Civics, the study of the rights and duties of citizens, is an essential subject often pushed aside in favor of heavily tested core subjects like reading and math. In this article, we explore how teaching civics from a young age fosters informed, engaged citizens. From classroom elections to community projects, educators can integrate civics into the curriculum, helping students understand their role in society and government. Learn about the benefits of including civics in education and how it shapes future voters and leaders.
Good communication between teachers and parents is crucial for student success. In this article, we explore why effective communication keeps students accountable, helps families stay informed, and supports academic and behavioral progress. Learn strategies for building strong connections with families through apps, phone calls, and in-person involvement. Whether it’s sharing academic updates or celebrating small victories, keeping families in the loop can unlock success for students at all grade levels.
This article explores the current state of teacher professional development, addressing the challenges that often undermine its effectiveness, such as one-size-fits-all approaches, lack of collaboration, and insufficient time for skill mastery. It also proposes solutions to improve PD sessions to better support teachers and student success, especially in light of the ongoing teacher shortages and burnout.
Learn how to teach difficult history topics through primary sources. Explore how to engage students with real historical documents, encourage critical thinking, and address complex issues like slavery and the Civil War, while fostering open discussion about historical figures and events.
In this article, The Art of Inclusion in the Classroom, we explore the history and evolution of inclusion classrooms, where students of all abilities learn together in a meaningful way. From the historical exclusion of students with disabilities to the modern practices of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, we delve into the progress and challenges educators face in creating successful, neurodiverse classrooms. The article offers practical strategies for teachers, such as implementing the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework and fostering equity, to ensure all students thrive in an inclusive setting. Learn how to make inclusion classrooms work and create a supportive learning environment for every child.
Hi, I’m Julia Bashore. I’m an elementary school teacher with ten years of experience in Richmond, Virginia. Though I considered
This blog post explores the history, progress, and challenges faced by teachers’ unions in the U.S., including the role of the NEA and AFT in improving working conditions, advocating for civil rights, and navigating modern controversies such as pandemic-related school closures and political debates in education.
Explore the history and impact of the factory model of education in this article. From its origins in Prussia to its widespread use in the U.S. and England, we discuss the benefits and downsides of this standardized system, and look at alternative approaches to engage students’ creativity and critical thinking.