April 2021 – Happy Schools

Writing E-mail That Saves Time (part 2)

April 29, 2021

Last week we identified key strategies in reducing the stress created by email messages. Key strategies included using FYI in the subject line if the email is purely for information only and Response Required by DD/MM if a response is required by a certain deadline. Adding and adhering to these protocols is also important. Send separate messages When asking unrelated questions, use multiple e-mail messages. This makes it easier for others to reply to each question separately. This is an important point, but one many people get wrong – because it’s so easy to be lazy and put everything in the same message. Write better e-mail Use the spell-checker in your e-mail program to catch and correct simple spelling…

Writing E-mail That Saves Time (part 1)

April 22, 2021

Stevef

Communication

E-mail is one of the oldest Internet technologies but it still causes a lot of stress and annoyance among users. Part of this is undoubtedly because of the volume of e-mail we all deal with, but a large part is also because it’s so easy to write e-mail that’s confusing, easily misunderstood or even (unintentionally) upsetting. With a few simple techniques, you can help your colleagues be more productive when processing your e-mail. This is not just about being thoughtful and considerate of others – although that alone is reason enough. It also helps your own productivity because your e-mails will be clearer and easier to understand, so other people won’t have to keep writing back asking for more information.…

Disconnecting Is Vital

April 15, 2021

Stevef

Resilience

It can be difficult to disconnect from our work in schools. We often think about the challenges we face and worry about particular students, even when we are on holidays. Technological “improvements” have made us more connected than ever and this can have a negative effect on our well-being. The ability to disconnect is more important than ever. If we are constantly “on” and thinking about our work, our stress levels will be high and we are unlikely to be present in our home life. This has a negative effect on our relationships and our happiness. Dr Adam Fraser in his excellent book, “The Third Space” highlights the importance of transitioning between school and home. Creating an opportunity to leave…

5 Tips for Helping Students in NAPLAN Week

April 8, 2021

Stevef

Engagement

Keep Calm It is vital that staff in schools model a calm approach. OUR attitude is contagious and will be ‘caught’ by our students. It is therefore vital we manage our own stress levels, remain calm and do NOT become flustered. We need to be careful NOT to transfer high-stakes expectations onto our students. Pressure doesn’t help! Focus on encouraging students to do their best and trying hard. It is important to choose your words carefully when you speak. As with all learning activities we should put our focus squarely on effort rather than results. The only pressure on students should be to try hard rather than to do well. Keep NAPLAN in Context It is important to keep…

Tips For Reporting Success

April 1, 2021

Stevef

Effectiveness

The purpose of report card comments is simply to convey the big ideas and most important information parents need to know. The most important, not everything. Think about what you really need to document. What do you need to have proof that you have expressed in writing? Ensure the comments align with the students’ grades. If a student has earned below a “C” or expectations, in any area, I recommend explaining that briefly in the comments so there’s no confusion about why the student isn’t performing better. For some parents, it might be smart to explain the “C” grades as well. No Surprises – Problems should always have been communicated to parents through conferences, emails, voicemails, and other ongoing, proactive…