For Educators Archives

How Teachers Can Check the Culture of a School Before Applying
- For Educators, School Culture
I don’t know about you, but a school’s culture is everything to me! ⁣It influences your happiness and your students’ success.
⁣If your searching for a new campus, listen to how you can get a feel of a school’s culture before you apply.⁣
For more tips and tools to help you find your dream job, grab The How To Land Your Dream Teaching Job Workbook.

RELATED BLOG POSTS
How Teachers Can Find Their Dream Teaching Job
5 Virtual Interview Tips For Teachers
How Teachers Can Prepare For Their Job Search In 7 Days Or Less
3 Ways Teachers Can Prepare to Change Schools
3 Reasons Why Teachers Should Attend Job Fairs
How Teachers Can Build Their Confidence During Their Job Search

Continue Reading
How Teachers Can Find Their Dream Teaching Job
- For Educators, Job Hunt
Are you looking for the teaching job of your dreams? Check out the video for tips to help you land the teaching job of your dreams. Grab the How to Land Your Dream Teaching Job Workbook to get more tips and tools to get the perfect job for you!

Related Posts

Continue Reading
Do You Boo! Why I’m Keeping it Simple in My Digital Classroom
- Classroom TIps, For Educators
I’m a creative teacher. I’m always trying to figure out how to make my class more engaging. Lately, with everything going on, I still have that creativity flowing through me, but I’m choosing not to put it into my digital classroom. To give you some background about me, I’m a fifth-grade reading, language arts, and social studies teacher. My students are pretty independent but are struggling in our new setting.
Here’s an example of my weekly schedule. The read aloud is for reading, the BrainPOP video is for social studies, and the writing prompt is for language arts. Raz-Kids and IXL are optional assignments.
I’m giving my students a total of 45 minutes of work each day. I’m keeping it pretty simple in my digital classroom for several reasons, mainly because our students didn’t sign up for online learning. We are going through a pandemic, and we all have been thrown into an unexpected, chaotic mess. I’m learning; it is entirely irrational to finish this school year with the same expectations as if we were still in a physical classroom.
I also didn’t sign up to be a digital teacher. Of course, I’m giving my 100%. I’m a tech-savvy teacher, but I realized this is not how I want to implement those skills, especially when it isn’t equitable for my students.
This blog post is about how I feel about my digital classroom. If you’re assigning hours of work, buying digital lessons, spending hours creating digital lessons, that’s your business, and do you boo. I’m doing what is best for my students and me. Here’s why simplicity is the route for me.
Students Should Be Able To Complete Assignments Independently
Before the schools closed, my students were on different levels, and of course, that hasn’t changed. Some students have parents or older siblings that can help them at home. Some of my students are new to the United States, and their entire family is learning English. I have parents who are working from home and parents that are essential workers. Long story short, I don’t want to assign complicated lessons that aren’t accessible to all of my students.
I’m pretty active on Pinterest, and there are tons of digital activities popping up everywhere, I haven’t seen a single one that is advertised as differentiated. So this means, if I were to buy those products, I’d still need to differentiate them somehow.
In my mind, it makes more sense for me to create things that I know all of my students can do. For example, I know all of my students can listen to me read a book. I know that students can respond to a creative writing prompt (even my ELL can write a sentence or two). I know they can all watch a BrainPOP video.
Parents are doing the best that they can; some are overwhelmed and stressed. I want to make my lessons simple enough so that the kids are still learning, but students can do them independently.
Unplanned Online Learning is Inequitable
Last week students at my school had the opportunity to get devices, and some were lucky enough to get a hotspot. I’ve used a hotspot before, and sometimes they can be flaky. They’re a temporary fix for when you don’t have internet access. So, that means websites may load quickly one day and slowly the next.
Think about if there are multiple kids at home using one hotspot. While I would love to take advantage of all of these free websites that are available right now, I don’t think it would be a good idea for my students who don’t have consistent internet access. There are some great websites available for free right now (and I LOVE that companies have stepped up to help), but I don’t think it would be fair for my students who are already struggling to get online, even if it is just one.
My school also made sure that families who requested devices received at least one, so not every child in a family got their own. In some households, multiple students are using one device. I can only imagine trying to manage who and when each child gets to use the device. Creating a technology schedule can be a complicated task for me, but imagine trying to plan it out when each child has hours of work to complete.
I Want to Make Sure I’m Not Overworking
I don’t know about any of you, but I feel like I’m working harder at home than I was in my classroom. I’ve had to find some boundaries. Just because I’m working from home, doesn’t mean I want to work a bunch of extra hours that I wouldn’t typically work.
My district made a schedule that clearly says we get a break and planning time, but I spend most of my day interacting with students or parents. I barely have time to create my simple lessons for the week. I don’t have time to do more. Sure, I could create bomb interactive lessons that look amazing, but I don’t want to work off the clock to get it done.
I Know My Students
I’m going to say this as nicely as possible. I have THE most unmotivated students I’ve EVER HAD this school year. You know you shouldn’t listen to what the previous teachers say about students, right? Everyone deserves a fresh start, but y’all they weren’t lying or exaggerating! It’s been a challenging school year. As a whole, it has been a struggle consistently getting quality work from them. Moving from a physical classroom to a digital classroom hasn’t changed them. They are still the unmotivated crew lol.
I’ve created fun and engaging activities all school year that have left me frustrated when only my usual few get it done. Lack of technology has made digital learning difficult for some, but many of my students are the same unmotivated children I looked at with frustration daily lol!
I will not frustrate myself by creating the elaborate plans, and only a sprinkle of my students get it done. I’m just being 100% real.
I Was About to Do The Most, But Then…
Before I realized I needed to chill out, I had big plans in my head. Remember, I’m tech-savvy. But, I had a few situations that made me realize, now is not the time to flex those skills.
I was planning on doing weekly Zoom meetings with my students until I found out it caused a lot of confusion and frustration with the parents. I have 48 students, and only 9 attended my first Zoom. When the meeting was over, my inbox was full of parent emails saying that they were having issues logging on to the platform. Some parents contacted our parent liaison because they were worried that their child missed the meeting. My students were blowing me up on Google Classroom. Our Zoom meeting did not turn out as I had hoped.
Some other things I didn’t realize until I logged on to Zoom was that parents had to stop what they were doing to help students log in. If parents are working from home, my Zoom meeting was taking away from their work. I didn’t think about that at all. My students with parents that couldn’t step away from their work to get their child set up on Zoom missed out, which is unfair. I wasn’t making this experience as fun as I thought I was.
I was also giving out awards (by email) for students who were getting all their work done. I created a really cute certificate, email template for parents, and I planned on making weekly video announcements.
Then I got a DM from an Instagram friend; she was upset that her son’s kindergartner teacher was publicly shouting out kids who did all of their work, which included the optional assignments. She was upset because she was doing the best she could while working from home. They were completing the mandatory work, but she didn’t have time to complete the extra assignments.
I was doing the same thing as her child’s teacher. I thought it was an excellent way to motivate my students. I had no idea how it would make parents feel. Yes, I have older students, and they should be able to get their work done independently, but I realized now is not the time to have competitions when everyone’s home life is different. So, I stopped. The last thing I want to do is make parents feel like they aren’t doing a good job. I need them right now.
It has taken me a few weeks to understand what is going on. I decided last week to let go of everything I can’t control. Nobody is ending the school year how they expected, so I decided to let it all go.
I love going all out in my classroom, but I realized that right now isn’t the time. I’m honestly just thankful that I’m still able to read to my students daily. My book hoarding finally paid off. To see my basic lesson plans, check me out on Instagram. If you’re going all out in your digital classroom, do your thang boo, it’s just not for me.

RELATED BLOG POSTS
HOW ELEMENTARY TEACHERS CAN REMOTELY DIFFERENTIATE READING USING RAZ-KIDS
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL STUDENTS
HOW TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL STUDENTS

Continue Reading
How Elementary teachers can remotely differentiate Reading Using Raz-Kids
- Classroom TIps, For Educators
Are you looking for a way to differentiate your reading class remotely? It is possible with Learning A-Z’s Raz-Kids.
If your school does not have a subscription, that’s okay! The Learning A-Z family is offering free subscriptions for the rest of the school year. Raz-Kids is an excellent way to differentiate reading in your digital classroom! Keep reading to find out why.
You Can Assign Leveled Books
I’m sure you know all about Learning A-Z’s printable books. But, you can assign those same books digitally. I like to assign books below, on, and above students’ reading levels. By assigning multiple levels, you give students more opportunities to practice, which results in student growth.
You Can Assign Audiobooks
Raz-Kids gives you an option that allows the program to read books to students. I love using this feature because, when I assign books that are above their reading level, it will enable the students to hear and see all the words first. As the computer reads the book, each word is highlighted so the students can easily follow along.
You Can Assign Running Records
If you want to check your students’ progress, then you can assign running records. Once you assign the running record, it goes straight to the student. When the student gets the assessment, they will record themselves reading the book or passage, and then it gets sent back to you! I have a YouTube Tutorial if you want to check it out!
You Can Assign Sight Word Testing
Have you’ve been working on sight words this year? Well, you can still have students practice their words. Give them the words you want them to practice and then assign them a High-Frequency Word Assessment to track students’ progress.
You Can Address Foundational Skills
If this unexpected break in school interrupted your phonic lessons, use Raz to keep going. There are books for decoding, letter recognition, and other phonic skills.
You Can Assign Fluency Practice
What elementary teacher isn’t looking for fluency practice? If you’re looking for an opportunity to have students to practice fluency, you can assign poems, songs, and rhyming books.
Student growth doesn’t have to stop. Check out my Raz-Kids tutorials to see if it’s the program for you (I already know it is).

Related Blog Posts

Continue Reading
5 Virtual Interview Tips for Teachers
- For Educators, Job Hunt
Virtual interviews have become more prevalent in the educational world, especially now. I did my first virtual interview in 2015; I was living in Chicago and was hoping to move back to Dallas. So, I started applying to various schools in the Dallas area, and eventually, I snagged an interview and got the job.
During my last job search, I did a few virtual interviews for districts as screeners. The screeners were available for administrators throughout the district, and admin would watch to screen who they wanted to meet in-person. I prepared for my official interview and screener interviews in the same way. Use the following tips to ensure your next virtual experience is a success!
Dress Professionally
Yes, it’s online, and all the interview panel will be able to see is your top. But, dressing professionally from head to toe helps put you into character. Although it seems like your interview is casual, it’s not. It’s still essential that you look the part. And what happens if you have to stand up?
Find a Quiet Place
For me, it’s easy because I’m single with no kids. I only have to mute my television and silence my phone. But most of you have children, pets, or other family members that live with you that would make finding a quiet place much harder. Make your kids go outside, give them a device, or put on their favorite movie. Pets should be out of view, lock the door or give them their favorite treats lol. The adults in your house should be much easier to convince. Should be lol.
Find A Well Lit Area
The panel needs to be able to see you! Set up where you are facing a window. The back of the computer should face the window. Add more lighting if it’s not a sunny day. If you can’t set up near a window, bring in extra lamps.
Keep Notes Nearby
One of the advantages of doing a virtual interview is that you can have notes for your talking points nearby. During interviews, I get so nervous I forget things that I want to share. Don’t write paragraphs, but jot down notes to help you remember your talking points. If you grab the How to Land Your Dream Teaching Job Workbook, you’ll have answers to the frequently asked questions already planned out.
Take notes
If this is your first virtual interview, it may make you more nervous than usual. You’ll probably forget important topics you discussed shortly after your meeting. So, during the interview, you’ll want to take notes. Why? Because when you follow up, you’ll want to mention topics that were discussed. For example, if they said they were looking for someone who is a team player and works well with others, then you’ll want to mention that in your follow up letter or email.
The panel will conduct tons of interviews for positions throughout their campus, your job is to stand out and make them remember you.
Virtual interviews may be a new experience for some, but they don’t have to be any more stressful than your typical interview if you’re prepared. Get your FREE Virtual Interview Checklist to prepare for your big day!

Related Posts

Continue Reading
How Non-Tech Savvy Teachers Can Survive Working Remotely
- Classroom TIps, For Educators
I haven’t shared this with you all, but I’m a Google Certified Educator, Level 1. I love to integrate technology into my classroom.
I once was the Digital Ambassador for my campus. Which meant I was in charge of helping other teachers integrate technology. That position made me see that a lot of teachers struggle with using technology in the classroom, and honestly, it’s not their fault.
I’ve only worked for one district that offered professional development throughout the year on technology tools and integration. And the classes were optional. Which meant, all the tech nerds (people like me) went to the PD, and those lacking in tech integration never signed up.
Every educator is not comfortable using technology in their classroom, even the presumed tech-savvy younger teachers. This pandemic has forced teachers who don’t consistently use tech in their classrooms to start without warning. This has to be causing more stress and anxiety for many teachers.
Here are a few things non-techie teachers can do to relieve some of the pressure added to this challenging (at least for me) school year.
Be honest with parents and your administrators
Telling parents and administration that you struggle with technology is the first step you should take. Just remember being honest doesn’t give you an excuse not to learn. It just means you’re asking for grace and time to learn.
Through these conversations, I’m sure you’ll find that you’re not alone. Many parents don’t have a clue about what apps or programs are used in some classrooms. I’m sure them knowing that you’re not a tech guru will provide them with some comfort to see you’re still doing some things the “old” way.
Your administrators will appreciate this, too, even though they probably already know that technology isn’t your strong suit.
Focus on one thing at a time
Rational parents and administrators aren’t expecting things to be perfect. So, take the time to learn. Pick something to focus on each week and learn how to use it. If your district uses Google products, focus on making assignments on Forms one week and Slides the next. Play around with one program or app until you’re comfortable. You’ll never master or be great at a bunch of different apps if you don’t focus on one or two at time. And guess what, you don’t have to know how to use several apps or programs. One or two is just fine.
Don’t overwhelm yourself with multiple programs just because your teammate knows how to use them. Like that toddler in the viral video said: “worry about yourself.” That’s the only way you’ll get better. Remember, comparison is the thief of joy. Focus on the best resources that will give you the most bang for your buck and master those first!
Be willing to make mistakes and welcome support
Even when you’re a pro at integrating technology, things still don’t always turn out the way you envisioned them. You’re bound to make mistakes, and that’s the only way you’ll learn. I’m not a perfectionist, so this is the best part. Once I make a mistake, I know how to make it better next time.
Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to your more experienced teammates and instructional coaches. Don’t expect them to do it for you, but ask them how you can make something you’re already doing run smoother. Ask them what features in the program they love to use. Let them give you ideas on how to make whatever technology you prefer to use your own.
We have found ourselves in a stressful situation, and we don’t know how long it will last. If you’re uncomfortable with this drastic change, be honest, start small, and give yourself grace. Right now, remote learning is a new challenge for all K-12 educators. Take your time and do what you can.

Related Post
4 REASONS WHY ALL ELEMENTARY READING TEACHERS SHOULD USE RAZ-KIDS

Continue Reading
Tips for First-Year Teachers
- Back to School, For Educators
There are tons of blog posts for first-year teachers, and I’m adding another one to the pile! There are so many things I wish I known when I first started teaching. The tips that are below would have saved me so much money and time. Check out these tips and USE them! Trust me; you need them!
Set a budget
When I first started teaching, I went shopping monthly for my classroom. I was buying everything from decoration, rewards, resources, to last-minute science lab supplies. At the end of the month, I was left wondering where my already small paycheck had gone.
I used to spend around $60 a month. Honestly, it was probably more when I first started teaching. Now, I spend about $15 a month, and there are months I don’t spend a dime.
As a new teacher, it is easy to get caught up on what you think you need. Stores like Target found out that teachers love cute stuff, and now they have a whole area just for us. Teachers Pay Teachers is another place that will take all your coins. Most of us go there for convenience. Most of the things I’ve bought, I could’ve made. Before buying, ask yourself, is it a need or a want. Buying for convenience can be worth it sometimes, but too much can quickly add up. Be smart.
Set your schedule
After a few weeks in the classroom, you’ll notice that your to-do list is growing, and due dates are mounting. So, you’ll begin to come in early and start staying late. Some of you will even go in on the weekends. Working too many extra hours will lead you directly to burnout land.
As a new teacher, you’ll be tempted to get everything done; you’ll think giving up your personal time is the key. But it’s not. Seriously, your job will never be done, and the to-do lists will never go away. So, it is essential to create a schedule to protect your sanity.
I’m a morning person, so you’ll find me at work an hour before our start time and running out the door at dismissal. Others like to stay late. Pick what works for you and stick to it. Don’t overdo it. Try not to work on weekends. The first few years of teaching will be the hardest, and some teachers make it worse by spending too much of their personal time doing work that will go away.
Ask Questions
If you don’t know something, ask for help. If you need help with something, ask for help. Asking questions not only makes you more knowledgeable, but it also helps prevent unnecessary mistakes. If you’re brand spanking new to the education world, there are so many tiny pieces that make the whole. Parts you didn’t learn in school or your alternative certification program. There’s a lot of on the job training that goes on in schools; be willing to ask for help when you don’t understand or need support.
Stay Away from Grumpy Veterans
We can be the worst teachers to be around. We no longer follow the rules. We are anti-authority. We complain like nobody’s business. Stay away from us. I am an extremely positive person, and even I sometimes am a Grumpy Veteran.
Find a vet who is pleasurable to be around most days. Lol, That’s the teacher who will give you the best advice and support. You’ll want to stay away from those who hate their job, those who gossip like an extreme sport, and the ones that flat out don’t care.
Their negativity will bleed into your mind. Your already rough year will be even tougher if you choose to hang around people who choose to be unhappy. Choose your company wisely.
Protect your wallet, time, sanity, and energy. Teaching is tough. Don’t make it harder on yourself. Follow these tips, and your road as a new teacher will be less bumpy.
If you still haven’t found your dream job, grab my How to Land Your Dream Job Workbook. I’ll show you how to find the perfect job that’s just for you!

RESOURCES YOU WOULD LIKE
How to Land Your Dream Teaching Job Workbook
RELATED BLOG POSTS
How Teachers Can Rock Their Mock Lessons
3 Ways Teachers Can Prepare to Change Schools
3 Reasons Why Teachers Should Attend Job Fairs
How Teachers Can Build Their Confidence During Their Job Search

Continue Reading
How Teachers Can Safely Report to Social Services
- Classroom TIps, For Educators
The heartbreaking Netflix series The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez inspired this post. I just finished the episode that features his teacher and classmate. Although I have never lost a child from parental abuse, I’ve definitely felt the same hopelessness the teacher felt after repeatedly reporting to Child Protective Services (or whatever they call it in your state).
Every district has its own steps and procedures for mandated reporters, follow that! This post is NOT about how to report. This post is about how you can report to keep yourself, physically, financially, and legally safe.
Report, Even if You’re Unsure
There was a time I called social services to report child neglect. I was unsure if the facts that I knew would be taken seriously by CPS, but I wanted to report just in case they would. The lack of care of this child concerned me. They were being neglected. Even if CPS didn’t take it seriously (and they didn’t), I knew I would have a record of my concerns. If something serious happened to the child after he was no longer my student, I had a clear conscience. I knew I tried to let somebody know there was a problem.
Don’t Investigate
Don’t ask questions to get extra details. Let the professionals do it. I know I made this mistake the very first time I had to call social services. My student was giving me so much information; it was only natural to ask more. When I told my principal, she, like the principal in Gabriel’s case, told me not to ask questions. It’s tough not to ask but don’t.
My understanding is when you ask questions, you could be interfering in the possible future investigation. And sometimes that can lead to the dismissal of a case, even if there’s abuse. If they are being abused, you don’t want to be the reason why they don’t get the help they need.
Report Anonymously as Possible
Every single time I’ve called CPS, I’ve attempted to report anonymously, but the social worker lets the parents know, even though they aren’t supposed to. Or the child will tell their parents when questioned. I no longer give my name. I say I’m a school employee; I don’t even say, teacher. Sure the parents can figure it out, but they won’t know for sure. I’m fearful of retaliation. In my mind, if they can do things to hurt their child, why wouldn’t they try to do something to me. In my opinion, there’s no real way to report anonymously but try.
Document Your Report for Your Records
When you call, make sure you document all the details to keep for your record. I recommend putting the information in a Google Doc that isn’t on your school account. Why? Because a lot of us change districts, and once you leave, you no longer have access to the document. You never know when or if you will need it. I’ve always kept the information in a notebook, but notebooks can be misplaced. Going forward, I’m using a Google Doc. Write down the time and date when you called and who took your information. If they give you a case number, write that down too.
Repeatedly Report if Necessary
If you feel that there is repeated abuse, don’t stop reporting. Unfortunately, Gabriel’s teacher repeated calls to the social worker did not save him. But it should have. Remember, you are a mandated reporter, so you have to report for each incident.
Get the Counselor Involved
Don’t go at this alone! Make sure you have support. Notify your school’s counselor immediately. Sometimes they can help in ways that a classroom teacher cannot. Once you report, there’s not much you can do, but the counselor can emotionally support the student.

I honestly believe that Gabriel’s teacher did everything she could to protect him. Although she still feels guilty, I don’t know what else she could have done. I believe that only because she reported the signs of abuse repeatedly, that it saved her from being held liable for his death. It is heartbreaking that the system failed this child.

Children dying because of abuse is rare, but let his case be a reminder that you must report all suspected abuse. We are mandated reporters, and it is our job to help keep our students safe. Don’t get yourself into legal trouble because you didn’t report.

Continue Reading
3 Ways Teachers Can Attend a Job Fair Like a Boss
- For Educators, Job Hunt
Do you love going to job fairs? I know they can be stressful, but they’re the best way to practice your interviewing skills.
A lot of people go into job fairs thinking that they are at the mercy of the employers. If you go into a job fair with a plan, you’ll be in control.
There are three things you must-do if you want to take the lead. How do I know? Because I’ve done it all and secured a position after the fair! Now, check out how you can attend a job fair like a boss!
Research the Districts and Schools That Will Be There
I’ve never attended a job fair and didn’t know what districts would be there. Sometimes, the organizer was super specific and notified us of the schools that would be in attendance too. But, I’m willing to bet you can at least find the districts.
Next, research each district, and decide which districts fit your needs. You should not meet with every district just because they’re there, it is not a good use of your time, and it’s mentally draining! Find the ones that are a good fit for you! If you need help figuring out what makes a school a good fit, check out my How to Land Your Dream Job Workbook!
Once you find schools that pique your interests, be prepared to tell administrators why you would be a good fit for their campus. Do your research and be as specific as possible!
Make an Introduction Script
Schools are going to ask you over and over, “tell me about yourself.” So, make a mini script of what you’ll say. There’s no need to fumble over your basic introduction when you know it’s coming!
Prepare a one-minute introduction that includes your years of experience and your strengths. If you know what schools will be there, tailor your script to each school, let them know why you’re an excellent candidate! You know this question is coming, as Mufasa would say, be prepared!
Take Notes
After you meet with each administrator, take notes of your conversation. You’ll talk with so many people you won’t remember everyone and everything. By taking notes after each informal interview, you’ll not only keep everyone organized; you’ll have specific things to mention when you follow up with the schools of your choice.
There’s a way to make sure you have a successful time at a job fair. Follow the tips above, and you’ll find your email full of requests and your phone blowing up for formal interviews.
These tips are just the tip of the iceberg; I can help you prepare even further with my How to Land Your Dream Teaching Job Workbook! This workbook is a must-have if you’re searching for a new job!

Related Posts

Continue Reading
4 Books to Help Teachers Create Culturally Relevant Classrooms
- Book Recommendations, For Educators
This year I wanted to learn more about education outside of the professional learning at my district and school. I wanted to learn more about being a teacher that supported students’ social and emotional needs. This led me to seek out more information on culturally relevant/responsive teaching.
These books flow together perfectly and are great tools to help you meet the social-emotional needs of all your students.
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.
Culturally Responsive Teaching & The Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students
This book is a great starting point to your Culturally Responsive Teaching journey. You’ll get a good foundation about Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) from this book, so I recommend that you read this first.
Once you learn the background information you need to know to understand CRT, you’ll learn how to identify your biases (we all have them), and how to apply what you learned in your classroom.
Better Than Carrots or Sticks: Restorative Practices for Positive Classroom Management
Better Than Carrots or Sticks, focuses on how and why we should move away from punitive discipline. A lot of times in education, we do things because we’ve always done them a particular way. Many discipline policies that we’ve used for years, have the opposite effect on students that we’re expecting. They also disproportionately target minorities, which many times is because we don’t understand our students’ culture and our own biases.
In this book, you’ll find research-based information as to why we should only use restorative practices in our classroom and schools. Like the previous book, the authors give you tips and tools on how to implement these practices with your students.
The Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools
The Pushout explains what happens to black and brown girls after years of ignoring cultures, ignoring our biases, and punitive discipline. There are many books and research studies that focus on black and brown boys, but you can’t find a lot of information on the girls.
Studies show that black and brown girls are equally harmed in the education system. We push them out of the school system and often into the other harmful systems.
If you’re a teacher, whether or not you have black or brown girls in your classroom, you need to read this. Even if YOU are black or brown.
Sing a Rhythm, Dance a Blues: Education for the Liberation of Black and Brown Girls
This is a follow up to The Pushout. Monique W. Morris gives us Sing a Rhythm, Dance a Blues to help us with the next steps to solve the pushout of black and brown girls. This book gives you tips on how to work with students who many would label as troublemakers, loud, or disrespectful.
We have a lot of work to do when it comes to supporting all students. A major part of becoming a culturally relevant educator is letting go of our biases. It is letting go of your “power.” Our students’ education isn’t about us; it is about them. Reading these books is not enough, but they will help you make shifts in your practice.

Related Blog Posts
4 REASONS WHY ALL ELEMENTARY READING TEACHERS SHOULD USE RAZ-KIDS
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL STUDENTS
HOW TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL STUDENTS

Continue Reading

Browsing Category

Browsing Category

For Educators

RELATED BLOG POSTS

Related Posts

Students Should Be Able To Complete Assignments Independently

Unplanned Online Learning is Inequitable

I Want to Make Sure I’m Not Overworking

I Know My Students

I Was About to Do The Most, But Then…

RELATED BLOG POSTS

You Can Assign Leveled Books

You Can Assign Audiobooks

You Can Assign Running Records

You Can Assign Sight Word Testing

You Can Address Foundational Skills

You Can Assign Fluency Practice

Related Blog Posts

Dress Professionally

Find a Quiet Place

Find A Well Lit Area

Keep Notes Nearby

Take notes

Related Posts

Be honest with parents and your administrators

Focus on one thing at a time

Be willing to make mistakes and welcome support

Related Post

Set a budget

Set your schedule

Ask Questions

Stay Away from Grumpy Veterans

RESOURCES YOU WOULD LIKE

RELATED BLOG POSTS

Report, Even if You’re Unsure

Don’t Investigate

Report Anonymously as Possible

Document Your Report for Your Records

Repeatedly Report if Necessary

Get the Counselor Involved

Research the Districts and Schools That Will Be There

Make an Introduction Script

Take Notes

Related Posts

Related Blog Posts

@melissanikohl

melissanikohl