Teacher Tip Tuesday

This teacher tip comes from Brittany Johnson who is a 5th Grade Math teacher at Holiman Elementary.

Johnson has a few tips to share with us:

1- Have a little bit of fun everyday with your students. Share things that bring you joy, tell them the cheesy jokes, laugh when you mess up and remember that they are people too and if you're not having fun teaching them then they probably aren't having fun learning it!

2- Don't waste your money on one time use incentives, like candy or small toys, it'll end up costing you too much and they don't motivate the kids for very long. Use things like being able to use a blanket in class, sit in a comfy chair, using a colorful pen, or being in a group with their friend along with relationship building to incentivize them!

3-If your school allows it GET A CLASS PET! The kids love it and it creates so many learning opportunities and another great incentive! You'd be surprised at how quietly a group of 20 5th grades walks into the classroom when they think our class pet Legolas (in the photo above) might be out in his tank where they can see him! There are also grants that will help you with getting the pet and supplies for them, such as The Pets in the Classroom Grant!

And finally trust your judgment! You are more capable and knowledgeable than you think!

This week's tip comes from Laikin Rainey is a 1st grade at McGill Elementary.

Laikin's tip she has to share with us is:

"Love first, teach second.

I’ve found building relationships with your students is the most important thing. You never know what a child might be dealing with outside of school.

Ask lots of questions, and celebrate successes!!

Also, communication is key, whether it’s with your coworkers, or parents!!"

This week's teacher tip comes from Katrina Medlock who is a Pre-K Special Education Teacher at Alta Loma Elementary.

The tip that Katrina has to share with us is:

"Be prepared to change your schedule and routine a lot in the first couple weeks of school. Flexibility is your BFF. Get to know your kids. Get on the floor and play with them during centers. Ask them questions and don't be afraid to try things, even if it gets messy!"

This weeks teacher tip comes from Kayla Smith, who is a 1st Grade teacher at Olsen Park Elementary.

The tip Kayla has for us is:

"Never be afraid to ask questions and teach lessons out of your comfort zone. You’ll be surprised at how amazing you can be by being brave and learning from your mistakes. Always remember that you have a purpose in the teaching field. Keep being AMAZING! You’ve got this!"