We Write

We Write

  I'm a writer.  I don't always write in 40 minute writing blocks.  Sometimes, I get stuck.    On many days, I wake up early to write.  Sometimes I try…
6 More Favorite Picture Books

6 More Favorite Picture Books

  As you know, some of our favorite picture books can be great tools for teaching about reading or the craft of writing. I always love sharing a good picture…
We Are All Captains

We Are All Captains

  I recently listened to the Worklife podcast with Adam Grant, in which he joined the Butler Bulldogs basketball team to explore the idea that too many All-Stars on one…
Kids, Mistakes, and Learning

Kids, Mistakes, and Learning

  Kids are going to make mistakes.  Little mistakes that have very little impact.  Big, bone-headed mistakes that cause pain and agony for others.  After all, they are kids.   …
Easy Like Sunday Morning

Easy Like Sunday Morning

One of my favorite songs of all time is the cover version of “Easy” by Faith No More. If you have never heard it, here it is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoE6SeSm268 I love…
PD Days

PD Days

  Our school-based PD days can tell us a lot about how educators view our professional learning opportunities. They can also tell us a lot about learning opportunities for students…
Your Message

Your Message

On his recent podcast, Tim Ferriss asked Author Daniel Pink the following question: If you could share one message or quote on a billboard that would reach millions of people,…
Being Defensive

Being Defensive

It seems like we spend a lot of our time being defensive.    It might be when presented with something new.  "That won't work."   Or when something we've been…
Center of Attention

Center of Attention

  They say that every picture tells a story. Think about what this picture says.    The teacher desk is the center of the room.  It is the center of…
Why the Arts Matter

Why the Arts Matter

  Great music fosters joy and connection. Great books foster joy and connection. Great plays foster joy and connection. Great artworks foster joy and connection.   The arts foster joy…