Using writing, routines, and strategies to improve classroom culture, increase student engagement and reduce teacher burnout – one classroom at at time.

  • Resistance to Rest | A Journal Entry

    Resistance to Rest | A Journal Entry

    Spread the loveAs promised in my, “Dropping out of the Rat Race” post, this post is a copy of my journal entry after reading several articles on psychcentral – specifically one titled, “How to Really Rest.” The article offered several questions that I used for the basis of my entry. You can see how I…

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  • Handling Conflict in a Middle School Classroom

    Handling Conflict in a Middle School Classroom

    The teaching experience in middle school can be complex due to the peculiar nature and needs of students at this stage. However, conflict management is crucial in this environment and can significantly impact the classroom positively if handled correctly. Effective conflict resolution involves knowing your students, addressing issues in private, listening to them, admitting your…

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  • Engaging Novels for Teen Readers | How to Choose the Best Books

    Engaging Novels for Teen Readers | How to Choose the Best Books

    The post discusses the importance of engaging students in reading by carefully selecting texts that resonate with them. It emphasizes the need for educators to understand their students’ preferences and interests in order to choose novels they can connect with. The author highlights the significance of using books that students find relevant, contain dynamic characters…

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  • From the wound…Rises a New Hope | A Teacher’s Journey Through

    From the wound…Rises a New Hope | A Teacher’s Journey Through

    In December 2022, I attended a writing retreat in California near Joshua Tree National Park, a transformative experience. Struggling with anxiety and depression while teaching, a friend’s words made me realize I needed to prioritize my well-being. I left teaching, facing uncertainty but embracing hope and personal growth. Now, I’m venturing into the unknown, learning…

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  • 5 Ways to Fight the Freeze | Productivity Tips that Actually Work

    5 Ways to Fight the Freeze | Productivity Tips that Actually Work

    This post explores the struggle of feeling overwhelmed by tasks and offers practical strategies for productivity. Reflecting on childhood experiences, the writer shares techniques like prioritizing a top three list, tackling the hardest task first, habit stacking, pairing enjoyable activities with less desirable ones, and embracing imperfection in forming new habits.

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