April 2024 – Happy Schools

What Will YOUR Students Remember?

April 25, 2024

Think back to who your favourite teacher was when YOU were a student. Now think about WHY you chose that particular teacher. The reason almost invariably comes back to the way that particular teacher made you feel. “I remember a teacher who made me feel welcome, safe and important. She saw something special in me.” Many people comment on how much the teacher cared about them, how they made them feel and how they took a genuine interest in them. How many of YOUR students, when confronted with the same question at some stage in their future, will name you? What will you be remembered for? Participants at a recent workshop said the following about their favourite teachers. “My teacher……

Little Acts of Kindness

April 18, 2024

Stevef

Engagement

One small, thoughtful gesture can make someone else’s day. Print out this list of kindness acts and check off as many as you can this week! Do something special for the staff in the front office at your school. Praise a fellow staff member – be specific about exactly what they did, that you liked and tell them how that made you FEEL. Put a little note in your child or partner’s lunch box, telling them how much you love them. Say “Good morning” to every stranger you see this morning. Write a letter to a child who could use some extra attention. Kids love getting mail. Offer to do duty for a colleague who needs a break. Say “I…

Relationships Are Important in Managing Student Behaviour

April 11, 2024

Stevef

Effectiveness

I’ve often heard the statement ‘students don’t learn from people they don’t like!’ In ‘Kids These Days’, author and psychologist Jody Carrington says, “Kids won’t learn from people who they think don’t like them.” This statement resonates with me and is consistent with behaviour management guru Bill Rogers’ position that the best teachers are warm-demanding. They have that balance where they have the warmth to relate to students but are also demanding and have clear expectations of their students. Teachers who are too warm and want to be every students BFF are unlikely to be respected. However, teachers who are too strict and gruff (They follow the “Don’t smile until Easter” philosophy), are unlikely to engage students. The sweet spot…

Decide Like A General

April 4, 2024

Stevef

Effectiveness

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, where challenges can often feel like battlefronts, the wisdom of military strategy can offer valuable insights. Just as generals must navigate complex terrain, staff in schools must navigate the intricacies of molding young minds and managing educational environments. Here are some key principles borrowed from the world of generals to help guide decision-making in schools: Vision and Mission Like generals, educators must have a clear vision and mission. What are the overarching goals of the school? What values do you want to instill in your students? By defining these objectives, every decision can be aligned with the broader purpose of education. Situational Awareness Generals excel at understanding the battlefield and educators must similarly grasp…