It is that time of year again! The time we open up our brand new teacher plan book from ban.do and begin to prepare for the up and coming school year. Aside from prepping our planners with all the fun stickers and noting all of the important dates and days off throughout the school year, we also take time for one more very important step.
Read MoreThis is an activity that we at TTD used for years in our classroom. The students LOVE it and it adds such beauty and color into an otherwise blank classroom. Below are step by step directions on how you can make one amazing activity that will brighten up your classroom with color, and make your class a place that every student feels welcome and connected.
Read MoreThe first few weeks of school can be a whirlwind of activity. You’re busy setting up procedures, going over class rules and expectations, and getting to know your students. One tried and true activity that we have had a lot of success with is what we call the Name Plate. Below are step by step directions on how you can make one amazing activity that will brighten up your classroom with color, and make your class a place that every student feels welcome and connected.
Read MoreCalling all Taylor Swift fans and educators with a flair for fun! Are you ready to turn your classroom into a powerhouse of positivity? Well, get ready to channel your inner Swiftie because we've got a brilliant idea that combines education and Taylor Swift lyrics. Brace yourselves because we have created posters that proves why using her catchy tunes as classroom decor is the ultimate secret to keeping spirits high and minds soaring!
Read MoreAs teachers, we know that change is inevitable and often brings both excitement and challenges. One of the most significant transitions teachers can face is changing grade levels or subjects. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a fresh face in the profession, navigating this transition can be both daunting and rewarding. In this blog post, we will explore valuable tips to help you successfully adapt to a new grade level or subject and make the most of this transformative experience.
Read MoreEach and every summer I notice my daughter’s hair growing a darker and darker shade of green from swimming in the pool. Check out the fancy, and not so fancy, hacks I use to get my girl’s green hair back to its luscious blonde in time for school pictures.
Read MoreAre you planning a trip to Disneyland in the near future? If so, you’re in luck! I have taken the guesswork out of what to pack for a worry free and super fun time at Disneyland with the family.
Read MoreKids these days are so lucky! There so many great young adult (YA) books for them to choose from. Here are some of our favorites for social justice:
Read MoreSometimes, our students just need a break from learning, especially during the spring testing season. Here are some games that we use in our classroom, sparingly of course!
Read MoreToxic positivity is the belief that one should maintain a positive attitude at all times, even in the face of adversity. While positivity can be helpful in some situations, toxic positivity can be harmful and have negative effects, particularly on teachers.
Read MoreTeaching comes with it own set of occupational hazards a mile long. One of these hazards is compassion fatigue. We see and witness too much pain in the world. In order for teachers to be the support that students, parents, and colleagues need, we need to practice self care regularly and often. It is of vital importance that we have the emotional capacity and strength to work with people who are suffering. Taking care of ourselves is not selfish.
Read MoreAs teachers, we've all had to adapt to the new normal that is teaching post pandemic and teaching middle schoolers during this time. (I mean can we really say we are post pandemic when COVID is still very much alive and well in our communities? But, I digress ) So, let's dive into the best and worst things about teaching middle school post-pandemic, shall we?
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