Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 to January 1. According to the book “The Seven Days of Kwanzaa” by Angela Shelf Medearis, “In 1966, Dr. Karenga created Kwanzaa, a cultural holiday based upon the ancient customs of Africa … Dr. Karenga hoped that the things that were studied and practiced during Kwanzaa would guide African-Americans…
Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 to January 1. According to the book “The Seven Days of Kwanzaa” by Angela Shelf Medearis, “In 1966, Dr. Karenga created Kwanzaa, a cultural holiday based upon the ancient customs of Africa … Dr. Karenga hoped that the things that were studied and practiced during Kwanzaa would guide African-Americans…
I remember when the time off at the end of December and the beginning of January was called Christmas break. Even though all of my classmates might not have celebrated Christmas in a religious or non-religious way, that is what break was called. In elementary school, I had an awesome music teacher, Mrs. Susan Tidrow….
It can be hard for school staff to make it through until winter break. Some staff crossed the finish line with burn marks. Many times, school leaders will tell school staff to focus on themselves and relax during the two-week break. Even if they follow this advice, it is a short-term fix to long-term issues….
The struggle seems to become the most real right before a long break. Regardless of what type of school calendar a school uses, most schools are closed for two weeks for winter break. The week before break does not have to cause worry and dread. Listen, I know some students seem to burst right through…
School district leaders strive to provide the best educational environment for their students. This could involve adopting new curricula, implementing new research-based teaching practices, or adjusting the academic school calendar. Adjusting the calendar could involve the start and end times of the school day or adjusting the days of the week when school takes place….
Although today is the last day of Native American Heritage Month, it should not be the last time Native Americans are included in teachers’ lesson plans. Native Americans are still here, and it is important to learn about them. Even if teachers don’t have Native Americans in their classes, they can at least ensure that…
Several news outlets and teachers on social media have noted the increase in misbehavior this school year. The pandemic has been labeled the culprit. Although schools are mostly seen as a place for students to learn academic content, any good teacher will tell you that you cannot teach content with a room full of students…
A few weeks ago, my husband and I attended our twin sons’ parent/teacher conference on Zoom. Our boys are in fifth grade and in the same class. The teacher shared how our sons were reading 6th and 7th grade level books. This did not come as a surprise to us. Our boys have been reading…
I consider myself an education advocate and activist. It is easy to become discouraged in the work of ensuring better outcomes for all children. Some days it seems like one step forward and two steps back. That frustration and anger can consume you. It can lead to burnout, and burnout can turn into hopelessness. Today,…