Yes, you read that right. Stickers. I’ve worked in several schools over the years, and no matter the zip code, class size, or curriculum, one thing never changes: I’m the teacher with the stickers. You’ll find them tucked in my lesson plan book, on my desk, or peeking out of
Let’s be honest—being a secondary science teacher means wearing a lot of hats. We’re not just teaching content; we’re nurturing curiosity, encouraging problem-solving, and helping students discover their place in a complex world. That’s why it’s so important to take a step back and recognize our students—not just for their
Ah, the first week of school. The energy in the building is a mix of excitement, nerves, and fresh-start optimism. New faces, unopened notebooks, and a full year of scientific discovery ahead. For teachers, the first week is more than just introductions and reviewing rules. It is your chance to
April Fool’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by injecting some humor and fun into your science class? As educators, we know the importance of keeping students engaged and excited about learning, and what better way to do that than with a few
You might be a high school teacher if you read the blog title and worried just a little bit about what it might reveal! Because we know as high school science teachers that high school can be a wild ride for many! But here’s the thing, it can be a
I used to teach science last period on Fridays. By the end of the week, students were already checked out—ready for the weekend—and honestly, so was I! One day, we were teaching about how to measure the angle of Polaris using the horizon, and I noticed most students were staring
Parent-teacher conferences are crucial for fostering a productive partnership between educators and parents. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss a student’s progress, address concerns, and build a strong support system for the child’s education. However, not all parent-teacher conferences are smooth sailing. Occasionally, teachers encounter angry or upset parents
There’s something I used to dread at the beginning of every class. Not the copier jam. Not even the mysterious yogurt spill in the back of the room. Nope—it was attendance. That tiny checkbox task that somehow stole time, energy, and my chance to actually connect with students at the
As teachers in middle school and high school we know that having a strong knowledge of our subject matter is only one key to success. Another key to success, and perhaps one that might dominate all others, is having effective classroom management strategies. No matter how much we know our
As educators, we have the incredible opportunity to shape the lives of our students and inspire them to reach their full potential. While we play a crucial role in their academic journey, we must not overlook the vital influence parents have on their child’s success. Establishing effective parent communication right
Those first few days back to school are always filled with excitement and a little bit of anxiety too. This is true for teachers and students. However, you can channel this energy, both within yourself and your students, to establish a positive atmosphere that sets the tone for the entire
Let’s be real: walking into a classroom that feels chaotic or cold doesn’t do anyone any favors—especially when you’re trying to build a space that’s calm, focused, and ready for learning. But classroom decor? That’s a tricky one for high school teachers. So many of the “Pinterest-perfect” ideas floating around
