Keeping the Focus on What’s Important

Fads in education come and go, but a relentless focus on the things proven to increase learning leads to success.

Here’s how a group of educators came together to ensure that they wouldn’t be overwhelmed by initiatives, to keep the joy in teaching.

Middle school students may get inspired about writing if they’re offered exercises that support different methods of expression.

Providing materials such as milk crates, tires, and pieces of wood amplifies student curiosity and imaginative play at recess.

‘Taking the time to be engaging’ and setting high expectations are key to good teaching, says TikTok influencer and middle school teacher Claudine James.

Administrators can be more effective when they focus on ways to help staff rather than ways to force compliance.

An instructional coach looks at several ways teachers can take ownership of their professional development.

Teachers often expect older students to know how to take notes, but most need explicit instruction to develop this skill.

These ideas can guide novice or even seasoned principals facing the challenges of working at a new school.

School leaders—new to the job or to a school—will find it useful to spend the first part of the year listening and immersing themselves in the school’s culture and values.