I agree that being involved and connecting with students outside of the classroom is really important. It shows them how much you truly care about not only their education, but their lives. In the past I have attended student performances and sporting events. When I see the smile on their faces when they see me, it’s truly priceless. I love how that connection transfers to the classroom the next day. To hear them talk about seeing me and excitement about me being at the next event, it warms my heart and reinforces that I am an important part of their lives both inside and outside of the classroom. The movie title that best goes with me is “The Game Plan”. I chose this for me because I know how important being involved is, and I have a plan to be involved. I like the idea of having an event calendar for the classroom to support each other!
I agree very much! Our genuine interest can be critical in playing the role of caregiver at any time when it comes to our scholars. We want them to feel safe, loved, and appreciated in and out of the computer screens and/or walls. Thank you for sharing.
The kids will care more about what we are trying to accomplish, if they see that we care about what they are doing as well. And it is a small investment that returns so much in the classroom.
Your idea of a calendar is great! What a good way for students to make connections with each other and encourage each other. Their non-academic conversations are important too!
Heather I too love the idea of having an event calendar. Scholars love to share and this would offer so many extra teaching moments. Give scholars things to talk about doing morning meeting. Also could be used in a writing center.
I also agree that it is so important to show interest in your students outside as well as inside the classroom. I used to attend events whenever it fit into my schedule. I do that now but I also take pictures of the students in their activities. This makes the start of a meaningful conversation easy. Other students can also get involved in the conversation. This gives new students or shy scholars a chance to jump into the conversation as well. The challenge for me as a teacher is to make sure I get pictures of all my students. The events board is a great idea. I will be stealing this come fall.
Attending student extracurriculars shows support outside of the classroom. It allows for students to see their teachers as regular people too, which allows for a connection to build upon. The students' surprised smiling faces are the best, Heather! Tricia- Middlebury Academy Akron, OH
I think it's very important to know your students outside of school I have went to students basketball games and seen a few at local supermarkets...acknowledged them outside the classroom is a big deal it shows that you actually care and invested in them
I think it is immensely important to take time for scholars outside of the classroom. I personally enjoy attending their outside activities such as ballgames, competitions, and concerts. Living and working in the downtown area allows me to see my scholars at their events and occasionally inside stores, which can be very fun! The more we invest in our scholars outside of the classroom the better they will perform inside the classroom. Once again, trust is a key component in high achieving scholars.
I agree with Melanie L. that trust is a key component in high achieving scholars. I believe that when you are attending outside events to support your students or coaching their team you are building that trust. Sohn'a Duff PLA@103
Building trust is probably one of the most important things you can do with our scholars. They need that in their lives, well at least my population of kids do.
I do agree with Heather and S duff, you are building relationships with the scholars as well as letting them know you care for them more than in the class room. I went to s few if the girls basketball and the next day in school they mentioned it and said they were glad I was there for support. Plus it shows another side of the teacher and their character as s person.
Some of my scholars that had behavior issues were also involved in extracurricular activities. It built such a wall of trust with them when I attended their events. I remember teachers who did the same for me when I was a kid I still remember those teachers to this day!
Scholars will always remember when we attend events for them. Some scholars don't have family that attend the events, and that makes its so much more meaningful when we attend.
I agree!! My son and daughter remember when their teachers come to their games. However, as a teacher it does make it harder for me to go to my scholars things as my kids are so active. It's all about planning! :)
It is definitely important to build relationships with the students outside of the classroom, so that they can get to know each other as people, with common interests. I think back to the past year and remember that the students who had the most positive behavior in class were those who I got to know and I invested time in speaking with them. I know that I must make more intentional effort to connect with as many of them as I can in this same manner. And it may just be as easy as catching a few games or dances next year. I was like the movie "Clueless" last year, but with purposeful effort, I think I can have a "Limitless" year next year.
I think it's easy sometimes to slip into this habit of getting to know our students who have a lot of positive behavior. I do think though if we take the time with students we may have trouble with, we can see them as more than that. I was also Clueless this past year and I'm excited for the ideas given in the book to do this! Chynna Triska 103
I agree it can be easy to spend your energies on scholars with good behavior. I remember one year I had an extremely difficult student with behaviors. I went to her basketball games and it definitely broke the barrier. She slowly started to trust and believe that I cared about her as a person outside of the school setting and it was a beautiful thing watching her slowly build that trusting relationship with me!
Alicia, Your post and those that follow reminded me of a scholar that I had who struggled with confidence. He would act out in class and make poor decisions. I was working on completing my Reading Endorsement and needed a "subject". I chose him because I needed to figure out what made him tick. We met after school a few days each week for 2 months. There were days that he just could not complete any part of working with me and other days that were just awesome! Before we left for quarantine, his crying and physical throwing tantrums were minimal. He attended my daily Zoom sessions over break and would call me if he needed help on his work. I offered this summer to work with he and another sibling to give them that extra push. Meeting one another one-on-one, gave us a bit more insight into each other. He loved watching videos that I take on my phone and pictures of my family. It was something that not every student gets to do with me and I think that helped him open up and realize that he could trust me. Even when he would throw chairs and wreck things in my class after school in anger, I would still be there, loving and caring about him more than whatever he damaged. I also know that not all students are open to building a relationship. Some students have a thick wall and figuring out how to chip at it can be very challenging. I think of it as detective work as I try to "crack the case" and figure out each unique personality! Michelle Lisco, Middlebury Academy
One of the keys to a successful classroom is building relationships. Trying to connect to students on a non-academic level is crucial. I try to find out their interests, something we have in common, or a funny quirk and that can lead to meaningful conversations and build a trusting relationship. These relationships can lead to more learning and also relieve a tough situation the student may be having.
I used to be "Limitless" in my after school activities with students. I was involved with sports, fundraising, and after school clubs. Now that I have my own son who has a busy schedule it is definitely more difficult. Even if I can't be there I can be sure to find out what kinds of things they do out of school and talk about them to make connections with my students.
Sara, I agree that it’s harder to be involved when you have children of your own. I definitely don’t do as much as I did before kids! I love that you still talk to them about it and make those connections when you aren’t able to be there.
I also used to be Limitless :) But I live on the far south side with a busy middle school son and high school daughter who are both involved in several activities and I've lost the freedom to be AS involved in scholars' activities.
Sara- I agree with you having conversations with your students really helps us to get to know them. I usually had kids talking to me at recess and I learned at lot about them then.
I agree that making a point to take in interest in what your students are interested in, is so important. I would say this is even more important if this student is "difficult" in your class. Seeing them in a different light other than, "the talker" can be beneficial to you as a teacher. This is my third year teaching and definitely something I want to do this year. In the past I have been the "Clueless" character and got so caught up in figuring out this whole teaching thing.
I agree that this is a very important teacher "strategy" in order to connect with the most "difficult" students in the classroom. Once you make these personal investments, these specific students tend to be your biggest student leaders and allies.
Give yourself a pass for being the movie title "Clueless" your first few years of teaching. This profession takes a lot of personal time to gather your style and attention. My first few years I was so involved with my students and coaching, that I did not complete all of the new teacher requirements. Balance and focus is key. Thank you for joining the education career field!!!
I agree with the quote from the book. Whenever I have coached or held a after school club or attended a student's outside event, the student (s) have not only enjoyed it but also improved in class. Not only the students in my class but also students from the building that were involved showed more respect throughout the building. I also enjoyed the relationship that was developed because of the support. The students really appreciate this and even after they leave your class they will remember and appreciate it. I would say I use to be Limitless but now I am The Game Plan. Sohn'a Duff PLA@103
I agree! The impact is beyond just your own classroom. Students in the school notice and see that you care beyond the classroom! I have students from years ago that still say what an impact me attending events had on them and the school year as a whole. I think it is great that you are so involved but are now more of the Game Plan. Teaching is exhausting and requires so much! It is important to set boundaries and have an action plan in place. I found myself my first year teaching spreading myself too thin and had to switch to having a game plan mindset, too! Keep it up!
Action 1: Yes, students will feel more connected to you and will want to meet your expectations if you lead, participate, or watch an after or before school activities with them. In the past I've been a Girl Scout Leader, Club Sponsor, ticket collector, dance chaperone, concession stand volunteer, spectator at sports & theater/musicals, tutor, etc. Students love to make connections & get to know their teachers better too! Action 2: In the past, Limitless because I lived very close to the school. Now, Game Plan... because I live almost an hour away.
I agree with you on The Game Plan. I also live about 30-40 minutes away from school so sometimes getting to events when I have my own children with their own events can be challenging.
Mrs. Shafer, I have observed the last two years your extracurricular activities and I think they would be described as limitless. You have given thestudents and the school so much joy and help through your fundraisers and family events. I think you are a master at this hack, and a teacher to be watched if they would like to improve on this hack. See you soon.
Action 1: I totally agree that scholars will feel more connected. I think this also gives them a chance to see us a "human". They really get a kick out of seeing you out with your family. Many times that will help scholars see that you do care about them and will have develop a closer relationship and help with behavior.
Action 2: This past school year I would have to say Game plan, I had a plan for activities however we ended early and didn't get a chance to have our events.
Action #1: I agree with the statement. Students respect when their teacher sees them as more than a student, taking interest in them beyond their academic performance in the classroom. It provides a way to see our students shine. These moments are key to having non-academic topics to utilize as a specific analogy, reference or comparison especially when the course work becomes hard. This type of teacher behavior demonstrates, “I see you and acknowledge your humanity, talents and passions beyond performing well in my class.”
This past school year I agreed to attend an Oratorical contest held at a community church, where I was asked to be a judge. Several of my students were competing. Many of the students and parents were shocked. They were so very excited to see me outside of the school building. I think that they believe educators live at school and never leave. They spoke about the contest for weeks, which allowed me to have a talking point and a means to motivate the students while celebrating their success.
~Charmaine Jennings, PLA Training Specialist
Action #2: The Game Plan best describes my current involvement in extracurricular activities. Earlier in my career I would have rated myself as limitless. Once I became a parent I had to find a new way to show my students that I care about their academic performance in my class. I began to integrate more project based learning with arts integrated pedagogy. This allowed them to utilize sports, fine arts, and other skills in a way that highlighted their interests and strengths. I love www.educationcloset.com and the many arts integrated resources. Arts integrated lessons have helped to bring the extracurricular skills and interest to the classroom.
I totally agree here. When I was teaching from home online, it was easier for me to get to field trips, dances and other events because I was at a school where they encouraged us to bring our own children. It was definitely limitless. Now that I'm teaching at a different type of school, it's much harder to attend every event. Sarah Castle - A+ Arts Academy
Action 1: I very much agree with the quote from the book. I am all about building relationships first. I know students love to see their teachers beyond the classroom and it makes for a good relationship with the students and their families. I loved the idea of an event calendar so I know what events are coming up for students. I also try and volunteer for events at school such as our Father/Daughter dance so that I can connect with other students in the school as well.
Action 2: I would say my movie connection would be "The Game Plan." With 2 children of my own with very busy schedules it's not always easy or possible for me to attend multiple events but I think with the event calendar it will help me to be able to plan better.
Hi Anna! I completely agree with your views on the event calendar! I will be using that hack within my classroom and I think it will, as the chapter notes, bring a stronger sense of community to my room. As teachers, it is so easy to forget what extracurricular activities are occurring - so the event calendar will be a helpful visual to my students and myself!
I agree that having a family outside of school with active children make it very difficult be involved at school at night. I going to try the same and plan ahead to attend more events.
Anna, I also agree that an Event Calendar would be extremely helpful. Last year when we were actually in school, it was really hard to keep all the dates of each team's games straight. I'd have to get each schedule from each Coach and then figure out who's games I could attend each week. When you currently have all of one grade a semester in your regular classes and two more grades in a mixed class, it makes it hard to sort which of the three girls' basketball teams you can see play each week!
Sarah Castle - A+ Arts Academy I do agree with the statement. My students are in a class called drumline. When I show up to their competitions is really does make a difference to them. They know they have my unconditioinal support. They also love basketball and we have just recently started playing a league. I had to miss their games, but I plan on attending this year. We also talk about football during the season as well. They really are surprised that I know a lot about the game. I also have a board at the front of the room with all their schedules of events and I make sure to talk about them the next day in class. I would say my movie title would be The game plan.
Hey Sarah! I love the bulletin board idea! I think that is a great idea for you and the class to see what events their classmates are participating in. I think I am going to steal that idea for my own classroom!
Hey Sarah! I love the bulletin board idea! I think that is a great idea for you and the class to see what events their classmates are participating in. I think I am going to steal that idea for my own classroom!
Sarah, What a great idea with the bulletin board! I think that this shows the scholars that you see all the events they are in and want to encourage them in any way that you can. Jenina Sorenson PLA@103
I also like the bulletin board idea although I wonder how this would go over with the population of scholars I teach. Most of my students are not involved in extracurricular activities. A small handful are involved in football, baseball, and gymnastics though they are activities not connected to the school. I am concerned a calendar of activities might make those who don't participate in anything feel left out. My level of attending scholar activities is Clueless mostly due to my own children and their activities. I wish that our school offered more extracurricular activities as it would be much easier to attend events. I always make a point during our morning meetings to talk about scholar interests and extracurriculars and might just have to add this bulletin board idea to our classroom even if it serves just as a reminder to ask them how it went. Cathy Branch, Middlebury Academy
I'm glad you mentioned that the board may make other scholar's feel left out. That would definitely be a conversation to have in class. Maybe you could explain that it doesn't have to just be sports, it could be anything happening in their lives. I also wish that my school had more after school activities offered for our scholars, but we are such a small school it's tough.
I do wish our school offered more extracurricular activities for students to get involved in. We have a few teams, but it would be nice to highlight some of the outside activities students participate in that may not be school related. Perhaps a team dedicated to afterschool activities can be implemented in the future.
Action 1: In general, I agree with the quote. Connecting with students outside of the classroom has an impact that is 10-fold within the classroom. It shows them you truly care about who they are not just test scores or the work they produce. I’m not sure if those connections, as stated in the quote, make it easier for the teacher to have high exceptions however. I actually believe that statement contradicts Hack 2. But regardless, this hack is by far one of my favorites! I used it as a classroom teacher and in my current role as Culture and Trauma Informed Specialist. Children need connection. We are neurobiologically wired for connection. Furthermore, according to Howard Bath, the 2nd pillar of trauma informed care is connection, with the first being safety (i.e. think procedures, routine and consistency). As a classroom teacher, I made it to almost all school events. This was a bit easier than middle school events because we did not have a basketball team, cheer team, football etc. These events included dances, fall/spring festivals, talent shows, and choir performances and more. In addition, I had many student athletes who I made an appoint to attend at least one game every year. I worked with parents to get the schedule and would show up to basketball games, football games, baseball games, dance competitions. The look of pure joy on both parent and student faces was enough, but then then paired with the outcomes in the classroom-AMAZING! I love how this chapter gave practical steps including talking about the event at school the next day and rationale for attending/pushback. I also, really loved the Event Board! Wow! That must really make scholars feel special to see their events posted instead of test scores!!!!!! Wish I would have done that! Which leads me into… Action 2: I would say I fall into the title Game Plan. Some of my colleagues when I was teaching may have categorized me as Limitless because I went to so many events both school associated and not, but I did have boundaries. Scholars had to give me schedules in advance and could not ask me the week of the event. (It was well known in the school that I attended events regularly and students outside of my classroom started asking me to come so I has to set some boundaries.) School events were nonnegotiable in my calendar, but other events I planned out around location and my personal calendar. It is 100% possible to attend student events and truly the results are amazing. It’s like the book says, even if none of the events interest you, your students do and that’s why you go! I started attending not because of classroom management but because my students asked. The benefits were, well are, exponential.
It is great to see the faces of scholars when they see you at an event. When families see you out of the classroom, they see how much you value their scholar. I think it's also important to make sure that we are offering a variety of activities for scholars to showcase their talents. It might be nice to have a graffiti wall at the beginning of the school year where scholars write down their interests and then the staff can divide and conquer when coming up with clubs and activities.
I like that idea. See the interests of the scholars and get a team of teachers, possibly grade level, to attend these events. Dividing and conquering is way less stressful!
I agree with the comment on the looks on students faces when they see you outside of the classroom. I have run across students in grocery stores and they look like I should not be there. They must think we stay in the classroom and never leave it.
I used to be Limitless :) But I live on the far south side in Whiteland (I'm in the Indy schools) with a busy middle school son and high school daughter who are both involved in several activities and I've lost the freedom to be AS involved in scholars' activities. However, I will say that any time a teacher/staff member can attend a game/activity and show that scholar some support, it almost always helps in building relationships. Even if I can't attend as often as I like, I still ask about games/activities and listen/ask questions so the scholar knows I care. When I taught general education AND when I taught alternative education, I would connect with parents and ask about games/activities. If there were things the coaches were working on that I could also work on in class (and soooo many of the parents would pass that info along to coaches and let the coaches know things the scholar was working on in class) I have had several coaches work with me on behavior issues. I also like to let the scholars use the leadership skills they may be learning in their extra curricular activities to take leadership roles in the classroom. I would like to attend some activities this year (although, as an instructional coach having the whole building of kids as "my kids" makes it hard to pick and choose) but even if my own kids' activities get in the way, I think connecting with scholars over their outside of school activities is a great way to build relationships.
Amanda, Building those relationships with parents is so important. I have found that when I am involved in their child's events outside of the school setting it helps my relationship with them too. I also feel like it shows scholars that their teachers and parents are both there to support them and encourage them. And by being involved outside of the classroom setting I think helps the parents see you not only as their child's classroom teacher but someone who will do anything for their child. Jenina Sorenson PLA@103
I love the idea of working with coaches. I have been on both sides of this and love the impact it has had on not only my students but my personal children as well! Jenelle Miller PLA103
I totally agree with the quote from the book For two reasons. I experienced Project Read with some of my scholars after school every week for almost the entire year for 2 years. Theses scholars didn't know me before Project Read but once they did know me they'd give me hugs when they saw me in the hall, say "hi" and introduced me to their friends in school. This expanded my number of friends even more as they also introduced me to their friends. They begged me the second year to do Project Read again, which I gladly rejoined. Scholars I didn't even know would come to my room and ask if they could be in my room too. Or they'd ask me to do Project Read with them. I made a lot of new friends of the scholars just by reading with them for an hour each week. I am a Spec Education teacher but they wanted to spend time with me in my room. They just wanted my attention and to be acknowledged. They didn't care that I taught Special Education. The second experience took a short amount of time but made a lasting impression that seems to made a big difference to so many At the beginning of the year I went into each classroom and introduced myself to the scholars. I told them that when they see me in the hall they can wave to me quietly. I constantly got waves and hugs from scholars I didn't even know. But they knew me and it made them feel loved and cared for. I want to do this ever year.
My book is Limitless. I usually put in an extra 2 hours each day at school. I also buy and donate clothing to the clothing closet for scholars who don't have. Kay Clabaugh
When you learn as much as you can about your scholars, you can incorporate their interests into the subject areas. You can use interests in math problems, topics for writing, collections of books for reading. Small little changes make a big difference.
I would say I connect more with the movie "The Game Plan." I have mixed feelings on visiting events, which they also said would have pushback from teachers. I think it's more important to spend time one-n-one having conversations. If you cannot attend their events, use morning meetings to give them opportunities to share moments, photos, or videos with the rest of the class. During my last full year with scholars, it was one that had the best relationships with scholars. They said I saw them as people and made coming to school so much better.
I love how you mention spending time with scholars and making connections doesn't have to be just about attending their events. It's all about making them feel like people and just taking time to listen to them can be just as meaningful, if not more, than attending events. Every moment counts!! Thanks for mentioning this Charlene Long-Trix Academy
I believe that you should always find a way to make time for your scholars. I know that this is very hard because most teachers have families and other things outside of school. When I first started teaching, I would help with almost every after school sport or function. I truly miss that. It would help me get to know the older scholars because I was a Kindergarten teacher. But, I still believe staying for a few school activities a year really shows scholars that you care and it builds a connection. I am not Limitless because I have my family to care for but I am also not Clueless. I try and help when I can by staying for a few events or coming in early. I am looking forward to trying to help with more events this school year.
Action 1: I agree with this quote. An experience that I had to support this statement took place about two years ago. I had a scholar who displayed a few behavioral challenges in several classes. She was disengaged in the learning process in regards to math. She would act out at the start of the math block each day in hopes of being put out of class. I overheard her speaking with a few classmates about praise dancing she did at church. About a month later, I attending a service at her church to support her. I stayed after the service to speak with her family and made a few connections. Once we returned to school, her behavior started to change in all classes. She would ask for help in areas that were difficult. The scholar started to see me as a family member and not just a teacher.
Action 2: The Game-plan. I love to support my students, but it can be challenging at times. I have four children, with three of them under the age of 13. In order to support them in the way that I would like, my IA and I create plans. One plan is I encourage them before all games, Mr. Burns (the best IA in the world) would attend games that I couldn’t and record them for me, and the next day, we would all talk about it for our morning meetings.
LaTiesha, What a great idea about taping the events that you cannot attend! As a former elementary physical education teacher, teaching all the scholars in the building it made it challenging at times to make it to all the events. As much as I would have loved to make it to all the events of all the scholars I just couldn't make some events. But, having someone tape them so that you can share in the experience is a great way to do this. Thanks :) Jenina Sorenson PLA@!03
I love your idea of taping the events you cannot attend as well! Sometimes it just isn't feasible to attend everything, but even just acknowledging the student's accomplishment can go a long way. I will also have the parents send me pictures if I cannot attend as well! Brittany Connett PLA@93
I really like the idea of having parents send me a picture or two. At Halloween, I always ask the students to send me a picture of them in their costume. I still have pictures from some students! Gale Reed PLA@93
Action 1: I totally agree with this quote. When students are able to see that you care about them outside of school, they are going to start caring about you in the classroom. At PLA103, I am the Athletic Director and it is one of the best parts of my job. I am able to see not just my students but a lot of the students doing something that they are interested in. I also was able to coach a few sports and it was amazing to create a family like group with the team. Another thing that I loved to do was go to other student's sport games. It was great to sit in the stands with parents so I could get to know them better and they could see me somewhere other than school!
Action 2: I think at the moment I am Limitless. My students are my life right now because I don't have any of my own kids, but I can see myself shifting toward Game-Plan when I start to grow my family. It can be hard to juggle extra curricular events, but it is amazing to see the difference between a student who knows you after school and who just knows you at school. I love my students like they are my own kids and I feel like if you make that known to them, they will respect you. :)
Paige, I think that is so fun that you get to also be the athletic director at your school! I absolutely agree that it is great for the students, and parents like you said, to see that side of us outside of school. Being able to sit and talk with them and get to know them and vice versa is so rewarding. Thank you for sharing this!
Action 1: I totally agree with this quote. When scholars are able to see that you not only care about them in the classroom but outside of the classroom they grow closer relationships with you. I love when I get to share in outside experiences with my scholars. I have been to sporting events with them, dances with them, and with some of them I have even been to church with them to celebrate in their special moments outside of the classroom. It makes you feel connected to them in ways than just as their classroom teacher. I makes them see that you have a life outside the classroom as well. I also think that when tough things happen in their lives if you have made it a point to make it these moments they are more than willing to share with you what is happening because they trust you and have that relationship with you.
Action 2: I think that I am in between Game Plan and Limitless. In my current role as a physical education teacher, where you are teaching all the students in the school it is sometimes hard to get to all of your students events. Therefore you need to have a Game Plan in place. You have to know when and where the students are having their events and make sure that it will fit into your schedule. I also am Limitless because if I can make it I will be there to support you and cheer you on. I have also coached soccer for our scholars in the past. Along with hold after school activities for them like Girl Scouts, Science Club, and SHEors. I think by showing your scholars you care for them not just in the classroom but outside of the classroom you grow stronger bonds with them. And not just them but, their family members. I have such strong relationships with my scholars families that it rings true that it takes a village to raise a child. Jenina Sorenson PLA@103
"I have such strong relationships with my scholars families that it rings true that it takes a village to raise a child". I love that you said that and it definitely does take a village, and it ever so important now a days many scholars lack that TLC at home some as teacher's showing them that we care outside of class goes a long way. Kudos, to you being able to be apart of scholars life spiritually as well. Leshun Horne PLA@JonesClark
I most certainly agree that being involved and connecting with students outside of the classroom is really important. Not only does it show scholars you care about their education, but their lives outside of the classroom. When I taught fifth, I attended student performances and sporting events. It brought so much joy to my heart to hear them tell their friends Mrs.Horne is her. The next day I could still hear them bragging with excitement to their classmates about me attending their events.
The movie title that best goes with me is “clueless”. The reason I would say this is because I did not attend many events this past year. I was expecting then I had a newborn a two year old and a 10 year old so it was a challenge this year, I am trying to get back involved with after school activities.
I absolutely think that being involved in extracurricular activities outside of school can support a child in the classroom. This alone shows the student that you are interested in what they are doing and want to support them not only in the classroom, but outside the classroom as well. I have been a volleyball coach multiple times, even at a school my students didn't attend. For them, just seeing their teacher outside of school supporting others while doing something they love, too, is amazing.
As for the movies, I would say that I am "The Game Plan." Like I said, I've been a coach before and I coached a 5th and 6th grade volleyball team with 12 girls. I definitely had to have a plan to ensure that everyone had a chance to play and show off their skills, but that they also were having fun and learning from myself and each other. It was a challenge, but so rewarding and so fun!
My HS football coach recognized that some of his players, myself included, were in band. Coming from a very small town and small school district in Texas where everything stops on Friday night when football season is in you can imagine the set up. But my senior year, I was a field soloist and we had contest coming. Typically at halftime I would shed my pads throw my Jersey on grab my tenor sax and perform with the band...I would miss the talk in the Fieldhouse. The Friday night before Saturday marching contest when I lined up with the band to start the show I looked at the stands across the way and my team was in the stands ready to cheer us on and to support me and the other two teammates in the band. We were ahead 32-0 at half and Coach McGonagle recognized that the band competed 1 time in a season yet was always there for the team. Is that the same thing this hack is suggesting? Maybe not, but what it did was teach me something very important, something I do as often as I can. I go to games, I was an athlete and I know what that means; I go to concerts, I was in band and I know what that means; I go to the live stock shows because my kids are participating etc. My last school was a small town that played games long distances away. I drove over an hour to get there from my home but three of the schools we played were fairly close to my house so I would go to these away games. Teaching middle school and having students that parents just could not make the out of town games...but the had Mr. Martin there... I have done scoreboard at volleyball games, worked concessions at soccer games, been the loudest one cheering at a concert and helped them clean up mess after a dance. It all makes a huge difference.
I completely agree with the quote from the text. If we want to, truly, build meaningful relationships with our students - we should attend school events in which they are involved in. I am a first-year teacher, so I may be a bit "Clueless" as to how involved I should be outside of class (I want to attend everything and help out with everything, but I need to also set limits for myself - for no teacher can "do it all"). However, during my student teaching, I took on co-directing the stage crew at my middle school & it was such an awesome experience. My students' motivation increased significantly as well! What you put into your relationships with your students, you will definitely receive within your classroom. After helping run an extracurricular activity, I have been inspired to manage other extracurricular activities (such as improv & acting clubs, book clubs, etc.).
I think my mindset for my first year of teaching is "The Game Plan." For my first year, I definitely have to be organized as to what is happening within my class & try not to be so overwhelmed with the demands of teaching. I want to have a plan that is flexible & able to be modified (because life happens), but I also want to not wavier on the standards I have for myself as an educator. My students come first and I definitely want to ensure that I am providing them with a good education in my classroom, while also supporting them outside of the school day.
C.Louketis,A+ Arts Academy I truly agree with the text about if your students know that you care about them outside of the classroom,they will be more willing to show you that they care about their work inside the classroom. One year I had mostly boys in my classroom and all they wanted to talk about was basketball. I ask them who they played for and they said a recreation center team, so I told them that I would come to one of their games. I did and you should have seen their faces, they were overjoyed that I was there. They couldn't believe I was there. That visit to their game changed the way they saw me as just their teacher, they saw me as a person who cared about what they were interested in. It was a new level of respect in my classroom. The rest of the year went smoothly.
I agree with the quote, if your students see you actively involved in events outside of school it's showing to them that you care about them as a person and then they would be more willing to care about their work in the classroom. I noticed that when I was involved in the school play at my previous school as a teachers assistant, those students that were in the play tried harder when I worked with them during class. I would have to say that I am The Game Plan. I tried more of an effort to attend activities outside of school. Sometimes it is really hard for me to do that with having a 3 year old son who has ASD. He also attends school so trying to be there for him at his school functions as well as be present for my students and their school functions. I try to make it to events, especially if I know that my students will be participating in them.
I completely agree that connecting with students outside of school strengthens the relationship and builds a stronger bond. I love attending events outside of school because it gives me a chance to learn more about students’ personalities, and their interests. Cheering them on at sporting events or watching them shine on stage makes me feel closer to my students, and shows them that I care about them as people. One year I taught a 7th grade at-risk math class, which was made up of 8 girls and 15 boys. My students felt they couldn’t achieve, and that it really didn’t matter. I started the year with a focus on getting to know them, building trust, and letting them know that I cared about them both in and out of school. I had two boys who had the reputation of being “rebels” and “turning a class out” by being disruptive, disrespectful, and disengaged. I prepared myself………… Sure enough, they challenged me on day 1 by coming in late and refusing to do anything I asked of them. They were used to being yelled at by teachers and being sent to the office for behavior issues. They automatically thought I would treat them the same way, until I started taking a personal interest in them. They both loved football so I started attending their games (making sure they saw me and heard me cheering), and I also started watching weekly football games on TV. I started class each day with a quick “what’s up” session, and I made it a point to bring up football. I also created opportunities for my students to be successful, despite them being 2 years behind in math skills. We celebrated every gain, whether it was simply playing some music and dancing or me passing out a small treat. My students knew that giving up was not an option, and that I would never give up on them. Immediately my two “rebels” became calm and cooperative in class and began to embrace learning. When asked by other staff why they behaved so well for me, the boys would always say that I loved them, and that I wouldn’t let them give up.
The movie that best describes my current level of involvement with extracurricular activities is The Game Plan. While I would love to be limitless in my involvement, I have other responsibilities now that require me to choose which events will further relationship building, and hopefully further the progress of students.
I agree that connecting with the scholars makes a huge difference in how they respond to you and their academics. You need to show you care about who they are. I teach little ones so they are not as involved in extra curricular activities but going to an occasionally dance or reward party would make a difference. These scholars need to know we do care about them. During this stay at home time, I delivered items to the scholars houses. When they opened the door and saw their teacher outside of the classroom, the scholars faces were priceless. As for movie title, this year is would say I was “ Clueless” I was only with them 8 weeks and I have four active kids at home. This year I hope to be “ Game Plan” and try to attend a few activities. It’s difficult with my family too. Mindi Spychalski PLA 103
I agree with the quote 100%. I know being at PLA for my first year was challenging as a new teacher, but I did my very best to attend the events that I knew about. I always told my scholars to let me know when they had a game, a recital, etc that I could attend.
Specifically, I attended a 5th Grade Basketball game this season. When the kids saw me walk in they were amazed. They yelled my name and made that I knew that they knew I was there. I would make the case that it is important to the scholars when you show up to an event, but seemingly, the night I attended the game, it was the parents who were blown away that I came.
Some of the parents told me that a teacher had never attended an event for their child. Talk about building relationships and bridges. When you can win over the trust of a parent and they see that you care enough to attend their child's event, it will speak volumes. I didn't attend a ton of events the past year, but I saw the impact it had when I did attend an event. I would like to make a better effort to attend at least event for each of my scholars this year. They are all involved int things inside and outside of school, so the possibilities are there.
Movie Title:
I feel like I'm not clueless, but I am also not unlimited. I have a game plan for sure when it comes to attending events. This plan will have to be adjusted this upcoming year, especially with a newborn in the house. I am excited to make it work so that I can see my kids in action.
Another area that I did not mention in my initial post and have not, at this point seen others, is that these opportunities are ideal to make parental connections as well. I am not a basketball fan at all but my kids do not know that and their parents think I am insane about basketball. So what that does for me is it gives me credibility with parents as well as their children/ my kids. It makes my kids parents want to know me, want to talk to me and ultimately on my side. So when I need to talk to them about their child they already know I am backing them.
I agree with the above quote. When you connect with students outside of the classroom, it will make a positive impact within the classroom. I have never attended one of my scholars' extracurricular activities. I think teaching at a K-8 school puts us at a disadvantage in regards to this hack, because the only after-school programs we offer are boy scouts, latchkey, and tutoring. I worked with 4 scholars from my classroom twice a week for 2 hours after school for tutoring this past school year. Even though we were still partaking in an educational activity, this extra time spent together on a more personal level did make an impact within the classroom setting. We were able to spend time together working on educational skills through fun games and activities. Two of the scholars did not have behavioral issues, but I saw their confidence and level of participation increase. Another scholar's behavior, confidence, participation, and grades all improved over time. Working with these scholars on a more personal level, having fun and getting to know each other better positively impacted our relationship in the classroom and the scholars greatly looked forward to tutoring. Cathy Branch, Middlebury Academy
I taught pre-K for 6 years in a private preschool in the community that I live in. It was very easy to see my students in the community because activities were very close to home. If I was on the soccer fields for my own children, I would intentionally leave 10-15 minutes early to hit the 4/5 year old fields to look for students (past and present). Or I would go over at half time and at the end. The younger children had shorter games and were staggered so that it was easy to see them. As well, my daughter took dance at a local studio where many of my students attended. Watching the little girls dancing in their leotards was priceless! When I would see my students at activities, I would make it a point to stop and make sure they saw me, talk to them if it was appropriate, and cheer them on! It was a big deal for the preschool child to see me at an activity and then have a short conversation in class! I felt more personally connected to the child and their family. It allowed me to get to know their families more intimately too, by meeting both parents and siblings. Many of the students had divorced parents and this often provided an opportunity to meet both parents or sets of parents. Our scholars talk about people that they live with daily and we can go through an entire year and not ever meet or see them. Personal activities can really create a sense of community.
Currently, I am not as involved as I could or should be. The city where I teach is large and unfamiliar. There is somewhat of a concern for safety without knowing many parts of the city. From my home, it is not convenient to get to many of the youth fields in the large city where I work. I have asked scholars and their parents for football and basketball schedules but have not had any parents follow through. I only had two scholars this year participate in organized sports. Most scholars are involved in neighborhood pick-up games or games at parks near their home. At my previous job, I was The Game Plan. While I do attend all of our school's family nights and events, I am not very good at attending personal events that scholars have outside of school. I know that being involved impacts our relationships with scholars positively. My room is popular on family nights because scholars know that I usually have something fun going on in my room. My current and former scholars will bring older and younger siblings to visit and see what I have planned. No matter how much I don't "prefer" an event, I show up with my game face and a fun activity because it may just be the highlight of any one of our scholar's day, week, month, or year. Michelle Lisco, Middlebury Academy
I would have to agree heavily with the quote above. I have found that the more you seem to be involved in a students life, the more they trust you and believe that you actually care about them as an individual. And as stated in the book, that does not even have to always involve actually attended things, it could be something as simple as asking a student how their band concert went the weekend prior. Showing interest, and just talking to that student will prove that you care. As of now, my fiancé and I have been able to make it a priority to visit some of the extracurricular activities of my students. Of course it is easier when I do not personally have kids of my own yet, and expect that to cause things to be a bit more challenging, but as for now I would say the balance has been pretty good. I am more of a sports guy, so its pretty easy for me to attend sporting events as I find them very enjoyable. But recently I sort of did the unusual and went to a two hour school play. The students I went there to support were elated that I showed interest and attended, and I actually walked away very impressed! I work hard to try and balance different things, as I would truthfuly rather be attending sporting events but making an effort to show love to ALL extracurriculars. This sends the trust between students and teacher through the roof. I would describe my movie title as The Game Plan. Since making an effort to do more, and not having my own personal family just yet, it has given me the ability to be generous with my time and attend different things to support different students. I have found a love for all the uniqueness of every individual and their interest and have grown a lot personally with expressing my care for that individual. And I have found this to be a very rewarding process. -Wes Wenning, Middlebury Academy
I absolutely agree with the above quote. When you make outside connections with scholars it makes your connection in the classroom so much stronger. In past experience the bond your form with a scholar through outside connections lasts so much longer than the school year. I still have connections with scholars that I attended outside events.
Unfortunately many of my scholars don't participate in any outside activities and not many sports activities are offered at our school. The few sports activities that were offered interacted with my second job and I was unable to attend the games. I have been invited to a few church activities and birthday events and definitely made strong bond with those scholars.
We do host many family nights and holiday activities which I have been a part of all of them and have built bonds with many families and scholars that way.
Also through this online learning situations there have been many bonds made while video conferencing and getting to see scholars homes and families during lessons.
I fully agree that when taking interest in activities that scholars are involved in outside of school truly helps you to connect with the scholars on a different level. Not only does it help with your rapport and connection, but the scholars I feel develop more respect for you, because you are taking an interest in the activities they're involved in and not just focused on them as students. By attending outside events and taking interest in the scholars' lives outside of school I agree that it also helps students to be more accepting of the high expectations you set for them in the classroom. Throughout my teaching experience I have attended football games, basketball games, gymnastic events, and dance recitals of my students. However, looking back I wish that I would have attended so many more, because after reading about this Hack I seem the greater benefits of attending the events.
As for the movie title that best describes my level of involved with extracurricular activities I would have to say it's "The Game Plan". I would know about the students events and much of the time try my best to attend the events that they told me about, however I felt like I always had to "force" it into my schedule. Not because I didn't want to go, but because a great deal of the time I was teaching I was also attending graduate school or getting my reading endorsement or working a second job, and most recently raising my son. It felt as though I has so much on my plate as it was and attending one of my student's events outside of school wasn't always top priority unfortunately.
I so agree with you that the balance can sometimes be off. I take care of my aging mother and I always get complaints from her about always being gone or busy. Last year she was in the hospital 6 times. It is hard to do it all.
I so agree with you that the balance can sometimes be off. I take care of my aging mother and I always get complaints from her about always being gone or busy. Last year she was in the hospital 6 times. It is hard to do it all.
I do agree with the quote that being a part of what students get involved in after school can make an impact on what happens in the classroom. However, I have taught lower elementary at many schools and they do not have activities for this age group. I did try to get some kind of physical activity going at a school but the school wouldn't allow it. I have told kids that if they have a game or activity that they would like me to go to that they just have to write down the date, time and location and I would try to go.
As for the movie title it would be Clueless. I take care of my aging mother and it doesn't leave any time for me to really attend events. The school doesn't really offer anything for the ages that I teach. I do attend the various school wide events that happen and I do sit with some of the families and that makes a difference. The online learning has made a bit of a difference with getting to know what goes on at home and such. I would be curious of what it would be like if we got back into the classroom.
"Teaching takes time and energy!" No less, teaching is an act of the heart. I believe attending events and activities will have a great impact on student-teacher relationships. Getting to know your students as a person and not just a pupil will further build trust in the classroom. When a student sees who are beyond the classroom, it shows you care for them. Just think of the excitement they'll have the next day in the classroom after your shared experience together! Some of my greatest memories outside the classroom are daughters and dads dances,book bingo, doughnuts for dad, ice cream socials, science fairs, and dunk jams- just to name a few.
The title that best describes my involvement in past events and activities as a teacher would be "Game Plan." Now that I am a Reading Interventionist, I would say my new title is "Limitless."
Action #1: I have many examples of the impact of going to extracurricular activities has on the students. One would be a somewhat disruptive student in my 11th grade English class a few years ago. He thought everything we did was boring, the expectations were optional, and teachers were the opponent in the game of school. He was also on the varsity baseball team. I asked him when his next game was, and it was that Saturday morning. I went to the game, and my presence was very noticeable. Unlike football and basketball, which tend to have bigger followings, there was no one at this game but a few parents and me. The student was surprised to see me there, as I'm sure other teachers had told him, "Sure, I'll make it to one of your games." Monday in class, and from then on, his entire demeanor changed in my classroom. All of a sudden, he cared about my opinion, would stay after to talk about all kinds of subjects, and when he signed his letter of intent to play ball for a junior college in Ohio, he came in to tell me all about it. I did go see a few more games, and wished I could have made one of his JC games, but he did come back and visit me and told me all about his experiences. All of this would not have happened had I not given up a Saurday morning.
Action #2: Limitless My first go around in high school, I coached year around (cross country, basketball, baseball), and I always came home very late, and was rarely home on weekends. It was just a given that it was something I loved, and was a big part of the reason I went into education. My second stint in high school, I was AP, and I went to everything: games, plays, proms, awards ceremonies, graduations, etc. I enjoyed every minute, and it made my time as an administrator during the day so much easier.
Connecting to your students outside of the classroom is so important! Students and parents need to see you as a "real" person. They also need to know that you have an interest in the student not just in school. As a teacher, I used to attend my students sports events all the time. They were so happy and amazed when they would see my face in the stands. This helped build my relationship with those students. They were more willing to listen to my directions and follow them. I would advice any educator to put fourth the effect to build relationships outside of the school environment. If I had to describe my involvement based off a movie title it would be between Game Plan and Limitless.
Action 1: My first year of teaching was in a middle school. Along with all the usual first year struggles, I taught the lowest group of readers in 6th grade. I was constantly looking for ways to connect with them that year, but my eyes were opened when I agreed to help coach the track team in the spring. I agreed to help a friend even though I knew very little about track. I developed a different relationship with the students. I could tell they saw me in a different light. I would describe it as "they did not see me as the enemy, I was on their side." The dynamic of the relationship changed completely.
Action 2:
Game Plan would be the movie title to describe my level of involvement in extra curricular activities. I almost chose Limitless because I do think there are so many opportunities to get to know the students from extra curricular activities, but I thought having a Game Plan described me more so in the past few years. I recognize that building a positive relationship with your students through showing an interest in their extra curricular activities will help make the challenges in the classroom easier to overcome.Therefore, having a game plan to accomplish this is needed.
I think it is wonderful that you tried something out of your area of expertise. I believe that's setting a wonderful example for your scholars to do the same!
I completely agree with the above quote. I believe it is mentioned in the book as well, but there is something about a student seeing a teacher outside of school that makes them seem more "real." I was been invited to a few students extracurricular activities or birthday parties, and the students are just so excited to even invite you in the first place. I teach first grade so it is a little harder to find activities to attend that my students will also be participating. I do attend all school wide events, but unfortunately we do not offer anything for the littler students after school. I think the movie title that describes me best is Game Plan. I am going to make a plan to add a section to my weekly newsletter where parents can write in any events their child is participating in that I could attend. I would like to find a way to build that relationship and make a more meaningful connection if there is an event I could attend that is not a school wide fall festival. Brittany Connett PLA@93
It definitely is more difficult to support our younger kiddos when the school activities we have aren't geared towards them, but it's still wonderful that you attend the school wide events. Like the book said, even the students you may have in the future are noticing you there which I think is a great thing!
I agree it is hard to find activities to attend for the little ones. Our school doesn't have sports teams for first grade and many just don't have the means to take dance classes, theatre, and participate in community sports teams. I do know some teachers who will get permission from parents to take students to a museum, an ice cream shop, or McDonalds after school just so they have that extra time to bond. Dessalee Cook Greater Heights Academy
Finding activities for the younger grades is something I have struggled with so far in my career since I have only worked with kindergarten and first grade. My students would always talk about the activities their older siblings were involved in, but were to young to be involved in the activities themselves. A lot of people swear by home visits so that could be a possible option.
I like the idea of attending some of my students' activities. It is easier now because I don't have little kids involved with their own activities anymore. I do attend and participate in the fall festival at our school, along with the evening honor roll program, and the ice cream social. In the past I have attended basketball games that my students participated in. They do enjoy seeing their teachers come to their events! This should be a goal of mine this next year to try to attend more events. Gale Reed PLA@93
I agree that it's definitely easier to attend events now that my own kids are grown and moved out. It was always difficult to have to say no to kids when my boys had events or to miss my own kids events when there were required school events for work. I'm enjoying having an empty nest and still being able to go to sports games and other events that involve "my children". My first grandson is only a year old but I'm not looking forward to having to choose between his events and school kids events in the future. Grandson will definitely win those battles though.
I love the idea of an event calendar with in the classroom. This does make it harder have Primary but they do see it and have their parents email or send in schedules to be added. I know the kids love seeing their teachers outside of school. My own kids play multiple sports and they enjoy seeing their teachers at their games. The teachers coming to one game out of the season really puts a smile on their face. My kids remember the games and which teachers came.
Nicole, I also like the event calendar idea, especially as my school gets larger each year! It gets harder and harder to keep track of all of the different teams, who is playing home/away, who's games are close, etc. Add in trying to coordinate if someone can take pictures for Yearbook, and you can see why it would make sense to have it all in one place! I think it would be beneficial for students, staff, and families to have one.
I love the idea of attending scholars' extracurricular activity events. This is a tad difficult with primary since they're not old enough for the sports we due offer. I did like that he brought up school dances because that's one of my favorite events to attend. I love getting to see the scholars having a good time, and how exciting they get when they see me there. Movie Title: I feel like "Game Plan" is most fitting, but often times things don't go according to plan due to scheduling conflicts. I agree that it gives you another connection with that scholar and family to build rapport, so I do like to put those dates in my calendar regardless. Even if I'm unable to make it, it serves as a reminder to ask about it later on.
I think it is wonderful that you attend school dances. This really makes a lot of difference for the scholars. This shows that you are dedicated to them as a whole person and not simply as a grade in a book. I think in Primary grades it would be nice to attend birthday functions if invited. Melissa Bailey GVPLA
I truly enjoy attending my scholars' athletic (basketball, track) and academic events (spelling bee, IQ League, MathCon, etc). I have organized student-led poetry competitions and writing contests. My scholars also got a kick out of me bringing my son to games and events! Tricia- Middlebury Academy Akron, OH
Tricia, My students would ask me if I was going to go to their activities. They really wanted me there. I would go to as many as I could. I enjoyed talking to my parents too. The next day we would acknowledge the students that had an activity. DeEtta Crane Greater Heights Academy
Honestly, I've never seen any of the movies, but I'm guessing I'd be a "Game Plan" person as I try to juggle my own family with my "kids" aka scholars. Tricia- Middlebury Academy Akron, OH
Action 1: I agree with the quote. I have not connected with students out of the classroom like I should, but I know a teachers who does. She will finds ways to go to her student’s events whether they be on campus or off school grounds. She will also connects with parents constantly. Whether it be to praise students or reach out for parental advice on how to best support their child. She also has high expectations both in class and out of class for her students. I seldom heard her talk negative about any of her students. This teacher is one who I have tried to model, but I want to make this year the year I do it. After this Covid-19 experience I have done a lot of reflecting on my own practices as a teacher. I have made connections with students and parents like I have never done in the past and know I can see how important they are in order to be the teacher I want to be.
Action 2: The movie title that reflects my involvement is “Game Plan.” I live about 35 minutes from work and my day seems so long and the idea of staying longer can be tiresome. However, this upcoming year I want to really work on being more involved with the students out of the classroom so I can be like the teacher I spoke of earlier.
I had that same issue my third year of teaching. My commute was anywhere from 35-45+ minutes depending on traffic and if I had any errands to run. It made it really hard to stay for after school activities. Once I got used to my timing of when to leave, it helped me balance when I could stay and when I couldn't.
Action 1: I agree with the quote. It is easier to see a scholar as a whole person when we take the time to get to know them outside of academic time. I think that this is just as important for the scholar. If they see you are making an effort to show them you care, they are more likely to respect you and listen to your advice and lessons. Anytime a person feels seen they are more prone to pay closer attention. This will roll over into your discipline as well. If your scholars feel like you care, many issues will be addressed prior to becoming distractions within the classroom.
Action 2: The movie that reflects my involvement is probably the game plan. This is because I feel like I am learning how to balance my own life and the lives of my scholars. I have never had to actually balance my own personal life and engagement with students before as this is my first year. I am however coming up with ideas to where I can balance bringing my own children to any events asked of me. I practiced this last year during student teaching. My children came to the Halloween party with me. They got to walk around and trunk or treat alongside some of the kiddos from my classoom.
Balancing life and all things school related can be a difficult task. I love your idea of bringing your children to events. This is such a great way to show your students a snippet of your personal life. I do not have kids, but I have brought my mom and dad to various after school events and also on field trips. My students always get a kick out of seeing my family and learning that I have a mom and dad too even though I'm a "grownup."
I think that the quote is spot on. Students love to feel heard and seen outside of the classroom. Connecting with students outside of the classroom is a great way to show students you really care about them. When students feel cared for they are willing to work harder in the classroom and want to meet the expectations you have set for them. I have previously taught first grade and my students were not involved in a lot of extracurriculars because of their age. That means it was quite difficult to see students outside of the classroom. That being said, I went to every after school event to support any of my students that came. It was always funny to watch their reactions when they saw me in “normal” clothes. I would also bring my mom to some of the events and students loved to see that I had a mom just like them. After the events, my students would be so eager to get to school and talk about everything. I noticed that their attitudes were much more positive and excited to be interacting with me immediately following the event.
I would say the movie title that best describes my level of involvement is a little bit of “Clueless” and a little bit “Limitless.” I would say I am clueless because with students so young, I struggle to find ways to meet students outside of the classroom aside from home visits, which weren’t allowed at my previous school. I would say I also fit the limitless movie because I am very willing to do anything for my students. I would love to be able to go to as many events as I can. I feel like this might be a difficult task this year due to Covid, but I am still all in and ready to support my students in any way possible.
I totally agree with the quote. It is about to give and take. If want my students time and interest, I must also give my time and interest. It is hard to make time to attend my students extracurricular activities especially when my own kids have extracurricular activities almost at the same time. I remember a time when a student asked me to attend to his last game of the season. I had asked my daughter to find a ride to go back home so the I can make on time to the game. She refused because she also want me to see her cheering for her team. She agreed to come along to the game. We made it to the last decisive minutes of the game. The excitement of the moment with students, parents and other staff was priceless. Afterwards, we had so many conversations with my students and my own daughter. It was a win, win situation.
The movie that best describes me is "The Game Plan". At the beginning, I demand discipline as I knew it. It took to really get to know my students and realized that sometimes I needed to be like them. The following quote from the movie resides with me the most " You have been playing kid your entire life, I just joint the Dads' team" Being a transition to teaching teacher, It is taking me a lot of learning to be confident and enjoy teaching.
Action #1- As a classroom teacher, the first quarter was spent going above and beyond trying to build relationships with students. Hard work in the beginning of the year paid off towards the end. Of course, there were always a few students that took continued effort through the year. In my experience, taking time to work with students in small groups, listening to any of their concerns, and maintaining a genuine relationship with them always worked for me in gaining a student’s trust and respect.
Action #2- definitely “Game Plan”. I needed to balance between work and my own family.
I agree with the quote and love the idea of sharing outside events by videos to keep everyone updated. I realize that students love to share their ideas, what's happening at home or after school events. I am in the halls before school and the K thru first grade come down my halls past the library. That short contact with a high five, smile, comment starts my day and their day off in a positive manner.Project Read takes place in my library after school, this gives me time to interact with student at an off academic environment. I help when time allows or when volunteers aren't able to show up. Students know I care about them beyond teaching and it does affect their behavior and efforts when they are with me in any setting. It's building mutual respect by sharing a precious commodity---time ....that is often not given to our school population outside of school. Some of my student's send me thank you notes for listening to their concerns. One 5th grade students once said---we can talk about anything with you ---we like that. She knows I don't judge anyone---on their beliefs and customs and enjoy learning new things---that is my life philosophy and the students know that through our off academic discussions. Topic 2-movies---I haven't seen these movies but I believe I would fall into the middle rage as far a participation in outside activities. I live 45-50 minutes from school and arrive at school at around 6:50 to be ready for the 7:10 bus arrival. These student's came to my library last year to wait until the second round of buses arrived. We had time to talk at a more personal level. They often did their homework and I gave them help with their lessons and praised them for their efforts---continually telling them how smart they were in doing their work. I tried to give them special pages to use colored pencils with----3-D abstract art, as well as more simplified art pieces. Some chose to sleep and I respected that personal need as well. I believe next year that I will post an event calendar outside the library so that all students become familiar with activities outside the school hours. I would love to have a tape of the events running in one of my two trophy windows that I now use for library displays. This would show students some school spirit that goes on after school, pride in their school efforts and also see teachers attending these events, the successes of other students...etc. Jean Faillace TLJ Academy, Ft. Wayne, IN
Topic 1: I agree with the quote! Students are so excited when their teachers show up for their concerts, plays and sports activities. As far as in-school events, I try to attend as many as I can. I always get a smile and a wave from the soccer field, basketball court, baseball diamond, etc. Attending student events makes our relationships stronger because it shows how much we care. Therefore, students are more willing to go the extra mile in class. Topic 2: Game Plan. I have a family and my children are also involved in sports and acting. Although I enjoy supporting my students, I do not miss the activities my own children are participating in.
I too believe that family comes first, so having a Game Plan is a great way to ensure that you don't miss your child's events while committing to attend a scholars'
Hack 1: I believe that scholars love seeing their teachers at events outside of the classroom. My son plays baseball and his kindergarten, first grade and second grade teachers have all taken the time out of their busy Saturday and have come to watch him play. I know that he was happy to see that his teachers came to his game, but as a parent it really meant a lot to me to see them there. It meant that my child was more than just a student in their classroom, but he mattered to them and they wanted to invest some time into their relationship outside of the classroom.
Hack 2: Limitless - I have attended countless after school activities and games on Saturdays. I often times tell the scholar how much I enjoyed watching them play and I believe that it creates a bond between the scholar and myself.
I agree with quote because students need to see their teachers a real people. I work with the younger students and they do not realize that teachers have a life outside of school because that is the only place they see us. If we were more involved with their lives out side of school then maybe we could show them that we we share some of the same interests. I live in a different county and it is about 30 minutes away from the inner city charter school that I teach at. There are not many times I have been involved in their extra activities. I have tried to go to some events that some of my schools have had but it is difficult when my own children are in their activities. At some of my previous schools I have been to their choir concerts, basketball games and other activities. I attend the activities and events that are in my children's school district and I see how important it is for the students to see their teachers at school functions. At this point I'm probably the clueless movie because I'm not sure what activities the school has to offer. I know they don't have any middle school sports teams. My last school had a volleyball and basketball team. I hope that in the future we can have some extracurricular activities at my school.
One of my scholars who I coached in basketball tried her best on every assignment in my class. Her attempts to maintain a positive attitude and show respect even carried over to other classes because she knew I would check in on her and my other athletes.
Because of my coaching experience, I would have to say that I'm more of the 2nd movie type. I would even engage my other scholars in conversations about extracurricular activities and use them to motivate scholars to always do their best so they can prepare for the the next year's sports if they were currently too young to participate.
I 100% agree with the quote from the book. Being involved in our scholars lives outside of the classroom shows them we care about them as people, not just their work and grades. In past schools I've been a volleyball coach and led other after school clubs and activities. Building those relationships with students outside of class definitely showed in the classroom through student effort and behavior. Currently I try to make it to as many school events as possible but because my schedule doesn't always allow it I go out of my way to spend time with scholars during the day. I have "lunch bunch" at least once a week and our rule is that it is our time to talk and share but it cannot be about class or work. We usually talk about what they have planned or did on the weekend, activities their involved in outside of school or their families. I'm definitely a Game Plan type of teacher. My own kids are grown but, because of my husbands work schedule there are times I have to be home when there are events going on. I plan really hard to be at as many events as possible, especially when my kids are involved.
I had students come eat lunch with me also. It was my favorite time of finding out about my students since they didn't do many extracurricular activities for me to attend.
I agree we do need to see students outside the classroom. I like to talk to them at recess, before school and after school. Most my interaction to find what interests them is at dismissal. When buses are called one at a time it gives time to see them and talk. Some of them open up and those are the ones I have a good relationship with. Others it takes some work to get them to open up about what interest them. Building open and safe relationships helps. The movie I relate to is The Game Plan. You have to work on being involved... It takes time to get them to trust you.
Action 1: I agree that showing support to scholars outside of the classroom is very important. The scholars feel a sense of love and care when we show interest in their extracurricular activities. In turn the scholar shows respect to the teacher and this goes a long way.
Action 2: The movie that best describes me and my involvement in extracurricular activities is "The Game Plan". I need to work harder in being more present in my students' outside activities. The past two years I had a scholar that participated in choir and he just lit up when he saw me at his rehearsals and one of the performances.
Hello Ms. Price: Thank you so much for sharing. We are in same camp when it comes to the movie. I to need to work at supporting my scholars outside of the normal school day. Nice to know that I am not alone. Have a great week!
Action 1: In my opinion, scholars need to know that you care about them inside and outside of the classroom. However, going the extra-mile gives them a glimpse of you away from the classroom. I truly believe that this is a way to build strong relationships with your scholars and parents.
Mackcine Jordan@PLA 103
Action 2: I believe the best movie title that describes my level of involvement with extracurricular activities is: The Game Plan. As a result of the reading, I will become more involved in the lives of my students outside of the classroom. Our school has made a conscience effort to stay involved in the lives of our scholars in and outside of the normal school day.
Action 1: I agree, although throughout the years I make a point of having a relationship with my students, when I taught third grade and I was given a class in Q2, I started tutoring Mon-Thurs. my class, for one hour a day after class to help support the scholars and focused on reading to pass the IREAD, during this time I really came to bond at a deeper level with each scholar, the ones that gave me grief, started to do it less and less, to this date after 3 years, they still come and ask me when are we going to have tutoring Mrs. Luna. I still tutored them last year in fourth grade, only twice a week, but it was worth it. It is hard to give your time, but it also has a very satisfying result. I try to participate at our school activities if my personal schedule allows. It creates a different bond with the students and the teacher.
Action 2: The Gameplan is the movie that would describe me, as I live 30-40 min away, I have to plan when I stay so my family is taken care of. I look forward to putting up an event calendar next year.
Action 1: I agree with the above quote that connections with scholars outside of the classroom, helps immensely in the classroom. Every year I have taught so far I have been involved in something with school that would be considered an extracurricular. I've coached soccer and basketball, chaired a dance committee, advised for and published multiple yearbooks, and have attended as many sporting events as I can for all sports. When I coached, my team wanted to do very well in class because they knew it would reflect how our practices/games would go later in the day. We needed to be in sync in the classroom and on the field.
Action 2: The movie title that best describes my level of involvement with extracurricular activities is - Limitless. I try to be open to new areas I can help my school and scholars, however, it's a delicate balance. Being a team player helps everyone out in the long haul and helps make you well-rounded in what's new in a variety of topics.
Ashley, I agree! Being a team player is so important especially within a Charter School. So many people wear so many hats...I love including my family in these events because it gives the students a look into my life as well,
Angela Posey PLA@103 Action 1- I definitely buy into the fact that the payoff is huge when we connect with students away from school. The student gets to see you in a different role other than a teacher. In the past I have had students to bring me their basketball schedule etc, and I have attended the event. This interaction builds positve relationships with parents and students. It has always been my experience that if you have a meaningful relationship with a parent,the parent will be very supportive of you. The student is proud to have his/her teacher coming to their event. Action 2- I would definitely choose Game Plan since I have to be strategic in my planning. That's why I always ask the student to bring me a schedule.
Action 1: I agree with the quote above that making connections outside the classroom helps build better relationships in the classroom. When I see my students outside of the classroom whether it be at an after school event or at their homes they light up. I have seen the better relationship I have with my students the better their behavior is and willingness to work.
Action 2: In the past I would choose the movie title Limitless. I try to be at events so I can make connections with my scholars and their families. I will probably need to choose Game Plan now since I live 45 minutes away and back in school again.
I absolutely agree with your movie choice in my life as well. I have to have a "Game Plan" because I live a little over an hour away from where I work. It is hard to stay after for everything. I love going to as many events as I can, but I know that I cannot make it to everything.
Action #1: I agree with the statement connecting with students on perhaps a personal level or something that they like doing. I've been invited to outside events by my students, but due to personal issues like having two young daughters who are also a part of outside school events and their schedule conflicting with my students schedule caused me not to make some of my students events. I never thought about the benefits of this like getting to know your students on a different level which helps to better understand them can be translated into a better in class relationship and a new level of respect is also established.
Action 2: the movie title that describes my level of involvement with extracurricular activities has been showing up 2 after school events for not my students but students I've taught in the past that are now the age to participate in after-school events. I teach kindergarten and I know that even at this age they participate in extracurricular events so I plan on using the ideas such as talking with students and parents about Scholars upcoming events, see if I can get a schedule and also creating an event board and do my best to commit to supporting my students at their events. I am really enjoying this book. So far, great Hacks to implement. Deborah Dominick PLA@Uones-Clark Elem. Beaumont, Tx
I definitely agree with the quote, but this is also the hack that I have the hardest time with. I live at least 30 minutes from my school/students' activities and have my own children. My students this past year also were not involved with a lot of extracurricular activities, but the one I heard about was football. However, I tended to hear about the games after the fact. I need to do better at finding out about events ahead of time, but was able to pick up good ideas from the chapter and other teacher's responses.
As far as the movie that best describes my level of involvement, it would be Clueless. I struggled finding out about the activities my students were involved with, but I do see the benefit of getting to know my students outside of the classroom. Last year, I invited students to have lunch with me. It started as a reward, but as I started to see it help in building relationships with my students, I opened up the opportunity to others.
I absolutely agree that making connections outside of the classroom are important. I have taught grades 3-8 at some point in my teaching career and in every grade, if those students don't think that you care about them, they will not care about what you have to say at all. With some students, it takes a lot to gain their trust. Going to the activities outside of the classroom helps with this. When I was teaching 7th grade, I had many boys that became better students for me because they saw that I cared about them and helped them with things that didn't directly go with the lesson plan. I helped them see that if they kept their cool on the soccer field or football field, that they got better results. They came to me and talked when they needed to because they knew that I would listen and do what I could to help. This helped me during class time because they worked well for me because I did what I could for them.
Chapter 3 How Supporting Students Outside the Classroom Reaps Benefits Within the Classroom
I agree that it is important to know your students outside the classroom. We would write the names of the players on the board and acknowledge them in our morning meeting. I always tried to go to my student’s games. I would work the door or the concession table sometimes. It was a great time to get to know the parents and families better. I posted sports calendars in my room. I liked the Event Board, I am going to implement that in my classroom.
I 100% agree that making connections outside the classroom is important. I would say that it is almost more important because once you develop relationships with your students that are built off of more than academia, they will be more willing to participate and contribute in the classroom due to you showing them you care. I plan on trying to support my students outside of the classroom through sports, dance, etc.
I think the movie that would best describe me is Game Plan. I feel this way because I know what I need to do, it is just time to execute the plan. I plan to execute supporting my students outside of the classroom by creating a "community event board" in my classroom. On the board, all students will be able to share events they would like classmates or teachers to attend. I will regularly note these events and try to attend as many for each child as possible.
Chapter 3 How Supporting Students Outside the Classroom Reaps Benefits Within the Classroom
I am in total agreement with the quote from the book. My first year teaching I committed to attend as many extra curriculars as I could for my students. I was teaching first grade at the time, so I found myself at Birthday Parties, skate parks, baseball fields, basketball games and gymnastic events. I also have tried to be active in all school events. I believe that it is important for all students, not just your class, to see that you support and care about them. By doing this I have developed relationships not just with students but the entire family. Over the years, these relationships have allowed me to be involved in many life events beyond the classroom.When I receive Graduation announcements from students I have not seen in years it proves that forming relationships is key .
The movie that describes me is Limitless. I really do try to fit it all in. If a child invites me to an event outside of school, I will be there if it is possible. At school, I have been known to recruit my family to work events if needed.
I agree that being involved and connecting with students outside of the classroom is really important. It shows them how much you truly care about not only their education, but their lives. In the past I have attended student performances and sporting events. When I see the smile on their faces when they see me, it’s truly priceless. I love how that connection transfers to the classroom the next day. To hear them talk about seeing me and excitement about me being at the next event, it warms my heart and reinforces that I am an important part of their lives both inside and outside of the classroom.
ReplyDeleteThe movie title that best goes with me is “The Game Plan”. I chose this for me because I know how important being involved is, and I have a plan to be involved. I like the idea of having an event calendar for the classroom to support each other!
I agree very much! Our genuine interest can be critical in playing the role of caregiver at any time when it comes to our scholars. We want them to feel safe, loved, and appreciated in and out of the computer screens and/or walls. Thank you for sharing.
DeleteThe kids will care more about what we are trying to accomplish, if they see that we care about what they are doing as well. And it is a small investment that returns so much in the classroom.
DeleteYour idea of a calendar is great! What a good way for students to make connections with each other and encourage each other. Their non-academic conversations are important too!
DeleteSara Hasseld 93
PLA @ 93
DeleteHeather I too love the idea of having an event calendar. Scholars love to share and this would offer so many extra teaching moments. Give scholars things to talk about doing morning meeting. Also could be used in a writing center.
DeleteGreat idea Ms. Alford! I love the idea of connecting your calendar to writing centers and morning meetings!
DeleteI also agree that it is so important to show interest in your students outside as well as inside the classroom. I used to attend events whenever it fit into my schedule. I do that now but I also take pictures of the students in their activities. This makes the start of a meaningful conversation easy. Other students can also get involved in the conversation. This gives new students or shy scholars a chance to jump into the conversation as well. The challenge for me as a teacher is to make sure I get pictures of all my students. The events board is a great idea. I will be stealing this come fall.
DeleteMichelle Fendrick
A+ Arts Academy Fair Ave
Attending student extracurriculars shows support outside of the classroom. It allows for students to see their teachers as regular people too, which allows for a connection to build upon. The students' surprised smiling faces are the best, Heather!
DeleteTricia- Middlebury Academy Akron, OH
I think it's very important to know your students outside of school I have went to students basketball games and seen a few at local supermarkets...acknowledged them outside the classroom is a big deal it shows that you actually care and invested in them
DeleteI think it is immensely important to take time for scholars outside of the classroom. I personally enjoy attending their outside activities such as ballgames, competitions, and concerts. Living and working in the downtown area allows me to see my scholars at their events and occasionally inside stores, which can be very fun! The more we invest in our scholars outside of the classroom the better they will perform inside the classroom. Once again, trust is a key component in high achieving scholars.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Melanie L. that trust is a key component in high achieving scholars. I believe that when you are attending outside events to support your students or coaching their team you are building that trust. Sohn'a Duff PLA@103
DeleteBuilding trust is probably one of the most important things you can do with our scholars. They need that in their lives, well at least my population of kids do.
DeleteI do agree with Heather and S duff, you are building relationships with the scholars as well as letting them know you care for them more than in the class room. I went to s few if the girls basketball and the next day in school they mentioned it and said they were glad I was there for support. Plus it shows another side of the teacher and their character as s person.
DeleteJust replied above Angela Hill PLA@103
DeleteLedbetter,
DeleteSome of my scholars that had behavior issues were also involved in extracurricular activities. It built such a wall of trust with them when I attended their events. I remember teachers who did the same for me when I was a kid I still remember those teachers to this day!
Scholars will always remember when we attend events for them. Some scholars don't have family that attend the events, and that makes its so much more meaningful when we attend.
DeleteI agree!! My son and daughter remember when their teachers come to their games. However, as a teacher it does make it harder for me to go to my scholars things as my kids are so active. It's all about planning! :)
DeleteIt is definitely important to build relationships with the students outside of the classroom, so that they can get to know each other as people, with common interests. I think back to the past year and remember that the students who had the most positive behavior in class were those who I got to know and I invested time in speaking with them. I know that I must make more intentional effort to connect with as many of them as I can in this same manner. And it may just be as easy as catching a few games or dances next year. I was like the movie "Clueless" last year, but with purposeful effort, I think I can have a "Limitless" year next year.
ReplyDeleteAlicia Turner-PLA Smith
I think it's easy sometimes to slip into this habit of getting to know our students who have a lot of positive behavior. I do think though if we take the time with students we may have trouble with, we can see them as more than that. I was also Clueless this past year and I'm excited for the ideas given in the book to do this!
DeleteChynna Triska 103
I agree it can be easy to spend your energies on scholars with good behavior. I remember one year I had an extremely difficult student with behaviors. I went to her basketball games and it definitely broke the barrier. She slowly started to trust and believe that I cared about her as a person outside of the school setting and it was a beautiful thing watching her slowly build that trusting relationship with me!
DeleteAlicia,
DeleteYour post and those that follow reminded me of a scholar that I had who struggled with confidence. He would act out in class and make poor decisions. I was working on completing my Reading Endorsement and needed a "subject". I chose him because I needed to figure out what made him tick. We met after school a few days each week for 2 months. There were days that he just could not complete any part of working with me and other days that were just awesome! Before we left for quarantine, his crying and physical throwing tantrums were minimal. He attended my daily Zoom sessions over break and would call me if he needed help on his work. I offered this summer to work with he and another sibling to give them that extra push. Meeting one another one-on-one, gave us a bit more insight into each other. He loved watching videos that I take on my phone and pictures of my family. It was something that not every student gets to do with me and I think that helped him open up and realize that he could trust me. Even when he would throw chairs and wreck things in my class after school in anger, I would still be there, loving and caring about him more than whatever he damaged.
I also know that not all students are open to building a relationship. Some students have a thick wall and figuring out how to chip at it can be very challenging. I think of it as detective work as I try to "crack the case" and figure out each unique personality!
Michelle Lisco, Middlebury Academy
One of the keys to a successful classroom is building relationships. Trying to connect to students on a non-academic level is crucial. I try to find out their interests, something we have in common, or a funny quirk and that can lead to meaningful conversations and build a trusting relationship.
ReplyDeleteThese relationships can lead to more learning and also relieve a tough situation the student may be having.
I used to be "Limitless" in my after school activities with students. I was involved with sports, fundraising, and after school clubs. Now that I have my own son who has a busy schedule it is definitely more difficult. Even if I can't be there I can be sure to find out what kinds of things they do out of school and talk about them to make connections with my students.
Sara Hasseld 93
Sara, I agree that it’s harder to be involved when you have children of your own. I definitely don’t do as much as I did before kids! I love that you still talk to them about it and make those connections when you aren’t able to be there.
DeleteI also used to be Limitless :) But I live on the far south side with a busy middle school son and high school daughter who are both involved in several activities and I've lost the freedom to be AS involved in scholars' activities.
DeleteSara- I agree with you having conversations with your students really helps us to get to know them. I usually had kids talking to me at recess and I learned at lot about them then.
DeleteI agree that making a point to take in interest in what your students are interested in, is so important. I would say this is even more important if this student is "difficult" in your class. Seeing them in a different light other than, "the talker" can be beneficial to you as a teacher.
ReplyDeleteThis is my third year teaching and definitely something I want to do this year. In the past I have been the "Clueless" character and got so caught up in figuring out this whole teaching thing.
Chynna Triska 103
Chynna,
DeleteI agree that this is a very important teacher "strategy" in order to connect with the most "difficult" students in the classroom. Once you make these personal investments, these specific students tend to be your biggest student leaders and allies.
Give yourself a pass for being the movie title "Clueless" your first few years of teaching. This profession takes a lot of personal time to gather your style and attention. My first few years I was so involved with my students and coaching, that I did not complete all of the new teacher requirements. Balance and focus is key. Thank you for joining the education career field!!!
~Charmaine Jennings, PLA Training Specialist
I agree with the quote from the book. Whenever I have coached or held a after school club or attended a student's outside event, the student (s) have not only enjoyed it but also improved in class. Not only the students in my class but also students from the building that were involved showed more respect throughout the building. I also enjoyed the relationship that was developed because of the support. The students really appreciate this and even after they leave your class they will remember and appreciate it. I would say I use to be Limitless but now I am The Game Plan. Sohn'a Duff PLA@103
ReplyDeleteI agree! The impact is beyond just your own classroom. Students in the school notice and see that you care beyond the classroom! I have students from years ago that still say what an impact me attending events had on them and the school year as a whole.
DeleteI think it is great that you are so involved but are now more of the Game Plan. Teaching is exhausting and requires so much! It is important to set boundaries and have an action plan in place. I found myself my first year teaching spreading myself too thin and had to switch to having a game plan mindset, too! Keep it up!
Sarah Rahrig
GVPLA
Action 1: Yes, students will feel more connected to you and will want to meet your expectations if you lead, participate, or watch an after or before school activities with them. In the past I've been a Girl Scout Leader, Club Sponsor, ticket collector, dance chaperone, concession stand volunteer, spectator at sports & theater/musicals, tutor, etc. Students love to make connections & get to know their teachers better too!
ReplyDeleteAction 2: In the past, Limitless because I lived very close to the school. Now, Game Plan... because I live almost an hour away.
I agree with you on The Game Plan. I also live about 30-40 minutes away from school so sometimes getting to events when I have my own children with their own events can be challenging.
DeleteAnna Callender A+ Arts Academy - Fair Ave.
Mrs. Shafer, I have observed the last two years your extracurricular activities and I think they would be described as limitless. You have given thestudents and the school so much joy and help through your fundraisers and family events. I think you are a master at this hack, and a teacher to be watched if they would like to improve on this hack. See you soon.
DeleteAction 1: I totally agree that scholars will feel more connected. I think this also gives them a chance to see us a "human". They really get a kick out of seeing you out with your family. Many times that will help scholars see that you do care about them and will have develop a closer relationship and help with behavior.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: This past school year I would have to say Game plan, I had a plan for activities however we ended early and didn't get a chance to have our events.
I totally agree that it helps for students to feel more connected and see us as "human" and that we don't actually live at school. (Haha!)
DeleteAnna Callender A+ Arts Academy - Fair Ave.
I agree that it is important to see that we are just like them. They love when we share stories about our families as well.
DeleteAction #1: I agree with the statement. Students respect when their teacher sees them as more than a student, taking interest in them beyond their academic performance in the classroom. It provides a way to see our students shine. These moments are key to having non-academic topics to utilize as a specific analogy, reference or comparison especially when the course work becomes hard. This type of teacher behavior demonstrates, “I see you and acknowledge your humanity, talents and passions beyond performing well in my class.”
ReplyDeleteThis past school year I agreed to attend an Oratorical contest held at a community church, where I was asked to be a judge. Several of my students were competing. Many of the students and parents were shocked. They were so very excited to see me outside of the school building. I think that they believe educators live at school and never leave. They spoke about the contest for weeks, which allowed me to have a talking point and a means to motivate the students while celebrating their success.
~Charmaine Jennings, PLA Training Specialist
Action #2: The Game Plan best describes my current involvement in extracurricular activities. Earlier in my career I would have rated myself as limitless. Once I became a parent I had to find a new way to show my students that I care about their academic performance in my class. I began to integrate more project based learning with arts integrated pedagogy. This allowed them to utilize sports, fine arts, and other skills in a way that highlighted their interests and strengths. I love www.educationcloset.com and the many arts integrated resources. Arts integrated lessons have helped to bring the extracurricular skills and interest to the classroom.
~Charmaine Jennings, PLA Training Specialist
I totally agree here. When I was teaching from home online, it was easier for me to get to field trips, dances and other events because I was at a school where they encouraged us to bring our own children. It was definitely limitless. Now that I'm teaching at a different type of school, it's much harder to attend every event.
DeleteSarah Castle - A+ Arts Academy
Action 1: I very much agree with the quote from the book. I am all about building relationships first. I know students love to see their teachers beyond the classroom and it makes for a good relationship with the students and their families. I loved the idea of an event calendar so I know what events are coming up for students. I also try and volunteer for events at school such as our Father/Daughter dance so that I can connect with other students in the school as well.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: I would say my movie connection would be "The Game Plan." With 2 children of my own with very busy schedules it's not always easy or possible for me to attend multiple events but I think with the event calendar it will help me to be able to plan better.
Anna Callender A+ Arts Academy - Fair Ave.
Hi Anna! I completely agree with your views on the event calendar! I will be using that hack within my classroom and I think it will, as the chapter notes, bring a stronger sense of community to my room. As teachers, it is so easy to forget what extracurricular activities are occurring - so the event calendar will be a helpful visual to my students and myself!
DeleteMarcella Largent, Middlebury Academy
I agree that having a family outside of school with active children make it very difficult be involved at school at night. I going to try the same and plan ahead to attend more events.
DeleteAnna, I also agree that an Event Calendar would be extremely helpful. Last year when we were actually in school, it was really hard to keep all the dates of each team's games straight. I'd have to get each schedule from each Coach and then figure out who's games I could attend each week. When you currently have all of one grade a semester in your regular classes and two more grades in a mixed class, it makes it hard to sort which of the three girls' basketball teams you can see play each week!
DeleteAshley Pierce
JRPLA
Sarah Castle - A+ Arts Academy
ReplyDeleteI do agree with the statement. My students are in a class called drumline. When I show up to their competitions is really does make a difference to them. They know they have my unconditioinal support. They also love basketball and we have just recently started playing a league. I had to miss their games, but I plan on attending this year. We also talk about football during the season as well. They really are surprised that I know a lot about the game. I also have a board at the front of the room with all their schedules of events and I make sure to talk about them the next day in class.
I would say my movie title would be The game plan.
Hey Sarah!
DeleteI love the bulletin board idea! I think that is a great idea for you and the class to see what events their classmates are participating in. I think I am going to steal that idea for my own classroom!
Hey Sarah!
DeleteI love the bulletin board idea! I think that is a great idea for you and the class to see what events their classmates are participating in. I think I am going to steal that idea for my own classroom!
Sarah,
DeleteWhat a great idea with the bulletin board! I think that this shows the scholars that you see all the events they are in and want to encourage them in any way that you can.
Jenina Sorenson PLA@103
I also like the bulletin board idea although I wonder how this would go over with the population of scholars I teach. Most of my students are not involved in extracurricular activities. A small handful are involved in football, baseball, and gymnastics though they are activities not connected to the school. I am concerned a calendar of activities might make those who don't participate in anything feel left out. My level of attending scholar activities is Clueless mostly due to my own children and their activities. I wish that our school offered more extracurricular activities as it would be much easier to attend events. I always make a point during our morning meetings to talk about scholar interests and extracurriculars and might just have to add this bulletin board idea to our classroom even if it serves just as a reminder to ask them how it went.
DeleteCathy Branch, Middlebury Academy
I'm glad you mentioned that the board may make other scholar's feel left out. That would definitely be a conversation to have in class. Maybe you could explain that it doesn't have to just be sports, it could be anything happening in their lives. I also wish that my school had more after school activities offered for our scholars, but we are such a small school it's tough.
Delete-Charlene Long, Trix Academy
I do wish our school offered more extracurricular activities for students to get involved in. We have a few teams, but it would be nice to highlight some of the outside activities students participate in that may not be school related. Perhaps a team dedicated to afterschool activities can be implemented in the future.
DeleteAction 1: In general, I agree with the quote. Connecting with students outside of the classroom has an impact that is 10-fold within the classroom. It shows them you truly care about who they are not just test scores or the work they produce. I’m not sure if those connections, as stated in the quote, make it easier for the teacher to have high exceptions however. I actually believe that statement contradicts Hack 2. But regardless, this hack is by far one of my favorites! I used it as a classroom teacher and in my current role as Culture and Trauma Informed Specialist. Children need connection. We are neurobiologically wired for connection. Furthermore, according to Howard Bath, the 2nd pillar of trauma informed care is connection, with the first being safety (i.e. think procedures, routine and consistency).
ReplyDeleteAs a classroom teacher, I made it to almost all school events. This was a bit easier than middle school events because we did not have a basketball team, cheer team, football etc. These events included dances, fall/spring festivals, talent shows, and choir performances and more. In addition, I had many student athletes who I made an appoint to attend at least one game every year. I worked with parents to get the schedule and would show up to basketball games, football games, baseball games, dance competitions. The look of pure joy on both parent and student faces was enough, but then then paired with the outcomes in the classroom-AMAZING! I love how this chapter gave practical steps including talking about the event at school the next day and rationale for attending/pushback. I also, really loved the Event Board! Wow! That must really make scholars feel special to see their events posted instead of test scores!!!!!! Wish I would have done that! Which leads me into…
Action 2: I would say I fall into the title Game Plan. Some of my colleagues when I was teaching may have categorized me as Limitless because I went to so many events both school associated and not, but I did have boundaries. Scholars had to give me schedules in advance and could not ask me the week of the event. (It was well known in the school that I attended events regularly and students outside of my classroom started asking me to come so I has to set some boundaries.) School events were nonnegotiable in my calendar, but other events I planned out around location and my personal calendar. It is 100% possible to attend student events and truly the results are amazing. It’s like the book says, even if none of the events interest you, your students do and that’s why you go! I started attending not because of classroom management but because my students asked. The benefits were, well are, exponential.
Sarah Rahrig
GVPLA
It is great to see the faces of scholars when they see you at an event. When families see you out of the classroom, they see how much you value their scholar. I think it's also important to make sure that we are offering a variety of activities for scholars to showcase their talents. It might be nice to have a graffiti wall at the beginning of the school year where scholars write down their interests and then the staff can divide and conquer when coming up with clubs and activities.
DeleteMitch Mosbey GVP
Mitch,
DeleteI like that idea. See the interests of the scholars and get a team of teachers, possibly grade level, to attend these events. Dividing and conquering is way less stressful!
I agree with the comment on the looks on students faces when they see you outside of the classroom. I have run across students in grocery stores and they look like I should not be there. They must think we stay in the classroom and never leave it.
DeleteChris Truesdell- Trix
I used to be Limitless :) But I live on the far south side in Whiteland (I'm in the Indy schools) with a busy middle school son and high school daughter who are both involved in several activities and I've lost the freedom to be AS involved in scholars' activities.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I will say that any time a teacher/staff member can attend a game/activity and show that scholar some support, it almost always helps in building relationships. Even if I can't attend as often as I like, I still ask about games/activities and listen/ask questions so the scholar knows I care.
When I taught general education AND when I taught alternative education, I would connect with parents and ask about games/activities. If there were things the coaches were working on that I could also work on in class (and soooo many of the parents would pass that info along to coaches and let the coaches know things the scholar was working on in class) I have had several coaches work with me on behavior issues.
I also like to let the scholars use the leadership skills they may be learning in their extra curricular activities to take leadership roles in the classroom.
I would like to attend some activities this year (although, as an instructional coach having the whole building of kids as "my kids" makes it hard to pick and choose) but even if my own kids' activities get in the way, I think connecting with scholars over their outside of school activities is a great way to build relationships.
Amanda,
DeleteBuilding those relationships with parents is so important. I have found that when I am involved in their child's events outside of the school setting it helps my relationship with them too. I also feel like it shows scholars that their teachers and parents are both there to support them and encourage them. And by being involved outside of the classroom setting I think helps the parents see you not only as their child's classroom teacher but someone who will do anything for their child.
Jenina Sorenson PLA@103
I love the idea of working with coaches. I have been on both sides of this and love the impact it has had on not only my students but my personal children as well!
DeleteJenelle Miller PLA103
I totally agree with the quote from the book For two reasons. I experienced Project Read with some of my scholars after school every week for almost the entire year for 2 years. Theses scholars didn't know me before Project Read but once they did know me they'd give me hugs when they saw me in the hall, say "hi" and introduced me to their friends in school. This expanded my number of friends even more as they also introduced me to their friends. They begged me the second year to do Project Read again, which I gladly rejoined. Scholars I didn't even know would come to my room and ask if they could be in my room too. Or they'd ask me to do Project Read with them. I made a lot of new friends of the scholars just by reading with them for an hour each week. I am a Spec Education teacher but they wanted to spend time with me in my room. They just wanted my attention and to be acknowledged. They didn't care that I taught Special Education. The second experience took a short amount of time but made a lasting impression that seems to made a big difference to so many At the beginning of the year I went into each classroom and introduced myself to the scholars. I told them that when they see me in the hall they can wave to me quietly. I constantly got waves and hugs from scholars I didn't even know. But they knew me and it made them feel loved and cared for. I want to do this ever year.
ReplyDeleteKay Clabaugh TLJA
My book is Limitless. I usually put in an extra 2 hours each day at school. I also buy and donate clothing to the clothing closet for scholars who don't have.
ReplyDeleteKay Clabaugh
When you learn as much as you can about your scholars, you can incorporate their interests into the subject areas. You can use interests in math problems, topics for writing, collections of books for reading. Small little changes make a big difference.
ReplyDeleteI would say I connect more with the movie "The Game Plan." I have mixed feelings on visiting events, which they also said would have pushback from teachers. I think it's more important to spend time one-n-one having conversations. If you cannot attend their events, use morning meetings to give them opportunities to share moments, photos, or videos with the rest of the class. During my last full year with scholars, it was one that had the best relationships with scholars. They said I saw them as people and made coming to school so much better.
Mitch Mosbey GVP
I love how you mention spending time with scholars and making connections doesn't have to be just about attending their events. It's all about making them feel like people and just taking time to listen to them can be just as meaningful, if not more, than attending events. Every moment counts!!
DeleteThanks for mentioning this
Charlene Long-Trix Academy
I believe that you should always find a way to make time for your scholars. I know that this is very hard because most teachers have families and other things outside of school. When I first started teaching, I would help with almost every after school sport or function. I truly miss that. It would help me get to know the older scholars because I was a Kindergarten teacher. But, I still believe staying for a few school activities a year really shows scholars that you care and it builds a connection.
ReplyDeleteI am not Limitless because I have my family to care for but I am also not Clueless. I try and help when I can by staying for a few events or coming in early. I am looking forward to trying to help with more events this school year.
Action 1:
ReplyDeleteI agree with this quote. An experience that I had to support this statement took place about two years ago. I had a scholar who displayed a few behavioral challenges in several classes. She was disengaged in the learning process in regards to math. She would act out at the start of the math block each day in hopes of being put out of class. I overheard her speaking with a few classmates about praise dancing she did at church. About a month later, I attending a service at her church to support her. I stayed after the service to speak with her family and made a few connections. Once we returned to school, her behavior started to change in all classes. She would ask for help in areas that were difficult. The scholar started to see me as a family member and not just a teacher.
Action 2:
The Game-plan. I love to support my students, but it can be challenging at times. I have four children, with three of them under the age of 13. In order to support them in the way that I would like, my IA and I create plans. One plan is I encourage them before all games, Mr. Burns (the best IA in the world) would attend games that I couldn’t and record them for me, and the next day, we would all talk about it for our morning meetings.
LaTiesha Hollowell
PLA@103
LaTiesha,
DeleteWhat a great idea about taping the events that you cannot attend! As a former elementary physical education teacher, teaching all the scholars in the building it made it challenging at times to make it to all the events. As much as I would have loved to make it to all the events of all the scholars I just couldn't make some events. But, having someone tape them so that you can share in the experience is a great way to do this. Thanks :)
Jenina Sorenson PLA@!03
I love your idea of taping the events you cannot attend as well! Sometimes it just isn't feasible to attend everything, but even just acknowledging the student's accomplishment can go a long way. I will also have the parents send me pictures if I cannot attend as well!
DeleteBrittany Connett PLA@93
I really like the idea of having parents send me a picture or two. At Halloween, I always ask the students to send me a picture of them in their costume. I still have pictures from some students! Gale Reed PLA@93
DeleteAction 1:
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with this quote. When students are able to see that you care about them outside of school, they are going to start caring about you in the classroom. At PLA103, I am the Athletic Director and it is one of the best parts of my job. I am able to see not just my students but a lot of the students doing something that they are interested in. I also was able to coach a few sports and it was amazing to create a family like group with the team. Another thing that I loved to do was go to other student's sport games. It was great to sit in the stands with parents so I could get to know them better and they could see me somewhere other than school!
Action 2:
I think at the moment I am Limitless. My students are my life right now because I don't have any of my own kids, but I can see myself shifting toward Game-Plan when I start to grow my family. It can be hard to juggle extra curricular events, but it is amazing to see the difference between a student who knows you after school and who just knows you at school. I love my students like they are my own kids and I feel like if you make that known to them, they will respect you. :)
Paige, I think that is so fun that you get to also be the athletic director at your school! I absolutely agree that it is great for the students, and parents like you said, to see that side of us outside of school. Being able to sit and talk with them and get to know them and vice versa is so rewarding. Thank you for sharing this!
DeleteAudree Zabel GVPLA
Action 1: I totally agree with this quote. When scholars are able to see that you not only care about them in the classroom but outside of the classroom they grow closer relationships with you. I love when I get to share in outside experiences with my scholars. I have been to sporting events with them, dances with them, and with some of them I have even been to church with them to celebrate in their special moments outside of the classroom. It makes you feel connected to them in ways than just as their classroom teacher. I makes them see that you have a life outside the classroom as well. I also think that when tough things happen in their lives if you have made it a point to make it these moments they are more than willing to share with you what is happening because they trust you and have that relationship with you.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: I think that I am in between Game Plan and Limitless. In my current role as a physical education teacher, where you are teaching all the students in the school it is sometimes hard to get to all of your students events. Therefore you need to have a Game Plan in place. You have to know when and where the students are having their events and make sure that it will fit into your schedule. I also am Limitless because if I can make it I will be there to support you and cheer you on. I have also coached soccer for our scholars in the past. Along with hold after school activities for them like Girl Scouts, Science Club, and SHEors. I think by showing your scholars you care for them not just in the classroom but outside of the classroom you grow stronger bonds with them. And not just them but, their family members. I have such strong relationships with my scholars families that it rings true that it takes a village to raise a child.
Jenina Sorenson PLA@103
"I have such strong relationships with my scholars families that it rings true that it takes a village to raise a child". I love that you said that and it definitely does take a village, and it ever so important now a days many scholars lack that TLC at home some as teacher's showing them that we care outside of class goes a long way. Kudos, to you being able to be apart of scholars life spiritually as well.
DeleteLeshun Horne PLA@JonesClark
I most certainly agree that being involved and connecting with students outside of the classroom is really important. Not only does it show scholars you care about their education, but their lives outside of the classroom. When I taught fifth, I attended student performances and sporting events. It brought so much joy to my heart to hear them tell their friends Mrs.Horne is her. The next day I could still hear them bragging with excitement to their classmates about me attending their events.
ReplyDeleteThe movie title that best goes with me is “clueless”. The reason I would say this is because I did not attend many events this past year. I was expecting then I had a newborn a two year old and a 10 year old so it was a challenge this year, I am trying to get back involved with after school activities.
Leshun Horne PLA@JonesClark
I absolutely think that being involved in extracurricular activities outside of school can support a child in the classroom. This alone shows the student that you are interested in what they are doing and want to support them not only in the classroom, but outside the classroom as well. I have been a volleyball coach multiple times, even at a school my students didn't attend. For them, just seeing their teacher outside of school supporting others while doing something they love, too, is amazing.
ReplyDeleteAs for the movies, I would say that I am "The Game Plan." Like I said, I've been a coach before and I coached a 5th and 6th grade volleyball team with 12 girls. I definitely had to have a plan to ensure that everyone had a chance to play and show off their skills, but that they also were having fun and learning from myself and each other. It was a challenge, but so rewarding and so fun!
Audree Zabel GVPLA
My HS football coach recognized that some of his players, myself included, were in band. Coming from a very small town and small school district in Texas where everything stops on Friday night when football season is in you can imagine the set up. But my senior year, I was a field soloist and we had contest coming. Typically at halftime I would shed my pads throw my Jersey on grab my tenor sax and perform with the band...I would miss the talk in the Fieldhouse. The Friday night before Saturday marching contest when I lined up with the band to start the show I looked at the stands across the way and my team was in the stands ready to cheer us on and to support me and the other two teammates in the band. We were ahead 32-0 at half and Coach McGonagle recognized that the band competed 1 time in a season yet was always there for the team.
ReplyDeleteIs that the same thing this hack is suggesting? Maybe not, but what it did was teach me something very important, something I do as often as I can. I go to games, I was an athlete and I know what that means; I go to concerts, I was in band and I know what that means; I go to the live stock shows because my kids are participating etc.
My last school was a small town that played games long distances away. I drove over an hour to get there from my home but three of the schools we played were fairly close to my house so I would go to these away games. Teaching middle school and having students that parents just could not make the out of town games...but the had Mr. Martin there...
I have done scoreboard at volleyball games, worked concessions at soccer games, been the loudest one cheering at a concert and helped them clean up mess after a dance.
It all makes a huge difference.
I agree it makes a huge difference! They will forever remember looking out and seeing someone they admire there supporting them!
DeleteI completely agree with the quote from the text. If we want to, truly, build meaningful relationships with our students - we should attend school events in which they are involved in. I am a first-year teacher, so I may be a bit "Clueless" as to how involved I should be outside of class (I want to attend everything and help out with everything, but I need to also set limits for myself - for no teacher can "do it all"). However, during my student teaching, I took on co-directing the stage crew at my middle school & it was such an awesome experience. My students' motivation increased significantly as well! What you put into your relationships with your students, you will definitely receive within your classroom. After helping run an extracurricular activity, I have been inspired to manage other extracurricular activities (such as improv & acting clubs, book clubs, etc.).
ReplyDeleteI think my mindset for my first year of teaching is "The Game Plan." For my first year, I definitely have to be organized as to what is happening within my class & try not to be so overwhelmed with the demands of teaching. I want to have a plan that is flexible & able to be modified (because life happens), but I also want to not wavier on the standards I have for myself as an educator. My students come first and I definitely want to ensure that I am providing them with a good education in my classroom, while also supporting them outside of the school day.
Marcella Largent, Middlebury Academy
C.Louketis,A+ Arts Academy
ReplyDeleteI truly agree with the text about if your students know that you care about them outside of the classroom,they will be more willing to show you that they care about their work inside the classroom. One year I had mostly boys in my classroom and all they wanted to talk about was basketball. I ask them who they played for and they said a recreation center team, so I told them that I would come to one of their games. I did and you should have seen their faces, they were overjoyed that I was there. They couldn't believe I was there. That visit to their game changed the way they saw me as just their teacher, they saw me as a person who cared about what they were interested in. It was a new level of respect in my classroom. The rest of the year went smoothly.
I agree with the quote, if your students see you actively involved in events outside of school it's showing to them that you care about them as a person and then they would be more willing to care about their work in the classroom. I noticed that when I was involved in the school play at my previous school as a teachers assistant, those students that were in the play tried harder when I worked with them during class. I would have to say that I am The Game Plan. I tried more of an effort to attend activities outside of school. Sometimes it is really hard for me to do that with having a 3 year old son who has ASD. He also attends school so trying to be there for him at his school functions as well as be present for my students and their school functions. I try to make it to events, especially if I know that my students will be participating in them.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that connecting with students outside of school strengthens the relationship and builds a stronger bond. I love attending events outside of school because it gives me a chance to learn more about students’ personalities, and their interests. Cheering them on at sporting events or watching them shine on stage makes me feel closer to my students, and shows them that I care about them as people. One year I taught a 7th grade at-risk math class, which was made up of 8 girls and 15 boys. My students felt they couldn’t achieve, and that it really didn’t matter. I started the year with a focus on getting to know them, building trust, and letting them know that I cared about them both in and out of school. I had two boys who had the reputation of being “rebels” and “turning a class out” by being disruptive, disrespectful, and disengaged. I prepared myself………… Sure enough, they challenged me on day 1 by coming in late and refusing to do anything I asked of them. They were used to being yelled at by teachers and being sent to the office for behavior issues. They automatically thought I would treat them the same way, until I started taking a personal interest in them. They both loved football so I started attending their games (making sure they saw me and heard me cheering), and I also started watching weekly football games on TV. I started class each day with a quick “what’s up” session, and I made it a point to bring up football. I also created opportunities for my students to be successful, despite them being 2 years behind in math skills. We celebrated every gain, whether it was simply playing some music and dancing or me passing out a small treat. My students knew that giving up was not an option, and that I would never give up on them. Immediately my two “rebels” became calm and cooperative in class and began to embrace learning. When asked by other staff why they behaved so well for me, the boys would always say that I loved them, and that I wouldn’t let them give up.
ReplyDeleteThe movie that best describes my current level of involvement with extracurricular activities is The Game Plan. While I would love to be limitless in my involvement, I have other responsibilities now that require me to choose which events will further relationship building, and hopefully further the progress of students.
I agree that connecting with the scholars makes a huge difference in how they respond to you and their academics. You need to show you care about who they are. I teach little ones so they are not as involved in extra curricular activities but going to an occasionally dance or reward party would make a difference. These scholars need to know we do care about them. During this stay at home time, I delivered items to the scholars houses. When they opened the door and saw their teacher outside of the classroom, the scholars faces were priceless.
ReplyDeleteAs for movie title, this year is would say I was “ Clueless” I was only with them 8 weeks and I have four active kids at home. This year I hope to be “ Game Plan” and try to attend a few activities. It’s difficult with my family too.
Mindi Spychalski PLA 103
I agree with the quote 100%. I know being at PLA for my first year was challenging as a new teacher, but I did my very best to attend the events that I knew about. I always told my scholars to let me know when they had a game, a recital, etc that I could attend.
ReplyDeleteSpecifically, I attended a 5th Grade Basketball game this season. When the kids saw me walk in they were amazed. They yelled my name and made that I knew that they knew I was there. I would make the case that it is important to the scholars when you show up to an event, but seemingly, the night I attended the game, it was the parents who were blown away that I came.
Some of the parents told me that a teacher had never attended an event for their child. Talk about building relationships and bridges. When you can win over the trust of a parent and they see that you care enough to attend their child's event, it will speak volumes. I didn't attend a ton of events the past year, but I saw the impact it had when I did attend an event. I would like to make a better effort to attend at least event for each of my scholars this year. They are all involved int things inside and outside of school, so the possibilities are there.
Movie Title:
I feel like I'm not clueless, but I am also not unlimited. I have a game plan for sure when it comes to attending events. This plan will have to be adjusted this upcoming year, especially with a newborn in the house. I am excited to make it work so that I can see my kids in action.
Zach Brubaker - GVPLA
Another area that I did not mention in my initial post and have not, at this point seen others, is that these opportunities are ideal to make parental connections as well. I am not a basketball fan at all but my kids do not know that and their parents think I am insane about basketball. So what that does for me is it gives me credibility with parents as well as their children/ my kids. It makes my kids parents want to know me, want to talk to me and ultimately on my side. So when I need to talk to them about their child they already know I am backing them.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the above quote. When you connect with students outside of the classroom, it will make a positive impact within the classroom. I have never attended one of my scholars' extracurricular activities. I think teaching at a K-8 school puts us at a disadvantage in regards to this hack, because the only after-school programs we offer are boy scouts, latchkey, and tutoring. I worked with 4 scholars from my classroom twice a week for 2 hours after school for tutoring this past school year. Even though we were still partaking in an educational activity, this extra time spent together on a more personal level did make an impact within the classroom setting. We were able to spend time together working on educational skills through fun games and activities. Two of the scholars did not have behavioral issues, but I saw their confidence and level of participation increase. Another scholar's behavior, confidence, participation, and grades all improved over time. Working with these scholars on a more personal level, having fun and getting to know each other better positively impacted our relationship in the classroom and the scholars greatly looked forward to tutoring.
ReplyDeleteCathy Branch, Middlebury Academy
I taught pre-K for 6 years in a private preschool in the community that I live in. It was very easy to see my students in the community because activities were very close to home. If I was on the soccer fields for my own children, I would intentionally leave 10-15 minutes early to hit the 4/5 year old fields to look for students (past and present). Or I would go over at half time and at the end. The younger children had shorter games and were staggered so that it was easy to see them. As well, my daughter took dance at a local studio where many of my students attended. Watching the little girls dancing in their leotards was priceless!
ReplyDeleteWhen I would see my students at activities, I would make it a point to stop and make sure they saw me, talk to them if it was appropriate, and cheer them on! It was a big deal for the preschool child to see me at an activity and then have a short conversation in class! I felt more personally connected to the child and their family. It allowed me to get to know their families more intimately too, by meeting both parents and siblings. Many of the students had divorced parents and this often provided an opportunity to meet both parents or sets of parents. Our scholars talk about people that they live with daily and we can go through an entire year and not ever meet or see them. Personal activities can really create a sense of community.
Currently, I am not as involved as I could or should be. The city where I teach is large and unfamiliar. There is somewhat of a concern for safety without knowing many parts of the city. From my home, it is not convenient to get to many of the youth fields in the large city where I work. I have asked scholars and their parents for football and basketball schedules but have not had any parents follow through. I only had two scholars this year participate in organized sports. Most scholars are involved in neighborhood pick-up games or games at parks near their home.
At my previous job, I was The Game Plan. While I do attend all of our school's family nights and events, I am not very good at attending personal events that scholars have outside of school. I know that being involved impacts our relationships with scholars positively. My room is popular on family nights because scholars know that I usually have something fun going on in my room. My current and former scholars will bring older and younger siblings to visit and see what I have planned. No matter how much I don't "prefer" an event, I show up with my game face and a fun activity because it may just be the highlight of any one of our scholar's day, week, month, or year.
Michelle Lisco, Middlebury Academy
I would have to agree heavily with the quote above. I have found that the more you seem to be involved in a students life, the more they trust you and believe that you actually care about them as an individual. And as stated in the book, that does not even have to always involve actually attended things, it could be something as simple as asking a student how their band concert went the weekend prior. Showing interest, and just talking to that student will prove that you care.
ReplyDeleteAs of now, my fiancé and I have been able to make it a priority to visit some of the extracurricular activities of my students. Of course it is easier when I do not personally have kids of my own yet, and expect that to cause things to be a bit more challenging, but as for now I would say the balance has been pretty good. I am more of a sports guy, so its pretty easy for me to attend sporting events as I find them very enjoyable. But recently I sort of did the unusual and went to a two hour school play. The students I went there to support were elated that I showed interest and attended, and I actually walked away very impressed! I work hard to try and balance different things, as I would truthfuly rather be attending sporting events but making an effort to show love to ALL extracurriculars. This sends the trust between students and teacher through the roof.
I would describe my movie title as The Game Plan. Since making an effort to do more, and not having my own personal family just yet, it has given me the ability to be generous with my time and attend different things to support different students. I have found a love for all the uniqueness of every individual and their interest and have grown a lot personally with expressing my care for that individual. And I have found this to be a very rewarding process.
-Wes Wenning, Middlebury Academy
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with the above quote. When you make outside connections with scholars it makes your connection in the classroom so much stronger. In past experience the bond your form with a scholar through outside connections lasts so much longer than the school year. I still have connections with scholars that I attended outside events.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately many of my scholars don't participate in any outside activities and not many sports activities are offered at our school. The few sports activities that were offered interacted with my second job and I was unable to attend the games. I have been invited to a few church activities and birthday events and definitely made strong bond with those scholars.
We do host many family nights and holiday activities which I have been a part of all of them and have built bonds with many families and scholars that way.
Also through this online learning situations there have been many bonds made while video conferencing and getting to see scholars homes and families during lessons.
Charlene Long-Trix Academy
I fully agree that when taking interest in activities that scholars are involved in outside of school truly helps you to connect with the scholars on a different level. Not only does it help with your rapport and connection, but the scholars I feel develop more respect for you, because you are taking an interest in the activities they're involved in and not just focused on them as students. By attending outside events and taking interest in the scholars' lives outside of school I agree that it also helps students to be more accepting of the high expectations you set for them in the classroom. Throughout my teaching experience I have attended football games, basketball games, gymnastic events, and dance recitals of my students. However, looking back I wish that I would have attended so many more, because after reading about this Hack I seem the greater benefits of attending the events.
ReplyDeleteAs for the movie title that best describes my level of involved with extracurricular activities I would have to say it's "The Game Plan". I would know about the students events and much of the time try my best to attend the events that they told me about, however I felt like I always had to "force" it into my schedule. Not because I didn't want to go, but because a great deal of the time I was teaching I was also attending graduate school or getting my reading endorsement or working a second job, and most recently raising my son. It felt as though I has so much on my plate as it was and attending one of my student's events outside of school wasn't always top priority unfortunately.
Abby Gaddis- IS
I so agree with you that the balance can sometimes be off. I take care of my aging mother and I always get complaints from her about always being gone or busy. Last year she was in the hospital 6 times. It is hard to do it all.
DeleteI so agree with you that the balance can sometimes be off. I take care of my aging mother and I always get complaints from her about always being gone or busy. Last year she was in the hospital 6 times. It is hard to do it all.
ReplyDeleteForgot my name
Chris Truesdell - Trix
I do agree with the quote that being a part of what students get involved in after school can make an impact on what happens in the classroom. However, I have taught lower elementary at many schools and they do not have activities for this age group. I did try to get some kind of physical activity going at a school but the school wouldn't allow it. I have told kids that if they have a game or activity that they would like me to go to that they just have to write down the date, time and location and I would try to go.
ReplyDeleteAs for the movie title it would be Clueless. I take care of my aging mother and it doesn't leave any time for me to really attend events. The school doesn't really offer anything for the ages that I teach. I do attend the various school wide events that happen and I do sit with some of the families and that makes a difference. The online learning has made a bit of a difference with getting to know what goes on at home and such. I would be curious of what it would be like if we got back into the classroom.
Chris Truesdell - Trix Academy
"Teaching takes time and energy!" No less, teaching is an act of the heart. I believe attending events and activities will have a great impact on student-teacher relationships. Getting to know your students as a person and not just a pupil will further build trust in the classroom. When a student sees who are beyond the classroom, it shows you care for them. Just think of the excitement they'll have the next day in the classroom after your shared experience together! Some of my greatest memories outside the classroom are daughters and dads dances,book bingo, doughnuts for dad, ice cream socials, science fairs, and dunk jams- just to name a few.
ReplyDeleteThe title that best describes my involvement in past events and activities as a teacher would be "Game Plan." Now that I am a Reading Interventionist, I would say my new title is "Limitless."
Mrs A. Marsden
ReplyDeletePLA @ 103
Action #1:
ReplyDeleteI have many examples of the impact of going to extracurricular activities has on the students. One would be a somewhat disruptive student in my 11th grade English class a few years ago. He thought everything we did was boring, the expectations were optional, and teachers were the opponent in the game of school. He was also on the varsity baseball team. I asked him when his next game was, and it was that Saturday morning. I went to the game, and my presence was very noticeable. Unlike football and basketball, which tend to have bigger followings, there was no one at this game but a few parents and me. The student was surprised to see me there, as I'm sure other teachers had told him, "Sure, I'll make it to one of your games." Monday in class, and from then on, his entire demeanor changed in my classroom. All of a sudden, he cared about my opinion, would stay after to talk about all kinds of subjects, and when he signed his letter of intent to play ball for a junior college in Ohio, he came in to tell me all about it. I did go see a few more games, and wished I could have made one of his JC games, but he did come back and visit me and told me all about his experiences. All of this would not have happened had I not given up a Saurday morning.
Action #2:
Limitless
My first go around in high school, I coached year around (cross country, basketball, baseball), and I always came home very late, and was rarely home on weekends. It was just a given that it was something I loved, and was a big part of the reason I went into education. My second stint in high school, I was AP, and I went to everything: games, plays, proms, awards ceremonies, graduations, etc. I enjoyed every minute, and it made my time as an administrator during the day so much easier.
That's such a great story and an excellent example of what the author was illustrating in this hack!
DeleteKayla Walker, PLA@103
Connecting to your students outside of the classroom is so important! Students and parents need to see you as a "real" person. They also need to know that you have an interest in the student not just in school. As a teacher, I used to attend my students sports events all the time. They were so happy and amazed when they would see my face in the stands. This helped build my relationship with those students. They were more willing to listen to my directions and follow them. I would advice any educator to put fourth the effect to build relationships outside of the school environment.
ReplyDeleteIf I had to describe my involvement based off a movie title it would be between Game Plan and Limitless.
Action 1:
ReplyDeleteMy first year of teaching was in a middle school. Along with all the usual first year struggles, I taught the lowest group of readers in 6th grade. I was constantly looking for ways to connect with them that year, but my eyes were opened when I agreed to help coach the track team in the spring. I agreed to help a friend even though I knew very little about track. I developed a different relationship with the students. I could tell they saw me in a different light. I would describe it as "they did not see me as the enemy, I was on their side." The dynamic of the relationship changed completely.
Action 2:
Game Plan would be the movie title to describe my level of involvement in extra curricular activities. I almost chose Limitless because I do think there are so many opportunities to get to know the students from extra curricular activities, but I thought having a Game Plan described me more so in the past few years. I recognize that building a positive relationship with your students through showing an interest in their extra curricular activities will help make the challenges in the classroom easier to overcome.Therefore, having a game plan to accomplish this is needed.
Mary Ann Staten
PLA @93
I think it is wonderful that you tried something out of your area of expertise. I believe that's setting a wonderful example for your scholars to do the same!
DeleteKayla Walker, PLA@103
I completely agree with the above quote. I believe it is mentioned in the book as well, but there is something about a student seeing a teacher outside of school that makes them seem more "real." I was been invited to a few students extracurricular activities or birthday parties, and the students are just so excited to even invite you in the first place. I teach first grade so it is a little harder to find activities to attend that my students will also be participating. I do attend all school wide events, but unfortunately we do not offer anything for the littler students after school. I think the movie title that describes me best is Game Plan. I am going to make a plan to add a section to my weekly newsletter where parents can write in any events their child is participating in that I could attend. I would like to find a way to build that relationship and make a more meaningful connection if there is an event I could attend that is not a school wide fall festival.
ReplyDeleteBrittany Connett PLA@93
It definitely is more difficult to support our younger kiddos when the school activities we have aren't geared towards them, but it's still wonderful that you attend the school wide events. Like the book said, even the students you may have in the future are noticing you there which I think is a great thing!
DeleteKayla Walker, PLA@103
I agree it is hard to find activities to attend for the little ones. Our school doesn't have sports teams for first grade and many just don't have the means to take dance classes, theatre, and participate in community sports teams. I do know some teachers who will get permission from parents to take students to a museum, an ice cream shop, or McDonalds after school just so they have that extra time to bond.
DeleteDessalee Cook Greater Heights Academy
Finding activities for the younger grades is something I have struggled with so far in my career since I have only worked with kindergarten and first grade. My students would always talk about the activities their older siblings were involved in, but were to young to be involved in the activities themselves. A lot of people swear by home visits so that could be a possible option.
Delete-Courtney Sandmann (Main Prep)
I like the idea of attending some of my students' activities. It is easier now because I don't have little kids involved with their own activities anymore. I do attend and participate in the fall festival at our school, along with the evening honor roll program, and the ice cream social. In the past I have attended basketball games that my students participated in. They do enjoy seeing their teachers come to their events! This should be a goal of mine this next year to try to attend more events. Gale Reed PLA@93
ReplyDeleteI agree that it's definitely easier to attend events now that my own kids are grown and moved out. It was always difficult to have to say no to kids when my boys had events or to miss my own kids events when there were required school events for work. I'm enjoying having an empty nest and still being able to go to sports games and other events that involve "my children". My first grandson is only a year old but I'm not looking forward to having to choose between his events and school kids events in the future. Grandson will definitely win those battles though.
DeleteI agree with being involved in the after school activities. the fall festival and the others we had this year were great.
DeleteI love the idea of an event calendar with in the classroom. This does make it harder have Primary but they do see it and have their parents email or send in schedules to be added. I know the kids love seeing their teachers outside of school. My own kids play multiple sports and they enjoy seeing their teachers at their games. The teachers coming to one game out of the season really puts a smile on their face. My kids remember the games and which teachers came.
ReplyDeleteNicole, I also like the event calendar idea, especially as my school gets larger each year! It gets harder and harder to keep track of all of the different teams, who is playing home/away, who's games are close, etc. Add in trying to coordinate if someone can take pictures for Yearbook, and you can see why it would make sense to have it all in one place! I think it would be beneficial for students, staff, and families to have one.
DeleteAshley Pierce - JRPLA
I love the idea of attending scholars' extracurricular activity events. This is a tad difficult with primary since they're not old enough for the sports we due offer. I did like that he brought up school dances because that's one of my favorite events to attend. I love getting to see the scholars having a good time, and how exciting they get when they see me there.
ReplyDeleteMovie Title: I feel like "Game Plan" is most fitting, but often times things don't go according to plan due to scheduling conflicts. I agree that it gives you another connection with that scholar and family to build rapport, so I do like to put those dates in my calendar regardless. Even if I'm unable to make it, it serves as a reminder to ask about it later on.
Kayla Walker, PLA@103, Hack #3
I think it is wonderful that you attend school dances. This really makes a lot of difference for the scholars. This shows that you are dedicated to them as a whole person and not simply as a grade in a book. I think in Primary grades it would be nice to attend birthday functions if invited.
DeleteMelissa Bailey GVPLA
I truly enjoy attending my scholars' athletic (basketball, track) and academic events (spelling bee, IQ League, MathCon, etc). I have organized student-led poetry competitions and writing contests. My scholars also got a kick out of me bringing my son to games and events!
ReplyDeleteTricia- Middlebury Academy Akron, OH
Tricia,
DeleteMy students would ask me if I was going to go to their activities. They really wanted me there. I would go to as many as I could. I enjoyed talking to my parents too. The next day we would acknowledge the students that had an activity.
DeEtta Crane
Greater Heights Academy
Honestly, I've never seen any of the movies, but I'm guessing I'd be a "Game Plan" person as I try to juggle my own family with my "kids" aka scholars.
ReplyDeleteTricia- Middlebury Academy Akron, OH
Action 1: I agree with the quote. I have not connected with students out of the classroom like I should, but I know a teachers who does. She will finds ways to go to her student’s events whether they be on campus or off school grounds. She will also connects with parents constantly. Whether it be to praise students or reach out for parental advice on how to best support their child. She also has high expectations both in class and out of class for her students. I seldom heard her talk negative about any of her students. This teacher is one who I have tried to model, but I want to make this year the year I do it. After this Covid-19 experience I have done a lot of reflecting on my own practices as a teacher. I have made connections with students and parents like I have never done in the past and know I can see how important they are in order to be the teacher I want to be.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: The movie title that reflects my involvement is “Game Plan.” I live about 35 minutes from work and my day seems so long and the idea of staying longer can be tiresome. However, this upcoming year I want to really work on being more involved with the students out of the classroom so I can be like the teacher I spoke of earlier.
Dessalee Cook/Greater Heights Academy
I had that same issue my third year of teaching. My commute was anywhere from 35-45+ minutes depending on traffic and if I had any errands to run. It made it really hard to stay for after school activities. Once I got used to my timing of when to leave, it helped me balance when I could stay and when I couldn't.
DeleteAshley Pierce - JRPLA
Action 1: I agree with the quote. It is easier to see a scholar as a whole person when we take the time to get to know them outside of academic time. I think that this is just as important for the scholar. If they see you are making an effort to show them you care, they are more likely to respect you and listen to your advice and lessons. Anytime a person feels seen they are more prone to pay closer attention. This will roll over into your discipline as well. If your scholars feel like you care, many issues will be addressed prior to becoming distractions within the classroom.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: The movie that reflects my involvement is probably the game plan. This is because I feel like I am learning how to balance my own life and the lives of my scholars. I have never had to actually balance my own personal life and engagement with students before as this is my first year. I am however coming up with ideas to where I can balance bringing my own children to any events asked of me. I practiced this last year during student teaching. My children came to the Halloween party with me. They got to walk around and trunk or treat alongside some of the kiddos from my classoom.
Balancing life and all things school related can be a difficult task. I love your idea of bringing your children to events. This is such a great way to show your students a snippet of your personal life. I do not have kids, but I have brought my mom and dad to various after school events and also on field trips. My students always get a kick out of seeing my family and learning that I have a mom and dad too even though I'm a "grownup."
Delete-Courtney Sandmann (Main Prep)
I agree that you need a game plan, and work on it.
DeleteI think that the quote is spot on. Students love to feel heard and seen outside of the classroom. Connecting with students outside of the classroom is a great way to show students you really care about them. When students feel cared for they are willing to work harder in the classroom and want to meet the expectations you have set for them. I have previously taught first grade and my students were not involved in a lot of extracurriculars because of their age. That means it was quite difficult to see students outside of the classroom. That being said, I went to every after school event to support any of my students that came. It was always funny to watch their reactions when they saw me in “normal” clothes. I would also bring my mom to some of the events and students loved to see that I had a mom just like them. After the events, my students would be so eager to get to school and talk about everything. I noticed that their attitudes were much more positive and excited to be interacting with me immediately following the event.
ReplyDeleteI would say the movie title that best describes my level of involvement is a little bit of “Clueless” and a little bit “Limitless.” I would say I am clueless because with students so young, I struggle to find ways to meet students outside of the classroom aside from home visits, which weren’t allowed at my previous school. I would say I also fit the limitless movie because I am very willing to do anything for my students. I would love to be able to go to as many events as I can. I feel like this might be a difficult task this year due to Covid, but I am still all in and ready to support my students in any way possible.
-Courtney Sandmann (Main Prep)
I totally agree with the quote. It is about to give and take. If want my students time and interest, I must also give my time and interest. It is hard to make time to attend my students extracurricular activities especially when my own kids have extracurricular activities almost at the same time. I remember a time when a student asked me to attend to his last game of the season. I had asked my daughter to find a ride to go back home so the I can make on time to the game. She refused because she also want me to see her cheering for her team. She agreed to come along to the game. We made it to the last decisive minutes of the game. The excitement of the moment with students, parents and other staff was priceless. Afterwards, we had so many conversations with my students and my own daughter. It was a win, win situation.
ReplyDeleteThe movie that best describes me is "The Game Plan". At the beginning, I demand discipline as I knew it. It took to really get to know my students and realized that sometimes I needed to be like them. The following quote from the movie resides with me the most " You have been playing kid your entire life, I just joint the Dads' team" Being a transition to teaching teacher, It is taking me a lot of learning to be confident and enjoy teaching.
Betty Salgado( JRPLA)
Action #1- As a classroom teacher, the first quarter was spent going above and beyond trying to build relationships with students. Hard work in the beginning of the year paid off towards the end. Of course, there were always a few students that took continued effort through the year. In my experience, taking time to work with students in small groups, listening to any of their concerns, and maintaining a genuine relationship with them always worked for me in gaining a student’s trust and respect.
ReplyDeleteAction #2- definitely “Game Plan”. I needed to balance between work and my own family.
-Jeff Hendricks
PLA93
I agree with the quote and love the idea of sharing outside events by videos to keep everyone updated. I realize that students love to share their ideas, what's happening at home or after school events. I am in the halls before school and the K thru first grade come down my halls past the library. That short contact with a high five, smile, comment starts my day and their day off in a positive manner.Project Read takes place in my library after school, this gives me time to interact with student at an off academic environment. I help when time allows or when volunteers aren't able to show up. Students know I care about them beyond teaching and it does affect their behavior and efforts when they are with me in any setting. It's building mutual respect by sharing a precious commodity---time ....that is often not given to our school population outside of school. Some of my student's send me thank you notes for listening to their concerns. One 5th grade students once said---we can talk about anything with you ---we like that. She knows I don't judge anyone---on their beliefs and customs and enjoy learning new things---that is my life philosophy and the students know that through our off academic discussions.
ReplyDeleteTopic 2-movies---I haven't seen these movies but I believe I would fall into the middle rage as far a participation in outside activities. I live 45-50 minutes from school and arrive at school at around 6:50 to be ready for the 7:10 bus arrival. These student's came to my library last year to wait until the second round of buses arrived. We had time to talk at a more personal level. They often did their homework and I gave them help with their lessons and praised them for their efforts---continually telling them how smart they were in doing their work. I tried to give them special pages to use colored pencils with----3-D abstract art, as well as more simplified art pieces. Some chose to sleep and I respected that personal need as well. I believe next year that I will post an event calendar outside the library so that all students become familiar with activities outside the school hours. I would love to have a tape of the events running in one of my two trophy windows that I now use for library displays. This would show students some school spirit that goes on after school, pride in their school efforts and also see teachers attending these events, the successes of other students...etc. Jean Faillace TLJ Academy, Ft. Wayne, IN
Topic 1: I agree with the quote! Students are so excited when their teachers show up for their concerts, plays and sports activities. As far as in-school events, I try to attend as many as I can. I always get a smile and a wave from the soccer field, basketball court, baseball diamond, etc. Attending student events makes our relationships stronger because it shows how much we care. Therefore, students are more willing to go the extra mile in class.
ReplyDeleteTopic 2: Game Plan. I have a family and my children are also involved in sports and acting. Although I enjoy supporting my students, I do not miss the activities my own children are participating in.
Anne MacDonald
A+ Arts Academy
Fair Campus
I too believe that family comes first, so having a Game Plan is a great way to ensure that you don't miss your child's events while committing to attend a scholars'
DeleteHack 1: I believe that scholars love seeing their teachers at events outside of the classroom. My son plays baseball and his kindergarten, first grade and second grade teachers have all taken the time out of their busy Saturday and have come to watch him play. I know that he was happy to see that his teachers came to his game, but as a parent it really meant a lot to me to see them there. It meant that my child was more than just a student in their classroom, but he mattered to them and they wanted to invest some time into their relationship outside of the classroom.
ReplyDeleteHack 2: Limitless - I have attended countless after school activities and games on Saturdays. I often times tell the scholar how much I enjoyed watching them play and I believe that it creates a bond between the scholar and myself.
I agree with quote because students need to see their teachers a real people. I work with the younger students and they do not realize that teachers have a life outside of school because that is the only place they see us. If we were more involved with their lives out side of school then maybe we could show them that we we share some of the same interests. I live in a different county and it is about 30 minutes away from the inner city charter school that I teach at. There are not many times I have been involved in their extra activities. I have tried to go to some events that some of my schools have had but it is difficult when my own children are in their activities. At some of my previous schools I have been to their choir concerts, basketball games and other activities. I attend the activities and events that are in my children's school district and I see how important it is for the students to see their teachers at school functions. At this point I'm probably the clueless movie because I'm not sure what activities the school has to offer. I know they don't have any middle school sports teams. My last school had a volleyball and basketball team. I hope that in the future we can have some extracurricular activities at my school.
ReplyDeleteOne of my scholars who I coached in basketball tried her best on every assignment in my class. Her attempts to maintain a positive attitude and show respect even carried over to other classes because she knew I would check in on her and my other athletes.
ReplyDeleteBecause of my coaching experience, I would have to say that I'm more of the 2nd movie type. I would even engage my other scholars in conversations about extracurricular activities and use them to motivate scholars to always do their best so they can prepare for the the next year's sports if they were currently too young to participate.
I 100% agree with the quote from the book. Being involved in our scholars lives outside of the classroom shows them we care about them as people, not just their work and grades. In past schools I've been a volleyball coach and led other after school clubs and activities. Building those relationships with students outside of class definitely showed in the classroom through student effort and behavior. Currently I try to make it to as many school events as possible but because my schedule doesn't always allow it I go out of my way to spend time with scholars during the day. I have "lunch bunch" at least once a week and our rule is that it is our time to talk and share but it cannot be about class or work. We usually talk about what they have planned or did on the weekend, activities their involved in outside of school or their families.
ReplyDeleteI'm definitely a Game Plan type of teacher. My own kids are grown but, because of my husbands work schedule there are times I have to be home when there are events going on. I plan really hard to be at as many events as possible, especially when my kids are involved.
I had students come eat lunch with me also. It was my favorite time of finding out about my students since they didn't do many extracurricular activities for me to attend.
DeleteColleen Hanrahan, A+ Arts Academy
I agree we do need to see students outside the classroom. I like to talk to them at recess, before school and after school. Most my interaction to find what interests them is at dismissal. When buses are called one at a time it gives time to see them and talk. Some of them open up and those are the ones I have a good relationship with. Others it takes some work to get them to open up about what interest them. Building open and safe relationships helps. The movie I relate to is The Game Plan. You have to work on being involved... It takes time to get them to trust you.
ReplyDeleteMackcine Jordan @ PLA 103
DeleteGreetings Ms. Sherfick: Your reply sounds like the end of my school day too. Thanks for sharing!!!
Action 1: I agree that showing support to scholars outside of the classroom is very important. The scholars feel a sense of love and care when we show interest in their extracurricular activities. In turn the scholar shows respect to the teacher and this goes a long way.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: The movie that best describes me and my involvement in extracurricular activities is "The Game Plan". I need to work harder in being more present in my students' outside activities. The past two years I had a scholar that participated in choir and he just lit up when he saw me at his rehearsals and one of the performances.
Clarissa Price PLA @Jones Clark Elementary
Mackcine Jordan @ PLA 103
DeleteHello Ms. Price: Thank you so much for sharing. We are in same camp when it comes to the movie. I to need to work at supporting my scholars outside of the normal school day. Nice to know that I am not alone. Have a great week!
Mackcine Jordan @ PLA 103
Mackcine Jordan @ PLA103
ReplyDeleteAction 1: In my opinion, scholars need to know that you care about them inside and outside of the classroom. However, going the extra-mile gives them a glimpse of you away from the classroom. I truly believe that this is a way to build strong relationships with your scholars and parents.
Mackcine Jordan@PLA 103
Action 2: I believe the best movie title that describes my level of involvement with extracurricular activities is: The Game Plan. As a result of the reading, I will become more involved in the lives of my students outside of the classroom. Our school has made a conscience effort to stay involved in the lives of our scholars in and outside of the normal school day.
Mackcine Jordan@PLA103
Action 1: I agree, although throughout the years I make a point of having a relationship with my students, when I taught third grade and I was given a class in Q2, I started tutoring Mon-Thurs. my class, for one hour a day after class to help support the scholars and focused on reading to pass the IREAD, during this time I really came to bond at a deeper level with each scholar, the ones that gave me grief, started to do it less and less, to this date after 3 years, they still come and ask me when are we going to have tutoring Mrs. Luna. I still tutored them last year in fourth grade, only twice a week, but it was worth it. It is hard to give your time, but it also has a very satisfying result. I try to participate at our school activities if my personal schedule allows. It creates a different bond with the students and the teacher.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: The Gameplan is the movie that would describe me, as I live 30-40 min away, I have to plan when I stay so my family is taken care of. I look forward to putting up an event calendar next year.
Action 1: I agree with the above quote that connections with scholars outside of the classroom, helps immensely in the classroom. Every year I have taught so far I have been involved in something with school that would be considered an extracurricular. I've coached soccer and basketball, chaired a dance committee, advised for and published multiple yearbooks, and have attended as many sporting events as I can for all sports. When I coached, my team wanted to do very well in class because they knew it would reflect how our practices/games would go later in the day. We needed to be in sync in the classroom and on the field.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: The movie title that best describes my level of involvement with extracurricular activities is - Limitless. I try to be open to new areas I can help my school and scholars, however, it's a delicate balance. Being a team player helps everyone out in the long haul and helps make you well-rounded in what's new in a variety of topics.
Ashley Pierce - JRPLA
Ashley, I agree! Being a team player is so important especially within a Charter School. So many people wear so many hats...I love including my family in these events because it gives the students a look into my life as well,
DeleteAngela Posey PLA@103
ReplyDeleteAction 1- I definitely buy into the fact that the payoff is huge when we connect with students away from school. The student gets to see you in a different role other than a teacher. In the past I have had students to bring me their basketball schedule etc, and I have attended the event. This interaction builds positve relationships with parents and students. It has always been my experience that if you have a meaningful relationship with a parent,the parent will be very supportive of you. The student is proud to have his/her teacher coming to their event.
Action 2- I would definitely choose Game Plan since I have to be strategic in my planning. That's why I always ask the student to bring me a schedule.
Action 1: I agree with the quote above that making connections outside the classroom helps build better relationships in the classroom. When I see my students outside of the classroom whether it be at an after school event or at their homes they light up. I have seen the better relationship I have with my students the better their behavior is and willingness to work.
ReplyDeleteAction 2: In the past I would choose the movie title Limitless. I try to be at events so I can make connections with my scholars and their families. I will probably need to choose Game Plan now since I live 45 minutes away and back in school again.
Dottie Lerche @PLA103
I absolutely agree with your movie choice in my life as well. I have to have a "Game Plan" because I live a little over an hour away from where I work. It is hard to stay after for everything. I love going to as many events as I can, but I know that I cannot make it to everything.
DeleteAction #1:
ReplyDeleteI agree with the statement connecting with students on perhaps a personal level or something that they like doing. I've been invited to outside events by my students, but due to personal issues like having two young daughters who are also a part of outside school events and their schedule conflicting with my students schedule caused me not to make some of my students events. I never thought about the benefits of this like getting to know your students on a different level which helps to better understand them can be translated into a better in class relationship and a new level of respect is also established.
Action 2: the movie title that describes my level of involvement with extracurricular activities has been showing up 2 after school events for not my students but students I've taught in the past that are now the age to participate in after-school events. I teach kindergarten and I know that even at this age they participate in extracurricular events so I plan on using the ideas such as talking with students and parents about Scholars upcoming events, see if I can get a schedule and also creating an event board and do my best to commit to supporting my students at their events.
I am really enjoying this book. So far, great Hacks to implement.
Deborah Dominick
PLA@Uones-Clark Elem.
Beaumont, Tx
I definitely agree with the quote, but this is also the hack that I have the hardest time with. I live at least 30 minutes from my school/students' activities and have my own children. My students this past year also were not involved with a lot of extracurricular activities, but the one I heard about was football. However, I tended to hear about the games after the fact. I need to do better at finding out about events ahead of time, but was able to pick up good ideas from the chapter and other teacher's responses.
ReplyDeleteAs far as the movie that best describes my level of involvement, it would be Clueless. I struggled finding out about the activities my students were involved with, but I do see the benefit of getting to know my students outside of the classroom. Last year, I invited students to have lunch with me. It started as a reward, but as I started to see it help in building relationships with my students, I opened up the opportunity to others.
Colleen Hanrahan, A+ Arts Academy
I absolutely agree that making connections outside of the classroom are important. I have taught grades 3-8 at some point in my teaching career and in every grade, if those students don't think that you care about them, they will not care about what you have to say at all. With some students, it takes a lot to gain their trust. Going to the activities outside of the classroom helps with this. When I was teaching 7th grade, I had many boys that became better students for me because they saw that I cared about them and helped them with things that didn't directly go with the lesson plan. I helped them see that if they kept their cool on the soccer field or football field, that they got better results. They came to me and talked when they needed to because they knew that I would listen and do what I could to help. This helped me during class time because they worked well for me because I did what I could for them.
ReplyDeleteChapter 3 How Supporting Students Outside the Classroom Reaps Benefits Within the Classroom
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is important to know your students outside the classroom. We would write the names of the players on the board and acknowledge them in our morning meeting. I always tried to go to my student’s games. I would work the door or the concession table sometimes. It was a great time to get to know the parents and families better.
I posted sports calendars in my room. I liked the Event Board, I am going to implement that in my classroom.
DeEtta Crane
Greater Heights Academy
I 100% agree that making connections outside the classroom is important. I would say that it is almost more important because once you develop relationships with your students that are built off of more than academia, they will be more willing to participate and contribute in the classroom due to you showing them you care. I plan on trying to support my students outside of the classroom through sports, dance, etc.
ReplyDeleteI think the movie that would best describe me is Game Plan. I feel this way because I know what I need to do, it is just time to execute the plan. I plan to execute supporting my students outside of the classroom by creating a "community event board" in my classroom. On the board, all students will be able to share events they would like classmates or teachers to attend. I will regularly note these events and try to attend as many for each child as possible.
Kelsey Barrix
PLA 103
Chapter 3 How Supporting Students Outside the Classroom Reaps Benefits Within the Classroom
ReplyDeleteI am in total agreement with the quote from the book. My first year teaching I committed to attend as many extra curriculars as I could for my students. I was teaching first grade at the time, so I found myself at Birthday Parties, skate parks, baseball fields, basketball games and gymnastic events. I also have tried to be active in all school events. I believe that it is important for all students, not just your class, to see that you support and care about them. By doing this I have developed relationships not just with students but the entire family. Over the years, these relationships have allowed me to be involved in many life events beyond the classroom.When I receive Graduation announcements from students I have not seen in years it proves that forming relationships is key .
The movie that describes me is Limitless. I really do try to fit it all in. If a child invites me to an event outside of school, I will be there if it is possible. At school, I have been known to recruit my family to work events if needed.
Lisa Roark
GHA