Teaching and learning in grades 4-8

Interpreting Six Common Teacher Nightmares

Teacher-author Roxanna Elden has prepared “a completely unscientific, non-research-based guide” to six common teacher nightmares. They may sound all too familiar to fellow educators. See if she’s analyzed a dream you recognize and share another of your own.

Effective Time Management for School Leaders

In “Get Organized!” Frank Buck offers a fast, functional read to help all educators get and stay organized. It will be a favorite go-to manual for any school leader eager to increase the most valuable resource in education – time, says ASCD Emerging Leader Michael Janatovich.

Another Nonfiction Winner from Beers and Probst

In their follow-up to Notice & Note, Kylene Beers & Robert Probst consider the importance of stance, the power of signposts & the role of strategies in helping students become effective readers of nonfiction in every subject. Teacher Linda Biondi celebrates their success.

The All-You-Can-Eat Math Resources Buffet

A steady flow of new district teaching resources is creating a more-than-you-can-eat buffet effect for 4th grade teacher Mary Tarashuk. Take the new online math program. Can she manage to put together the right selection of new dishes and old favorites?

A Checklist for New & Aspiring Principals

Matt Renwick recommends The Principal 50 by Baruti Kafele to principals and AP’s just transitioning from the classroom to the front office. The book’s 50 topics range from a leader’s attitude to school culture, instructional leadership, accountability and more.

The 5 Craziest Times of the School Year

You know those times where the kids are so spun up that you suspect nothing you say will be remembered tomorrow? You ask yourself, “Why am I even trying to teach today?!” Veteran educator Patti Grayson casts her votes for the most inattentive days of the year.

Involving Math Students in Formative Assessment

Bringing Math Students into the Formative Assessment Equation is in a league of its own by focusing solely on the middle level math educator who wants to write effective learning targets. Educator Maia Fastabend already plans to employ some of the book’s tools.