Project Ideas

My goal is to improve student learning.  I think if I can focus on building relationships with each and every student, that would be a great start.  My belief is that students learn best when families are connected to the learning.  So...along with building my bridges to each student, I also want their families more involved.  I ask all families to join my classdojo.  Most of them do! I use this as a message sending of important dates, notices, individual communication and class pictures of fun activities.  The texting will translate to 35 languages, very convenient.

The new piece I would like to use to help get families more involved in student learning is the Digital Portfolio. I'm thinking about giving each student an electronic checklist, where each quarter they have to choose their best piece of work from reading, writing, math, science/social studies to add to the portfolio.  I will offer choices of recording work as well.  Digital portfolio offers video recording or just voice recording, maybe for a fluency check.  This way, parents will be able to see their child's growth over the school year.

Success for each student is individual, however, it all begins with a growth mindset. I start the school year with telling my students that I believe in each and every one of them.  They need to believe in themselves.  The power of "YET" also goes a long way.  Classdojo has some great 4-5 minute videos called "Big Ideas" that teach and support Social Emotional Learning.  Some of the lessons include Growth Mindset, Mindfulness, Gratitude, Moods & Attitudes, Empathy, Positive Thinking and Perseverance.  

My hope is to get more family connection/involvement so more learning will happen!