June 13, 2024 · 12:04 AM

Engaging with Data: Key Takeaways from Thought-Provoking Sessions at the 5th Annual Ferguson Institute

I believe in sharing the good; words have power. There were so many words of wisdom shared over the last few days, I took pen to paper to capture a few words that spoke to me. I hope they inspire you or encourage reflection as you wrap up the 2023-24 school year. Please refer to the recommended resources for the names of some of the speakers who lit my fuse of curiosity this week. Never forget that to teach is a choice. To lead in education is a choice. The work you choose to do matters! Thank you for saying yes to the call to serve in education…

I found this week so engaging that I needed to pause and reflect to process the many data insights supported by research shared this week. There was such a dynamic cadre of national educational leaders that gathered in Dallas for this well planned and executed event. Many opportunities were provided to listen and discuss data and how to use data to inform decisions that effect student learning outcomes. I have a notebook of takeaways that I will spend some time with over the summer to unpack from attending the Curriculum Associates 5th Annual Ferguson Institute.

Denise Ball, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning/Lori Chaney, Curriculum Associates, Director of Sales, Mid-Atlantic/Kelly Branaman, Secretary for Catholic Schools and Superintendent of Schools

Key Takeaways:

1. It is important to come together; educating students takes a community.

The power of collaboration in education was a resounding theme at the Ferguson Institute. The diverse perspectives and experiences shared among those present served as a powerful reminder that the education of our students is a collective endeavor, not an individual one.

2. As educational leaders, we need to ensure we are providing teachers with opportunities to create environments where students feel “invited” to learn and that we are embracing and using data across all grade levels.

Creating inviting learning environments is crucial. By leveraging data, we can tailor these environments to meet the needs of every student, fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere that encourages engagement and learning.

Hattie, John. “Foster a Learning Culture.” 2024. What Brings You Joy. 5th Annual Ferguson Institute.

3. Remember never to underestimate a student’s potential and that every child is a capable mathematical thinker. Wouldn’t it be amazing if all students believed they were capable mathematical thinkers? Expecting excellence will transform a school culture!

At the heart of our educational mission is the belief in the untapped potential of every student. By fostering a culture of high expectations and support, we can empower our students to see themselves as capable mathematical thinkers, thereby transforming the overall school culture. Embracing this thought process might also require some professional development to ensure your faculty sees a capable mathematical thinker in every student. Let us enter the conversation…

4. Continue to seek to be inspired, encourage one another and the students placed in your care. Do not edit out the innovation; create environments for students and teachers that promote curiosity and inquiry.

Innovation should be at the heart of our educational practices. By nurturing curiosity and inquiry, we can create dynamic learning environments that inspire both teachers and students to explore, experiment, and grow.

Hattie, John. “Students are Engaged in their Learning.” 2024. What Brings You Joy. 5th Annual Ferguson Institute.

5. Building capacity through teaching inference and evaluating the impact is essential.

Teaching inference is essential for developing critical thinking skills. Evaluating the impact of our teaching practices ensures that we are effectively building these capacities in our students and continually improving our methods.

6. Hearing school districts share their data story was inspirational and provided opportunities for rich data dialogue. Hearing that achievement is up half a grade level equivalent in one year was simply a testament that the i-Ready curriculum and assessment resources make a difference!

The success stories shared by various school districts were both inspiring and affirming. The significant improvements in student achievement underscore the effectiveness of the i-Ready curriculum and assessment resources in enhancing educational outcomes.

Sullivan, Mark. Birmingham City Schools. 2024.

7. Curriculum Associates stimulates inquiry…always growing and improving through research and collaboration where speech recognition, Algebra I, and i-Ready Pro initiatives will be student game changers.

Curriculum Associates’ commitment to continuous growth and improvement through research and collaboration is evident in their innovative initiatives. These advancements promise to be transformative for students, particularly in areas like speech recognition and Algebra I.

8. One gold nugget that is life-affirming is to embrace the errors. No one says no to better!

Embracing errors as opportunities for growth is a powerful mindset. It reminds us that continuous improvement is always possible, and every mistake is a step towards betterment.

The world is chaotic, and we are called to be a positive light for the students and parents in our care. We must have courage, and as reflective practitioners, we must remember to reflect often on what brings us joy. Nothing great happens in the absence of enthusiasm. Build that playlist this summer, sing aloud and dance. Get energized to develop a personal and professional framework for greatness for the 2024-25 school year.

I am leaving Dallas and headed back to D.C. with the clear understanding that Curriculum Associates is an organization where everyone believes that every child deserves to be on grade level. It has been an exceptional week, enriched with data discussions with passionate school and district leaders committed to making a difference in a child’s life. I look forward to continuing to unpack all that I learned with my team and the school leaders I serve, strengthening the relationships developed and lessons learned while engaging with data at the 5th Annual Ferguson Institute.

Inspiring Leaders Making a Difference in Education

Recommended Reading Resources

Whitepaper: Culturally Responsive Mathematics Teaching (curriculumassociates.com)

School Readiness for Young Students Post-Pandemic (curriculumassociates.com)

Rethinking Middle School Math Acceleration (curriculumassociates.com)

Student-Focused AI Capabilities

Leave a comment

Filed under Blogs that Inspire Us, Curriculum Resources, Education Leadership Conferences, Educational Websites and Resources, Inspiration, Interesting Topics, Sharing the Good, Sharing the Good in Education

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

May 30, 2024 · 3:27 PM

Top Five Recommended “Musts” to Ensure Teachers Feel Valued Before the Summer Pause

It is an exciting time, but this season of transition can be chaotic and often stressful for faculty, staff, students, and parents. A little bit of grace this time of year goes a long way.

When I was a school leader, I used to tell my staff that the end of the year was a time for putting on the “red shoes”…making sure to leave home needs at home and embracing each day with purpose; we are called to be the difference. Retention data shows that it is important now more than ever to ensure that all stakeholders end the year on a high note.

A school climate affects teacher satisfaction, morale, and expectations about staying in the profession (Garcia & Weiss, 2019). A high percentage of teachers do not feel appreciated, and this feeling can have an impact on their choice of staying or leaving the classroom. It would be beneficial for society to remember that teaching remains an extraordinarily noble profession with intrinsic rewards that few other disciplines experience (Vocke & Foran, 2017). There are many ways to show teachers support. Below are my five recommended “musts” to finish the school year strong, ensuring teachers feel valued.

Top Five Recommended “Musts” to Ensure Teachers Feel Valued Before the Summer Pause

  1. Handwritten Thank-You Notes: Write personalized notes to each teacher, highlighting specific contributions and expressing sincere gratitude. Encourage faculty and staff to write anonymous notes to one another. Positive energy is synergistic!
  2. Public Acknowledgment: Use school newsletters, social media, and assemblies to publicly recognize and celebrate teachers’ achievements and dedication. Use these last few weeks of school to promote and share the good that has happened on your school campus. Sharing the good can change a school’s culture.
  3. Classroom Resources: Provide teachers with additional resources or gift cards for classroom supplies as a token of appreciation and to ease their financial burden as they begin to plan this summer for the upcoming school year.
  4. Professional Development Stipends: Offer a stipend or provide a gift card for summer professional development courses, or educational reading materials, indicating investment in their continued growth.
  5. End-of-Year Celebration: Host a celebratory event to honor teachers’ hard work and achievements throughout the year. Include awards or small gifts to show appreciation. Have a discussion on the theme for the upcoming school year to help give direction (which will reduce stress) in helping teachers plan over the summer.

Give your team permission to put an “out of office” message on their email for a period of time to spend with family and friends, recharging so they can be all they are called to be for the upcoming school year. Building in a “time to pause” into one’s daily schedule, will allow teachers to come back to campus more creative, energized, and ready to accomplish team initiatives for the new school year.

Photo Credit: Anna Quattrone, Director of Marketing and Enrollment

Ultimately, it is essential to never underestimate the importance on greeting your faculty and staff as they begin the school day, providing an encouraging word or smile, and making sure your team members feel seen and heard. Teachers choose to serve in schools where they feel welcomed and appreciated.

Regardless of the time of year, it is always a good idea to thank a teacher for choosing to teach!

May the last few weeks of school be filled with joy and peace!

Denise

Denise Ball, Ed.D.

Recommended Reading

Carver-Thomas, D., & Darling-Hammond, L. (2019). “The Trouble with Teacher Turnover: How Teacher Attrition Affects Students and Schools.” Education Policy Analysis Archives, 27(36).

Garcia, J. R., & Weiss, N. (2019). Challenging working environments “school climates”,  especially in high-poverty schools, play a role in the teacher shortage. Economic Policy  Institute. Retrieved from https://www.epi.org/publication/school-climate-challenges affect-teachers-morale-more-so-in-high-poverty-schools-the-fourth report-in-the-perfect storm-in-the-teacher-labor-market-series/

Kraft, M. A., Papay, J. P., Charner-Laird, M., Johnson, S. M., Ng, M., & Reinhorn, S. K. (2020). “Educator Work Environments and Teacher Effectiveness: A Two-Year Longitudinal Study of Teaching Assignments.” Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis, 42(3), 436-460.

Podolsky, A., Kini, T., Bishop, J., & Darling-Hammond, L. (2019). “Strategies for Attracting and Retaining Educators: What Does the Evidence Say?” Education Policy Analysis Archives, 27(38).

Leave a comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources, Teacher Retention and Recruitment

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

January 21, 2024 · 7:21 PM

A Positive School Climate=STRONG Teacher Retention

In the midst of teacher discernment, where educators contemplate the decision to stay or leave the classroom at the end of the school year, the role of school leaders becomes pivotal in shaping the trajectory of teacher retention. Investing time in building and maintaining a positive school culture emerges as a crucial strategy for retaining teachers. The impact of teachers on society is emphasized in research, underscoring the need for schools to promote this message as part of their teacher retention efforts (Dutta & Sahney, 2016). Examining the interconnected dynamics of climate, teacher retention, and the leadership’s role in fostering a positive environment is paramount.

Studies, such as those conducted by Malinen & Savalainen (2016), highlight the significant influence of a teacher’s perceived school climate on job satisfaction, burnout, and self-efficacy. The pervasive issue of teacher stress, compounded by the challenges of the pandemic, further emphasizes the importance of a positive school climate in contributing to teachers’ mental health and overall well-being (Gray et al., 2017; Alexander et al., 2020). As teachers grapple with physical and emotional burnout, creating a supportive and positive work environment becomes imperative for retention and education’s overall effectiveness.

The National School Climate Center (2019) defines a school’s climate as the quality and character of school life, reinforcing the idea that schools are mirrors of the societal landscape (Katz & Donohoo, 2022). In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Psychological Association advocates for reflection on the psychological factors at play in education (Bouffard, 2022). Encouraging curiosity and fostering inclusive school climates that respect diverse voices and viewpoints are suggested strategies for school leaders to navigate the complexities teachers face (Bouffard, 2022). As a member of a team that serves in schools, how do you contribute to providing and enhancing the positive energy in your school that is essential for student learning? A smile and a kind word go a long way!

Educational leaders play a pivotal role in improving school climate by maximizing the school team and community attributes (Hu et al., 2019). The polarization and division in society, as evidenced by recent Pew Research Center studies (Dimock & Wike, 2021), contribute to the challenges teachers encounter. Therefore, understanding and addressing these external factors become integral to the school’s overall climate and teacher retention efforts.

As we navigate changes in education, it is crucial for educational leaders to listen attentively to educators’ concerns about their working conditions (Goldstein, 2019). Supporting current educators is not only an immediate necessity but also serves as a vital stopgap in retaining qualified professionals within our schools.

The investment in a positive school culture by school leaders is not merely an option but a strategic imperative for addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by teachers contemplating their continued commitment to remain in the classroom or the profession as a whole. Creating an environment where respect, encouragement, learning, and curiosity are practiced in words and action is synergistic.

When we train our eyes to see the good, amazing things happen…may we strive to CHOOSE to share the good!

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things~

Denise

Author’s Note: This blog post uses direct excerpts from an original dissertation publication in its entirety. Please use the following citation when referencing this work:

Ball, Denise M. (2023). Improving Teacher Retention Within Archdiocese of Washington Schools. Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5006. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5006

                 Copyright © 2023 Denise Marie Ball

References

Bouffard, S. (2022). Professional learning can lead us to common ground. The Learning

Professional, the Learning Forward Journal. https://doi:learningforward.org/journal/building-community-vided-world/professional-learning-can-lead-us-to-common-ground/

Dimock, M. and Wike, R. (2021). America is exceptional in its political divide. Trust

Magazine. https://DOI:www.pewtrusts.org/en/trust/archive/winter-2021/america-is-

exceptional-in-its-political-divide

Dutta, V. & Sahney, S. (2016), School leadership and its impact on student achievement: The

mediating role of school climate and teacher job satisfaction. International Journal of Education Management, 30(6), 941-958. https://doi.org.ezproxy.liberty.edu/10.1108/IJEM-12-2014-0170

Goldstein, D. (2019). In 13 years of educating reporting, so much has changed. New York Times. https://doi:www.nytimes.com/2019/01/30/reader-center/in-13-years-of-education reporting-so-much-has-change

Gray, C., Wilcox, G., & Nordstokke, D. (2017). Teacher mental health, school climate, inclusive education, and student learning: A review. Canadian Psychology, 58(3), 203-210.

Hu, B., Li, Y., Wang, C, Reynolds, B. & Wang, S. (2019). The relation between school climate and preschool teacher stress: The mediating role of teachers’ self-efficacy. Journal of Educational Administration, 57(6).

Katz, S. & Donohoo, J. (2022). How to achieve collective efficacy in time of division. The

Learning Professional, 43 (2), 20-23

Malinen, O. & Savalainen, H. (2016). The effect of perceived school climate and teacher efficacy in behavior management on job satisfaction and burnout: A longitudinal study. Teaching and Teacher Education, 60, 144-152.

Author’s Note: This blog post uses direct excerpts from an original dissertation publication in its entirety. Please use the following citation when referencing this work:

 Ball, Denise M. (2023). Improving Teacher Retention Within Archdiocese of Washington Schools. Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5006. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5006

                 Copyright © 2023 Denise Marie Ball

3 Comments

Filed under Blogs that Inspire Us, Creating a Positive School Culture, Curriculum Resources

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

December 28, 2023 · 9:31 AM

Christmas Ornaments, Teachers, and a Grateful Heart

Positive teacher-student relationships are invaluable, leaving a lasting impact on the social, emotional, and academic growth of young individuals (National Center on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments, 2023). The significance of these connections became even more apparent during a recent Christmas tree decorating tradition with my adult, college-age children. As they carefully placed each ornament, I paused to listen, as the room echoed with stories from their school days – tales of teachers, friends, and the memories encapsulated in each unique ornament. Through the laughter and sharing of these special memories, I was reminded on the profound role educators play in shaping the narrative of a child’s life.

 

Listening to my children reminisce about the ornaments and share their favorite memories of teachers, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the dedicated educators who had left an indelible mark on their lives. The seemingly simple ornaments became cherished treasures, representing the countless hours teachers invest in lesson planning and the thoughtful crafting of activities to impart values of faith, family, and tradition. These efforts, though perhaps overlooked in the moment, plant seeds of lasting memories that endure far beyond the classroom.

 

In my own educational journey, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with remarkable educators. As both a mother and a colleague, I extend heartfelt appreciation to all those who choose to serve in the classroom. Your commitment and passion make a profound difference in the lives of the students and parents entrusted to your care.

YOU make a difference and the seeds you plant today continue to grow for a lifetime…thank you!

Leave a comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

December 12, 2023 · 5:36 PM

The Journey of Earning my Doctorate Degree in Education

The journey of earning my doctorate degree in education has been nothing short of an awe-inspiring experience. The countless hours of research, the rigorous academic challenges, and the camaraderie with fellow scholars have collectively shaped me into a more knowledgeable and resilient individual. The process of delving deep into the intricacies of educational theory and practice has not only expanded my intellectual horizons but has also instilled in me a profound passion for enhancing the educational landscape. I have served in education for the last 26 years, inspired by many teachers and school leaders. This has been a life-long goal and I am so grateful for all the support and words of encouragement along the way.

As I reflect on this transformative journey, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the next phase of my academic endeavor. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and a heightened understanding of educational methodologies, I am excited to transition into the role of a contributor, researcher, and advocate for improved learning experiences. The prospect of engaging in meaningful research and writing to share innovative ways to enhance the educational journey for both students and teachers fuels my enthusiasm. This next phase represents an opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, translating academic insights into actionable strategies that can positively impact classrooms and educational institutions.

My doctoral journey has equipped me not only with a scholarly mindset but also with a deep sense of responsibility to make a meaningful contribution to the field of education. I am eager to continue to collaborate with like-minded individuals, educators, and institutions to implement evidence-based practices that can foster a more enriching and effective learning environment. As I embark on this new chapter, I am motivated by the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for positive change, and I am committed to playing an active role in shaping a future where learning is an inspiring and transformative experience for all involved. If you are in that phase of discernment about whether to work towards earning a doctorate degree in education, be encouraged that you can make a difference and your voice is needed in education.

A special thank you to Liberty University for having a financially supportive program for veterans, allowing me to embark on this very fulfilling journey.

Improving Teacher Retention Within the Archdiocese of Washington Dissertation-https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5006/

May we all continue to seek knowledge in all things,

Denise

2 Comments

Filed under Curriculum Resources

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

June 25, 2023 · 2:19 PM

Renewal of the Educational Conference Experience: Inspiring Teachers and School Leaders

As I reflect on the 2022-23 school year, I am so proud of the school leaders and teachers I serve. This was a year of not getting back to normal but developing a new framework to meet the needs of students and school communities. In the midst of a society inundated with negativity and despair, teachers and school leaders are called to be beacons of hope. Recognizing the importance of professional development, I had the privilege of attending a conference that not only inspired and renewed educators but also provided invaluable strategies and best practices. The NCEA Conference held in Texas last April brought together teachers from all over the United States, fostering an environment of excitement and growth.

Building Hope and Inspiring Change

As teachers, we hold a remarkable responsibility in shaping the leaders of tomorrow and influencing the future of society. The conference was a testament to the commitment of educators who understand the importance of their role. It was truly inspiring to witness thousands of teachers gathering in one place, united by their passion for education. Laughter filled the air as teachers immersed themselves in sessions, eagerly absorbing new knowledge and revisiting proven strategies. The energy and enthusiasm that emanated from the event were a testament to the collective dedication of educators to their craft and the need for educators to have opportunities to come together to share ideas and collaborate.

Renewing Spirit and Cultivating Excellence

Professional development plays a vital role in empowering teachers to be the best versions of themselves in the classroom. The conference provided a platform for educators to reflect, rejuvenate, and gather the necessary tools to establish a positive school culture. It allowed school leaders to introspect and equip themselves with the skills required to support and uplift their teaching staff. By embracing this opportunity for growth and renewal, educators could enhance the educational experience for their students.

Noteworthy Vendors

Numerous vendors contributed to the success of the conference by offering their expertise and resources. Here are some vendors whose offerings caught my attention:

ADAC – Professional Development Specialists (www.theadac.com):

ADAC specializes in providing professional development services to educators. Their workshops and training sessions offer valuable insights and strategies that enhance teaching practices and student engagement. By investing in continuous professional development, teachers can evolve their instructional methods and inspire their students.

Little Linguist Art Academy (info@littlelinguistics.com):

Little Linguist Art Academy offers a unique approach to language learning through artistic expression. By combining language acquisition and creative activities, they provide an engaging and immersive learning experience for students. Their programs help foster a love for languages and encourage students to explore their creative talents.

Silent Auction Pro (www.SilentAuctionPro.com):

Silent Auction Pro offers comprehensive software solutions for organizing and managing fundraising events. With their user-friendly platform, schools can streamline the process of conducting silent auctions, thereby maximizing their fundraising potential. This resource can significantly benefit schools looking to generate funds for various educational initiatives.

Loyola Press (www.loyolapress.com):

Loyola Press is a renowned publisher specializing in educational materials, particularly in the field of Catholic education. Their resources include textbooks, teaching aids, and faith formation materials. By providing comprehensive and high-quality materials, Loyola Press supports educators in delivering an enriching and value-based education to their students.

  • Catholic Teachers’ Lounge-www.catholicteacherslounge.com
  • Archangel Education and Technology-www.arch-te.com
  • Curriculum Associates-i-Ready Classroom (Mathematics) -www.curriculumassociates.com
  • Simple Solutions Learning, Inc. (Yearlong and Summer Academic Workbooks) -www.simplesolutions.org
  • RISE Education– (Providing Teachers to Enhance Educational Programs)-www.riseeducation.com
  • McGraw Hill Education– (Number Worlds)-www.mheducation.com
  • Hallow-www.hallow.com
  • HSPT Prep Student Achievement Associates-www.hsptprepprograms.com
  • Lenovo Education-www.lenovo.com
  • National Catholic Education Association (NCEA)-www.ncea.org
  • COGNIA-www.cognia.org
  • Sadlier-www.sadlier.com (Vocabulary and Writing Resources for K-12)

Attending the NCEA Conference was a truly transformative experience. Witnessing the dedication and passion of educators from across the nation served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact we can have on our students and society as a whole. The conference provided an opportunity to learn from industry experts, exchange ideas with fellow educators, and explore innovative resources offered by exceptional vendors.

As we approach the summer break, let us be inspired to build a framework for the upcoming school year that plants seeds of hope and fosters a love for learning among our students. May school leaders also reflect and renew their commitment to supporting their teachers in establishing a positive school culture and establish routines and traditions to help establish a dynamic team, thereby enhancing the educational experience for all students.

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things~

Denise

McGraw Hill Education
Wonderful teachers I met at the conference who traveled from Belize.
Curriculum Associates
Fr. John Belomonte, S.J. (Diocese of Venice)
ADW School Leaders-Principal Erin Meunier was a presenter.

Leave a comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources, Educational Resources, Inspiration, Math Resources Online for Grades K-12, Positive School Culture, Principals and Administrator Tools

August 18, 2021 · 7:16 PM

Thank You…Over 1 Million Views

As of June 2023, this blog has had over 1 million views, thank you! I am in the final stages of conducting my research for my dissertation and I appreciate the kind messages of inspiration sent. This platform was created in 2012 to share the good in education. Please feel free to share what inspired you this year. Sharing the good is synergistic and good for us all!

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things~

Denise

August 2020

Thank you to the 580K+ visitors to this blog. This blog is a creative way I use to share the good I see and find. Once I defend my dissertation and earn my doctorate, I hope to spend more time sharing the best practices that readers share with me. I appreciate the teachers and educational leaders that share tips and recommendations they find helpful in the classroom, school or district they serve. Thank you to the parents who leave comments and suggestions too.

When we train our eyes to see the good, we can do ANYTHING!

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things-

Denise

Leave a comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources, educational leadership, Educational Resources, Inspiration, Our Statistics, Sharing the Good, Sharing the Good in Education, Team Building/Positive Work Environments

Tagged as , ,

August 6, 2021 · 1:32 PM

Calling all Educational Leaders…Preparing your School Team for the 2021-22 School Year

Educational leaders, as you prepare to bring your teams back together, now more than ever, we need to work with our school teams to develop a sense of collective responsibility to contribute to a positive school environment (Towers & Maguire, 2017).

Our teachers desire a sense of belonging (Kelchtermans, 2017). We need to seek to hear teacher voice, allowing our educators to take an active role in developing, implementing and engaging in professional development that will enhance the educational experience for all stakeholders holders and increase job motivation amongst team members.

Regardless if the role we serve is teacher, janitor, secretary or principal, we all teach in word and action. However, collectively, a school team needs to be of one mind, one unified team to serve the students and parents placed in their care. A positive school climate is synergistic. It takes having intentional discussions as a school team and developing a framework, a road map to team success now before the students return.

The school year can be a road with many challenges (COVID) and obstacles. However, a unified team, determined to create and maintain a positive school culture can do ANYTHING!

May this upcoming school year be filled with new discoveries and developments for your school team…

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things-

Denise

Leave a comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources, educational leadership, Inspiration, Positive School Culture, Team building

May 7, 2021 · 4:58 PM

Words of Wisdom

Seeing and sharing the good as I find it!
This was in a bathroom in a fun Grand Rapids establishment.

1 Comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources, Sharing the Good

February 13, 2021 · 5:47 PM

The Importance of Building a Positive School Culture

It is a joy for me to serve in education and I wanted to share some slides from one of my latest professional development sessions. As educational leaders, it is essential that we are reflective in practices and take the time to enter the difficult conversations and modeling this for our school teams. A positive school culture can not only make a difference in building a strong educational team and retaining teachers, but studies show that a positive school culture has a direct effect on student learning. Exemplary leaders understand how to create a climate of collaboration, they must determine what the group needs to do their work and build the team around a common purpose with mutual respect (Kouzes, 2017).

As we walk through this pandemic, take the time to invest into the discussion of developing or strengthening your school cultures…it will make ALL the difference!

May we continue to seek knowledge in all things~

Denise

Reference

Kouzes, J. & Posner, B (2017). The leadership challenge-how to make extraordinary things happen in organizations.

Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons, Inc.

1 Comment

Filed under Curriculum Resources

Tagged as , , , ,