Teacher, It is the night before the first day of school, and I imagine you are excited, maybe a little anxious, and most of all hopeful. It is easy to imagine because you will feel this way...
View ArticleCreating a Student-Centered Learning Environment
Virginia Beach Schools has many educators moving the work of personalized learning forward in their classrooms and schools. Throughout the year we will be featuring how several educators make the work...
View ArticleWould You Rather Take a Bus or a Dinosaur to School?
“Would you rather take a bus or a dinosaur to school?” This was the question posed to students in Mrs. Tonna Harris’ second grade class at Creeds Elementary School during a sharing activity in a recent...
View ArticleTime Bought Back
During a recent visit to John B. Dey Elementary School, I asked twenty-five students, first through fifth grade, to explain how they feel as a result of participating in Morning Meetings. Twenty-five...
View ArticleTwo Notes, One Song: The Harmony of Responsive Classroom and PBIS
In response to the VBCPS Strategic Framework Compass to 2020: Charting the Course, schools throughout the school division are adopting Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS), a...
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