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With the rapid outbreak and global crisis that COVID-19 presents, thousands of schools have been forced to close to preserve the safety of students and their families. With this recent and jarring shift to online schooling, teachers find themselves responsible for the continuing education and growth of their students from an inconvenient distance. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="1048" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-7OfOvGFQQ/XrB4ov68olI/AAAAAAAAALQ/J9tpSQeG19k82CyVfIOcd7MMLnGrDL0bgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_331412996.jpg" width="640" /></div><div> </div><div>While there are many challenges to teachers with the rapid use of online learning, some issues are more severe than others. However, here are the 10 most common teaching challenges educators face, along with helpful solutions. 1) Problem: Educators cannot perform their jobs up to the usual standard. Students and teachers are facing this issue all across the globe; teachers trained to instruct in a classroom setting cannot perform and teach as effectively when distanced from their students (Winthrop). Solution: Use verified online resources to teach as regularly as possible. While virtual learning is not the same as learning in a physical classroom, teachers can take advantage of a plethora of online resources to continue teaching their students with as much normality as possible. Teachers can record videos of themselves teaching, host video conferences for their students to ask questions, and can continue to give assignments through online platforms. While online learning is not ideal, it will help students continue their education until regular school is in session. 2) Problem: Students are not staying engaged. Without the constant guidance and instruction of a present educator, teachers are noticing that their students are not performing well in classes or completing assignments (Saavedra). Solution: Encourage teamwork between parents and teachers. Teachers are noticing that the more involved students’ parents are, the more likely they are to succeed. As students communicate with teachers and encourage them to help their students stay on task, complete their assignments, and focus on their schoolwork, teachers will see academic improvement in their students (Saavedra). Online schooling cannot be done alone; teachers need parents to help from home to achieve student growth. 3) Problem: Not all students have equal access to technology. With the closure of schools and the subsequent shift to online learning, many teachers are noticing that some students do not have access to the needed technology to attend school online. This exposure of school inequity is disheartening and disruptive of the learning process (DeWitt). Solution: Lend school technology to students. Many schools are equipped with laptops, computers, or tablets to help students learn at school. Because not every child has access to technology at home, teachers and administrators can lend school technological resources to students so that all children have practical access to education opportunities. 4) Problem: Teachers cannot accurately track student academic progress. Previous to the Coronavirus pandemic, tracking student academic growth was relatively easy for teachers. Administration of tests, safeguarding against cheating, and other measures were easily implemented in-person. Now, however, teachers cannot prevent cheating at home on quizzes, assignments, or tests. Students who are struggling because of psychological pressures from the pandemic and those who need extra attention from teachers are not receiving the necessary instruction or are stressed, anxious, or depressed, significantly impacting their progress scores. Solution: Teachers can assign open-note exams and lighten students’ workloads. Although teachers would ideally be pushing their students to accomplish difficult tasks at this point in the school year, present circumstances justify lightening students’ course loads for the remainder of the academic school year. Teachers can assign easier or open-note exams so that there is no disputation about cheating. Educators and administrators understand that grades and academic performance at this point are not normal, and students should not be penalized for leniency on the part of the teacher. 5) Problem: Not all students know how to use the necessary technology to continue learning online. While teachers understand how to use online learning technology, not all students do. Teachers are finding it difficult to reach out to and instruct their students who do not know how to access or practically use their online resources. Solution: Teachers should make videos about how to use and access learning resources and keep their assignments, modules, and coursework simple. Teachers should film short, explanatory videos of themselves explaining how to use and complete assignments with helpful online resources. Teachers should also make sure that they are not overcomplicating assignments by using excessive modules, documents, or online resources. 6) Problem: Teachers still need to prepare their students for high-stakes tests. While many standardized tests and end-of-year assessments have been canceled, students enrolled in AP, IB, or CE courses are still expected to take their final assessments (DeWitt). Teachers responsible for preparing these students are finding it difficult to prepare students for impactful tests from an online platform. Solution: Use endorsed YouTube or instructional videos to help teach students. While endorsed YouTube and instructional videos are designed for AP, IB, and CE students, other teachers can use verified, informational media to help students prepare for tests or the next academic school year. Teachers can create study guides or encourage their students to take quick notes as they prepare, from afar, to take these tests. 7) Problem: Students have no incentive to complete their assignments. Without organized end-of-year standardized tests and an in-classroom teacher to motivate them, students do not have any incentive to do well in their classes. With many schools changing grades to “pass” or “fail” because of complications with COVID-19, students are losing initiative and desire to do well in school and are ignoring their classwork. Solution: Communicate with students and be encouraging. Teachers should frequently communicate with their students and motivate them to finish their school year positively. Personal encouragement from a teacher is proven to quickly help students want to succeed and make their teachers proud of what they have accomplished. 8) Problem: Frustration...with students, parents, and the current situation. Teachers around the world are feeling overwhelmed, disappointed, and stressed about their students. Exposure to high and sustained levels of stress are making teaching, progressive, and effective job completion difficult and discouraging. Solution: Practice patience with oneself and others. Although everyone is feeling frustrated, the ability to change the present circumstances is beyond the control of most people. While government leaders and health organizations continue to helpfully mitigate the damage of COVID-19, teachers can contribute to recovery efforts by practicing patience with themselves and their students. As teachers come to accept the extenuating and difficult results of such circumstances and place fewer demands upon themselves and others, they will be able to more effectively teach. 9) Problem: Teachers are missing their students. With the school year closing, many students will be moving on to a new grade level or new school. Teachers are accepting the disheartening realization that they will not be able to see or instruct their students again as they move on in their education. Solution: Keep in touch with students. While teachers will not be able to personally say goodbye to their students, teachers can keep up communication with their classes through email, school-approved group chats, and video conferences. Teachers will be able to enjoy the company of their students and continue to communicate with them before the school year closes. 10)&nbsp;Problem: The future of education is currently unknown. With new developments regarding COVID-19 and increasing concerns about maintaining student safety, it is difficult to predict how education and teaching will change at the beginning of the next academic year. Solution: Be flexible and take matters one step at a time. While it is difficult to face the unknown, teachers must learn to be flexible in the face of an uncertain future for the sake of their schools and students. Calm, level-headed teachers will contribute to making organized schools and increase the chances of successful education recovery. As teachers take these proven solutions into consideration, they will see increased participation from their students and will help them achieve greater academic success. As teachers move forward during the closing of this school year and the beginning of the next, they will be better prepared to meet further challenges and help their struggling students.</div><div> </div><div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">References:</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Winthrop, Rebecca. Brookings, “Top 10 risks and opportunities for education in the face of</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> COVID-19,” <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/blog/education-plus-development/2020/04/10/top-10-risks-and-opportunities-for-education-in-the-face-of-covid-19/" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.brookings.edu/blog/education-plus-development/2020/04/10/</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://www.brookings.edu/blog/education-plus-development/2020/04/10/top-10-risks-and-opportunities-for-education-in-the-face-of-covid-19/" style="text-decoration-line: none;">top-10-risks-and-opportunities-for-education-in-the-face-of-covid-19/</a>. April 10, 2020.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saavedra, Jane. World Bank Blogs, “Education challenges and opportunities of the Coronavirus&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> (COVID-19) pandemic,” <a href="https://blogs.worldbank.org/education/educational-challenges-and-opportunities-covid-19-pandemic" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://blogs.worldbank.org/education/educational-challenges-a</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://blogs.worldbank.org/education/educational-challenges-and-opportunities-covid-19-pandemic" style="text-decoration-line: none;">nd-opportunities-covid-19-pandemic</a> March 30, 2020.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">DeWitt, Peter. Education Week, “12 Critical Issues in Education Due to the Coronavirus,”</div><a href="https://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/finding_common_ground/2020/03/12_critical_issues_in_education_due_to_the_coronavirus.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/finding_common_ground/2020/03/12_critical_issues_in_education_due_to_the_coronavirus.html</a>. March 23, 2020.</div>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In an ever-changing, complex society based on communication, students must learn how to read. Reading affluently will not only be a valuable skill throughout one’s school experience and academic training but will also prove helpful to students as they travel, apply for career positions, and develop an understanding of local and national politics and events.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I3rErpZcnHw/XlmwbQHBvqI/AAAAAAAAAI4/IKX8r73_PuwGnTaw7Oox50bLWWIKiTcPwCEwYBhgL/s1600/AdobeStock_48343260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="1000" height="440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I3rErpZcnHw/XlmwbQHBvqI/AAAAAAAAAI4/IKX8r73_PuwGnTaw7Oox50bLWWIKiTcPwCEwYBhgL/s640/AdobeStock_48343260.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> Reading, however, does not come naturally to all students. While some students possess a natural talent for reading and writing, others may struggle to read or keep up with course work. To help promote growth for such students and to help students of all ages and skill levels improve their reading levels, teachers can enforce the following strategies: Encourage students to read every day As teachers already know, repeated, deliberate action helps students learn and remember concepts. When students are learning how to read or are seeking to improve their literacy levels, repetition is crucial. Continued, clockwork practice will keep ideas and words fresh on the minds of the students, and they will be able to practice their skills each day. Teachers should either provide time during the school day for students to read individually or should assign reading logs to students so they can track how much the student is reading at home. Teachers and parents can work together to make reading fun and exciting, encouraging children to read in their free time, before school, during car rides, before bed, or while waiting at a bus station. Teachers can also introduce students to books they will enjoy reading to get them excited about learning outside of school. As parents and teachers show students appropriate times where they may read, students will become passionate about literacy and will soon make it into a daily habit (Scholastic). Assign spelling and vocabulary tests Most students do not enjoy taking tests, but spelling or vocabulary tests can be crucial and play an essential role in expanding a student’s literacy levels. Spelling and vocabulary words will help students become more familiar with increasingly complex terms and will help them understand advanced texts. After studying the assigned terms for their upcoming test, students will be able to phonetically sound them out, spell them correctly, and recognize their significance in books or class texts. Teachers can administer spelling and vocabulary by assigning selected words to students. Teachers can assign different terms based on the levels and needs of each student. It is helpful when teachers allow students to study and practice spelling or defining their words for about one week before testing their students’ knowledge. Teachers can ask students to write down the word in the correct spelling or ask for a specific definition as part of their comprehensive tests. As they do so, students will learn basic oratory and written rules for their language of study. They will be able to identify similar words, patterns, and meanings as they continue to read and experience growth. Assign partner-based reading time While it is crucial for students to fluently read on their own, teachers find it useful to pair students with a partner for their reading study. Students can learn from each other, use problem-solving skills to unriddle complicated or advanced words, and can get advice or personal help from a friend their age, a teacher, or a parent at home. Teachers can assign practical portions of a textbook, novel, magazine, or newspaper to their students. They can instigate in-class discussion and divide students into partnerships or can assign their students to read with a parent as homework. Teachers can also learn with students during class, always alternating between one partner and the other. Students can fill out comprehensive worksheets that ask easy questions about the text or have a discussion about what they learned from the reading. Read out-loud to students Parents, guardians, or teachers are often encouraged to read out loud to their students (Schwartz). While children cannot simply learn to read by listening, they can improve their reading scores when listening to an adult read aloud. When children listen to a parent or teacher read aloud, they may start discussions or ask questions about specific words, phrases, or plot points in the story. Students will be able to directly counsel with an educated adult who can explain complex sounds, terms, and literary devices to them. As children discuss these concepts, words, and literary ideas with an adult, they will recognize those patterns and words in other texts and be better able to comprehend them (Schwartz). Reading aloud to children does not require any particular time, place, or book. Studies show that the simple association between parent-child interaction and reading fosters feelings of fondness and love for reading among children (Schwartz). Teachers can encourage parents to read out loud or with their children and can set apart class time to read entertaining books or stories aloud to their entire class. This will prove to be an engaging, relaxing activity for students that promotes creativity, literary comprehension, and academic growth. Set goals with students Learning to read is a life-long, complicated process. To encourage students along their literary journey and promote extended personal growth, teachers should converse with students and help them set practical goals for literary improvement and reading ability. While teachers can provide direction and help students phrase their goals, the central objective should, eventually, be determined by the student (Wabisabi). Some easy examples of potential goals include the following: <ul><li>Get 100% on a spelling test</li><li>Learn the definitions of five new words</li><li>Individually read a short novel before the end of the school year</li><li>Memorize the alphabet</li><li>Read out-loud in class</li></ul>Helpful goals are personal and should be between student, parent, and teacher. It is proven that “[Students] are likely to focus more of their attention on the parts of the text that are most closely tied to their reading goals,” so students will pay more attention to the assigned texts and will be able to practice, quickly apply, and expand upon their literary skills in an organized manner (Wabisabi). As teachers helpfully participate in proven techniques and encourage students to read, assign spelling/vocabulary tests, encourage students to read with a partner, read aloud, and set goals with their pupils, they will see substantial academic improvement and growth in their classes. This organized course of action will help teachers be confident in their students as they quickly progress toward a brighter future.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A career in special education can be both challenging and rewarding. Teachers involved in special education are tasked with instructing dynamic, unique children that struggle with disabilities, disorders, or syndromes. These students learn in different ways and at different paces from their peers and require additional attention, compassion, and interaction with reliable, caring teachers.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0sCsTRUFIE/Xp4LwGoSa2I/AAAAAAAAAKA/tYXYOafm5EAApTMlLcekvoF6b1RONVt0ACEwYBhgLKsoDAL1OcqyOYHcKuy9FVAPIFUsQ6-cw3gZSbCY046Vd6tQRTYNnHgffb3FBoGMA8IrQjskBJtzAnI2qHCuiXBrneBhqsrCRQs_QW6TYrMHlG1T9PH2nOsGN1ZCOSfKEFwMte6l7aodJrw9OLrvDm7VGZzpdIjxCwP4Qt38FfybpSjgTXUMi3Ao-fcad-3aihBeKaKYG8Wu7BbDi2V1WTnOhPVPULzVTDJjhygi1IRA64VVNerAERdjvCrebrfoOG6tu4jTLiSqt1uE8eNOF46qk9dvGTlSpGzcGHykbbaDWKAUcB9X0P2kuJWXHjKaXMFMfjBhXbogN4BJEzxhHlL3LJhglkTd4lVdM47L1f_FYwsTTNFFh9yEr1Hw2ANqbbfaq7PINbHP0ibDAVmYMFB-IPdXJ9GZpC36w4KTuhRLNtyjJb4PNDJMCfNWG8phaAwLwV2GFbH-1Me8hbT6FyjkxyhK46PWCc1sGaxqB2jTWbgPB1_hlhYsGwLIkMeEt94pS4ZsNDxizf-r6uH5KVrfOoSC3EgWyIOMPzEfCGHxBJUkAjUDRGiaiSqDz0i_sOFD6ZOjhvafGg-HYDxgFaUY_QcYuxmHNE3b2sZgwgZ349AU/s1600/AdobeStock_19745869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E0sCsTRUFIE/Xp4LwGoSa2I/AAAAAAAAAKA/tYXYOafm5EAApTMlLcekvoF6b1RONVt0ACEwYBhgLKsoDAL1OcqyOYHcKuy9FVAPIFUsQ6-cw3gZSbCY046Vd6tQRTYNnHgffb3FBoGMA8IrQjskBJtzAnI2qHCuiXBrneBhqsrCRQs_QW6TYrMHlG1T9PH2nOsGN1ZCOSfKEFwMte6l7aodJrw9OLrvDm7VGZzpdIjxCwP4Qt38FfybpSjgTXUMi3Ao-fcad-3aihBeKaKYG8Wu7BbDi2V1WTnOhPVPULzVTDJjhygi1IRA64VVNerAERdjvCrebrfoOG6tu4jTLiSqt1uE8eNOF46qk9dvGTlSpGzcGHykbbaDWKAUcB9X0P2kuJWXHjKaXMFMfjBhXbogN4BJEzxhHlL3LJhglkTd4lVdM47L1f_FYwsTTNFFh9yEr1Hw2ANqbbfaq7PINbHP0ibDAVmYMFB-IPdXJ9GZpC36w4KTuhRLNtyjJb4PNDJMCfNWG8phaAwLwV2GFbH-1Me8hbT6FyjkxyhK46PWCc1sGaxqB2jTWbgPB1_hlhYsGwLIkMeEt94pS4ZsNDxizf-r6uH5KVrfOoSC3EgWyIOMPzEfCGHxBJUkAjUDRGiaiSqDz0i_sOFD6ZOjhvafGg-HYDxgFaUY_QcYuxmHNE3b2sZgwgZ349AU/s640/AdobeStock_19745869.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div> </div>Helping special education students learn and develop is not always easy. It can be an overwhelming and delicate situation for many teachers. However, interaction with and teaching special education students, when approached correctly, can be immensely rewarding. By following the helpful suggestions below, teachers will find greater joy in their special education classrooms and better connect with their students. <div>Be flexible. Those who teach special education students will face a variety of different, unique challenges every day. To combat outbursts, meltdowns, or high-strung emotions from their students, teachers need to be flexible. They should be able to recognize the causes of distress in their students and be willing to adapt their lessons or schedule to address the needs of their pupils. Teachers should consider planning soothing activities that help students cope with their emotions in the event of a disruption (Banks) and should be willing to accept that interruptions or delays are inevitable and okay. Be calm. Because it can be difficult to communicate with, soothe, or connect with students with special needs, teachers must learn how to control their own tempers and stay calm during stressful situations. Maintaining an even temper will prevent teachers from yelling at their students, causing added stress. Staying calm, even when a student is misbehaving or throwing a tantrum, will help diffuse the situation. If students are upset and disruptive, anger from the teacher will make the situation worse. However, when teachers make an effort to be calm and patient with their struggling or disruptive students, they will create a safe, healthy learning environment and maintain order in their classrooms (Saint). Be compassionate. Often considered the most important characteristic for any teacher, it is helpful when educators have a love for their job and are compassionate with their students (Saint). Teachers that do not have a love for helping special education children will struggle. However,teachers that enjoy helping these unique students grow and understand academic and social concepts will achieve greater satisfaction from their job and see greater success with their students. When students are confused, upset, or frustrated, it is a compassionate response from their teacher that will soothe them and encourage them to try again (Saint).</div><div>Communicate with students’ parents. According to Jill Eulberg, “developing positive relationships with...students’ parents will make [teachers’] [jobs] easier” . Parents know their childrenand their practical needsbetter than anyone else. When teachers reach out to students’ parents, it helps teachers identify the individual needs of each student. Teachers will also be able to counsel with students’ parents concerning appropriate responses to outbursts, misbehavior, and classroom incidents. As teachers regularly contact parents to let them know about students’ progression, needs, and activities, parents will trust educators, and teachers will create positive, constructive relationships that directly benefit their students. Maintain a positive attitude. In any profession, jobs or daily tasks can be difficult to accomplish when one has a negative attitude. Because teachers work closely with challenging students in restricted situations and sometimes have minimal resources, it is easy to become discouraged and upset. However, effective teachers, special education and otherwise, seek to maintain a positive attitude. Having a positive attitude not only helps the instructor give better lessons, positive perspectives also help encourage students who are struggling or frustrated. To maintain a positive attitude, teachers should focus on the successes in their classroom, including student behavioral improvements, academic achievements, and social successes (Banks). Teachers should not let outside factors negatively affect their school day or the way they treat their students. Remember people can only complete their tasks or responsibilities when they are healthy, physically and mentally. While special education teachers are tasked with taking care of their students throughout the workday, instructors must take care of themselves as well. Teachers should remember to get appropriate amounts of sleep, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy, balanced diet. When teachers are healthy, they are happy; when teachers are happy, so are their students. Develop a routine. Routines are particularly important for special education students. Adherence to an easy routine mitigates anxiety, confusion, and stress. Having a routine also calms students and makes tantrums and outbursts less likely. Teachers should remind their special education students of the routine regularly. Frequent reminders, announcements, and encouragement about the routine will create a positive association with the schedule. Teachers should send practical information concerning the daily routine to parents so that they are aware of the schedule and can encourage their children at home. As teachers collaborate with parents to raise frequent awareness about the schedule, students will feel a greater sense of security in their set routine and will be better equipped to learn in a structured, organized environment. As special education teachers focus on adaptability, maintain calm, offer compassionate instruction, communicate with students’ parents, focus on positivity, and stick to an organized routine, they will see proven, immeasurable classroom success. Their students will feel safe and secure and more inclined to learn in a conducive environment. As teachers implement these and other proven teaching techniques in their special education classrooms, they will make a positive difference in their communities and schools and in the lives of their students. <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Resources:</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Saint Joseph’s University, <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">“Top 10 Traits of a Special Education Teacher,”</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://online.sju.edu/graduate/masters-special-education/resources/articles/top-10-traits-of-a-special-education-teacher" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">https://online.sju.edu/graduate/masters-special-education/resources/articles/top-10-traits-of-a-special-education-teacher</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">.&nbsp;</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Banks, Karla. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Medium, McGraw-Hill, <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">“Tips and Tricks From a Special Education Teacher,”&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://medium.com/inspired-ideas-prek-12/tips-and-tricks-from-a-special-education-teacher-28450f145e55" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">https://medium.com/inspired-ideas-prek-12/tips-and-tricks-from-a-special-education-teacher-28450f145e55</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">September 28, 2016.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Eulberg, Jill. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hey, Teach! Western Governors’ University, <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">“6 Tips for a First-Year Special</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Education Teacher <a href="https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/6-tips-first-year-special-education-teacher1807.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/6-tips-first-year</a></div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/6-tips-first-year-special-education-teacher1807.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">-special-education-teacher1807.html</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">.&nbsp;</div></div>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDue2Rz7mik/XjtcOOfUqXI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/Kn8Sixr1DossEPPEOF-V-ppJXEQNTcHFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_292608623.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1600" height="386" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDue2Rz7mik/XjtcOOfUqXI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/Kn8Sixr1DossEPPEOF-V-ppJXEQNTcHFQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_292608623.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div> Learning to read is an essential part of any child’s education. Teachers, however, can find it challenging to teach large groups of students at once. Because every child learns information differently, it can be challenging to instruct and encourage young students to read. Learning centers are one of the many helpful methods teachers can implement and see growth as they teach children to read. <div>What are Learning Centers? Learning centers are implemented in classroom settings. They are designed to help students understand words, reading, and writing as they participate in various activities. Learning centers are characterized by several activity stations that are placed around a classroom. Students are separated into small groups of two or three. Each group begins at a different station. The students then have a certain amount of time to complete the station’s activity before they rotate to another project. For example, a teacher may set up five different activities around the classroom, each involving reading, writing, or practicing a literary skill. Students will be separated into five groups; one group for each station. Students will then spend time at each station and move on to the next activity at the direction of the instructor. For students under the age of 8, each station should take no more than 15 minutes. Older students can spend up to 20 minutes at each station (Alison). Limiting the amount of time per activity helps students focus and prevents them from getting tired, bored, or overworked. What Activities Should Be Included In Learning Centers? Learning centers should include a variety of activities that prove fun and educational. Because learning centers provide an opportunity for the whole class to participate, it is valuable when the teacher includes a variety of activities that will be engaging to every student. The following activity suggestions may prove helpful to teachers as they organize quick learning centers and encourage their students to read: Independent Study Independent study is helpful for students learning to read. Reading independently allows growth, encourages students to work through complicated words, sounds, or passages, and strengthens their skills as they rely on their knowledge and experience. Independent study can be one of the stations in a learning center. Teachers can direct the group of children to a table or group of chairs where the students can sit next to each other but read on their own. Students can study from their own books, or the teacher can provide reading materials at the station. Do not force students to take notes or write about what they are reading in this station. While note-taking is an excellent habit to develop, this station’s purpose is to encourage students to read, not analyze text. Group Study Just like independent study, reading with a group is practical in a learning center. Reading with a group helps increase the students’ comprehension of the text’s meaning. Students will gain confidence in their reading abilities as they read level-appropriate passages and stories out loud. As students learn in a group, they should discuss their feelings and ideas concerning the text and help each other strengthen their reading abilities. There are many ways to implement vocal reading in an activity station. The assigned group of students should gather at a desk or in chairs. They can all read from an individual copy of the text or can share books with their classmates as they read. Here are several ways in which students can practice reading out loud with a group at an activity station: <ul><li>Students can read with different emotions or voices (Barrett). Teachers can label popsicle sticks or slips of paper with emotions such as “silly,” “sad,” “happy,” “angry,” or with descriptive words such as “loud,” “soft,” or “gentle.” Students can pull a slip of paper or popsicle stick out of a bowl or bucket and read with the emotion indicated on the stick or paper (Barrett).</li><li>Students can find a partner and alternate reading paragraphs from a magazine, picture book, or story (Florida!).</li><li>Assigned groups can come together as a book club and discuss what they have read from their assigned book. They can recite passages of the text together, discuss their favorite parts, and have discussions about what they have learned (Florida!).</li><li>Students read a poem, story, or article as a group. Together, they discuss and write down ideas about the text’s meaning and analyze its components.</li></ul>Study with the Arts Including opportunities for arts during stations can help students have fun, be creative, and develop a deeper understanding of what they read. Using dramatic arts such as dancing, drawing, painting, or singing can help students work off extra energy, work as a group, and learn many skills. Teachers should assign students to an open area or a station with tables and chairs, so students have room to read and create their art. Some practical activities include the following: The assigned group of students should arrive at their station and read a short story, fairytale, or paragraph. They should then summarize the story with a short play or puppet show (Alison). Students read a short story, magazine article, or fairytale. They then draw their favorite scene from the account using crayons, pencils, paint, and paper. Students read a story about singing or music. Then they create a song or sing a song that they all know. The teacher prints out the words to a familiar song. The children read the text together, sing the song, and make a dance to accompany their singing. Students write their own poem, story, or picture book. The aforementioned ideas have been proven as effective, successful, organized learning centers. As students read independently, study in groups, and incorporate the arts into their education, they will learn to read and write fluently. Teachers should closely monitor the learning center activities to ensure that their students do not get distracted or fail to complete their tasks. Teachers will find it rewarding to watch their students teach themselves, learn from one another, and apply what they learn. When facilitated correctly, learning centers with organized stations are proven to increase academic improvement in the classroom.</div><div> </div>Sources Alison. Learning at the Primary Pond, “Literacy Centers That Work,”&nbsp;<a href="https://learningattheprimarypond.com/centers/learning-at-the-primary-pond-literacy-centers-kindergarten-first-second-grade/">https://learningattheprimarypond.com/centers/learning-at-the-primary-pond-literacy-centers-kindergarten-first-second-grade/</a>. September 9, 2017. Florida!, Just Read. Reading Rockets, “Literacy Centers,”&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.readingrockets.org/article/literacy-centers">https://www.readingrockets.org/article/literacy-centers</a>. Barrett, Lindsay. We Are Teachers, “40 Ideas for K-2 Literacy Centers,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weareteachers.com/literacy-centers-ideas/">https://www.weareteachers.com/literacy-centers-ideas/</a>. September 25, 2019.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Students may consider school boring, tiring, frustrating, or uninteresting. Teachers might observe that students are sleeping during class, don’t participate in discussions, don’t take notes, and refuse to ask questions or receive help from an educator or instructor. These are signs that students are not engaged in the coursework and have little desire to take control of or participate in their learning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ShPOSO8DTuc/XrBuw-Q2XhI/AAAAAAAAAKs/211mdclcuYU8BNk07JKyHW90ysHg2w2zQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_304488203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ShPOSO8DTuc/XrBuw-Q2XhI/AAAAAAAAAKs/211mdclcuYU8BNk07JKyHW90ysHg2w2zQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_304488203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> How does a classroom with engaged students look? In classrooms where students are engaged, most children will be paying attention to the instructor. They will likely be taking notes. Students will raise their hands to contribute to a discussion or ask questions about the course material, lesson, or activity. Students will be excited to learn and to help their peers understand. This kind of helpful learning environment is more conducive to student growth and will help pupils see greater academic success. Teachers can promote engaged learning and increase student academic growth environment by doing the following: <div> Tell students why the lesson is important. Children and students are inquisitive. They are curious about what things are and why they matter. Students are more likely to pay attention if teachers start the lesson with an explanation about why they are learning this specific concept. There are many reasons why academic learning is important. Students will use mathematics in their careers, when paying taxes, and when planning a budget. Students will use science when playing outside, stargazing, or getting shots at a doctor’s office. Students will use language to write texts and letters, apply for jobs, read books, and make friends. Students will use history as they seek to understand politics, religion, their communities, and their families. Teachers should explain how a concept or principle is related to the students, when they will use it, and why it is important. Teachers can also share helpful personal stories or make up scenarios concerning an academic principle. Teachers can share examples of using math to plan enough food for a party or science to explain why plants grow. When teachers use colorful imagery and relevant, engaging scenarios that apply to the lives of their students, students will be more likely to listen and show interest in the lesson, asking questions and remembering key information that will aid in academic growth (Himmelsbach). Mix up teaching strategies. Children and students have limited attention spans. Most children can sit still and listen for only a few minutes before getting bored. While older students can pay attention to the lesson for a longer amount of time, the principle still applies; students quickly lose interest when forced to observe or participate in an uninteresting lesson, activity, or discussion. When teachers incorporate a variety of practical activities and teaching strategies in their lessons , students are more likely to pay attention. As instructors draw their attention from one activity to a discussion to a lecture and back to another activity, students will easily be excited about the various learning opportunities and will have fun participating in hands-on learning (McGraw). Teachers can use the following teaching strategies to encourage student engagement: <ul><li>Play an educational video.</li><li>Give a short quiz.</li><li>Assign group projects.</li><li>Have students work in pairs.</li><li>Give a brief, clear lecture.</li><li>Allow students to ask questions.</li><li>Do an in-class demonstration or experiment.</li><li>Give students individual study time.</li><li>Have students complete an online learning assessment or activity.</li><li>Conduct a lesson outside.</li></ul>Include chances to re-focus throughout the day. To students, the school day can feel especially long, tiring, and strenuous. Teachers should provide students with a chance to re-focus and get back on track throughout the day. Teachers will notice that students need a break or need to re-focus when students are quiet, avoid eye contact, are distracted, or are not working on their assigned material (Fulton). As teachers notice these indicators and respond appropriately, students will be able to regain their focus and find success in their classes. When students arrive at school in the morning, they may be tired, unmotivated, and sleepy. Teachers should start the school day with an engaging, motivating activity that will help students focus from the moment they enter school. Activities can include: <ul><li>Singing a song</li><li>Doing a short exercise routine</li><li>Taking a pop quiz</li><li>Responding to a writing prompt</li><li>Answering a question of the day</li></ul> Participation in these activities will help students wake up, get their blood flowing, and will help them get into an academic mindset that will set an easy course for the rest of the school day. Teachers may findthroughout the daythat students get tired or bored or need to re-focus. In these situations, teachers can do the following: <ul><li>Give students a five-minute break to use the restroom and get a drink of water.</li><li>Administer a practical comprehensive quiz.</li><li>Have students do a short exercise (jumping jacks, sit-ups, etc.) to help them stay awake.</li><li>Meditate or focus on organized mindfulness before a test.</li></ul>Students will appreciate the time to wake themselves up, quickly clear their heads, and re-focus. While keeping students focused can be difficult, teachers can use various techniques to keep students focused and encourage participation. These techniques include, but are not limited to, explaining the importance of the concept, varying teaching strategies, and offering students opportunities to re-focus throughout the school day. By following these proven techniques and by diligently and patiently striving to help students focus, teachers will quickly achieve greater satisfaction and organization and see greater student engagement and academic growth. <div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">Resources:</div> <div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">Himmelsbach, Vawn. Top Hat, “19 Student Engagement Strategies to Start with in Your Course,”&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"> <a href="https://tophat.com/blog/student-engagement-strategies/" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://tophat.com/blog/student-engagement-strategies/</a>. May 17, 2019.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">McGraw-Hill Higher Education, “5 Key Tips for More Student Engagement,”<a href="https://www.mheducation.com/highered/insights-ideas/5-key-tips-for-more-student-engagement.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.m</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; text-indent: 36pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.mheducation.com/highered/insights-ideas/5-key-tips-for-more-student-engagement.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;">heducation.com/highered/insights-ideas/5-key-tips-for-more-student-engagement.html</a>.&nbsp;</div> <div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fulton, Jenny. ClassCraft, “What does student engagement look like?”<a href="https://www.classcraft.com/blog/features/evidence-of-student-engagement/" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.classcraft</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-decoration-line: none; text-indent: 36pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.classcraft.com/blog/features/evidence-of-student-engagement/" style="text-decoration-line: none;">.com/blog/features/evidence-of-student-engagement/</a>. April 5, 2019.</div></div>

Amidst the crisis the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic, teachers and students are among those facing the brunt of the consequences of quarantine. Graduations have been canceled, classes are being taught online, and overwhelmed parents are desperately trying to help their children continue their education away from school. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FllgTpNZqNs/XrB7Jb7VxpI/AAAAAAAAALc/VTLRVzcgvsEm0FRZO2URe5QSmkHZAw_qwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_334210688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FllgTpNZqNs/XrB7Jb7VxpI/AAAAAAAAALc/VTLRVzcgvsEm0FRZO2URe5QSmkHZAw_qwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_334210688.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> As teachers continue to instruct their students through online platforms, it can be difficult to arrange and carry out meaningful lessons. Many students are procrastinating with assignment completion, failing to turn in assignments, or are completely giving up on finishing their education this school year. This can be frustrating for parents, students, and teachers who want the best for their classes. To combat the social-distancing blues and to help increase student growth for the continuation of the school year, here are 10 helpful ways teachers can create meaningful lessons from a distance. #1: Keep it simple. Teachers are likely accustomed to giving deep lectures, presentations, and complex assignments in their classrooms. However, with the abrupt transition to online learning, it is difficult for students to understand new or complex material while learning how to navigate a new online learning system. When teachers give students new or complicated material, it creates added stress for students and can be frustrating to parents as they attempt to help their children learn unfamiliar material. To combat this, teachers should strive to keep their lessons simple. Do not give complicated or extensive assignments when teaching new material. Keep lessons short, to the point, and informational. As Flower Darby states in her article for The Chronicle of Higher Education, teachers should “strive for a course organization that is clear, methodical, and intuitive”. Do not use complicated modules, lesson formats, or online programs when teaching students; use easy-to-navigate, simple programs that do not require excessive effort or cause confusion. #2: Set goals with students. People tend to learn best when they have a specific goal or purpose in mind. When students do not have a specific goal they are working towards, they become disinterested and distracted and will not complete or turn in their assignments. Teachers should “establish a clear set of learning goals” to motivate their students (TFA). To help students focus and have meaningful lessons, teachers can converse with students and set class or individual goals. These goals should be helpful and focus on academic growth, class connectivity during separation, and positivity. Examples of easy goals can include encouraging each student to: <ul><li>Turn in all assignments on time.</li><li>Learn something new each day.</li><li>Practice or employ a certain skill they learned in class.</li></ul>#3: Use a variety of sources. Now that students are using the internet to learn and continue their education, there are a multitude of practical resources available to teachers to make learning fun, exciting, and engaging. However, excessive use of technology and exposure to screens can cause “screen fatigue,” which may lead to exhaustion, disengagement, and headaches. Teachers should include a variety of activities, on and off-line, that will help students grow and appeal to all learning types. <div>Such examples include: <ul><li>Assign educational or instructional videos or movies for students to watch.</li><li>Assign students to create a presentation using online programs.</li><li>Assign students to create a drawing, painting, or piece of artwork that they can photograph and submit.</li><li>Assign students to spend time observing plant or animal life, stars, or other aspects of nature as part of a science class (Allain).</li><li>Provide instructions for students to complete simple science experiments or explorative tasks at home (Allain).</li><li>Demonstrate a simple science experiment. Challenge students to record themselves replicating and explaining the science experiment.</li><li>Assign students to read.</li></ul>#4: Communicate with students and parents. Communication with students during this time is paramount. Communicating with students will help increase class unity, encourage classroom participation, and will remind students about upcoming assignments, deadlines, or tests. Communication with parents will keep them updated and informed about their children’s education and will increase the likelihood of parental involvement and encouragement at home. Teachers can easily create class group chats through Remind or other school-appropriate apps, send emails, hold online conferences, or send out newsletters to keep parents and students informed. #5: Do not expect perfection. At this time, teachers should not expect perfection. Students who previously did well in school may flounder under the added pressure of learning without a teacher present; many teachers will notice that student results and productivity is substandard and not up to par. “Remember, this is a challenge for everyone: teachers, families, and students,” and it is not practical to require perfection from educators, students, or families while they are under stress (TFA). Teachers should not be overly demanding of themselves or their students; rather, work with what students and teachers themselves are accomplishing to make small amounts of progress daily. #6: Understand why students are struggling. It is relatively easy for teachers to quickly notice when their students are bored, struggling, or disinterested in a lesson at school. With an increase in online learning, however, it has proven to be more difficult for teachers to identify where their lessons are flawed because they do not have immediate student feedback. By “anticipating their isolation and planning for it,” teachers will be able to create lessons that are actually engaging (Darby). As teachers take an outside perspective and consider class material from a student’s point of view, they will be able to strip away the unnecessary and create a lesson that is meaningful, helpful, and concise. #7: Provide students with examples. Because students cannot be with their teachers during online learning, they will likely have questions. Teachers can address these questions as they provide students with examples, included in lesson modules, in emails, or through conference calls. Providing students with organized examples will create a scenario for application in pupils’ minds and will help them grasp what is being taught.&nbsp;</div><div> </div><div>Consider doing the following to show classes examples of new material: <ul><li>Link existing videos that elaborate on the instructional topic (Darby).</li><li>Record short guest lectures or presentations (Darby).</li><li>Encourage students to leave comments on how they accomplished a task. This will help their peers who are struggling (Darby).</li></ul>#8: Be kind. Showing compassion for students and exhibiting kindness will promote a healthy, engaging learning environment. Teachers should compliment students on the work they accomplish, phrase critiques or advice kindly, and refrain from scolding or using condescending language toward their students. Students, teachers, and families are all affected by the consequences and anxiety surrounding coronavirus; make school a safe learning environment that promotes growth and positivity (Darby). Kindness is a quick, easy, and proven way to have rewarding results in classrooms and through online learning. #9: Plan lessons with a purpose. Online lessons should not be given to fill time or as “busywork.” Teachers should only assign content that is essential for understanding or that will help students develop critical skills. When assigning tasks, teachers should introduce schoolwork by explaining its purpose to the students. Students should not wonder why they are completing an assignment or be assigned material that has no educational value. #10: Hold regular online meetings with students. Organizing regular online meetings with students will maintain friendly relationships between students and teachers. Because students have been isolated from one another, seeing their peers and trusted teachers through FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, or other video conferencing platforms will promote positivity, encourage class discussion, and make participation exciting. Additionally, teachers will be able to directly communicate with students about their concerns and questions and get feedback from students about assignments and lessons (Allain). As teachers implement these techniques, they will see greater participation, improvement, and satisfaction from an online schooling experience. For more information about teaching tips or educational advice, visit the EdGuru Edge blog at <a href="https://blog.edguru.co/">https://blog.edguru.co/</a>.</div>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The abrupt transition from in-school classes to online learning from home has been difficult for millions of students around the world. With school closures due to COVID-19, parents are tasked with being the driving force behind student education. Teachers are relying on parents to support students during distance learning, but it is not an easy task.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJEWuvbW6UE/XrB1R0tpktI/AAAAAAAAALE/PG2ANnGASc8U8BqttSHGRdoLF2aL2XHKACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_158287762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1222" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJEWuvbW6UE/XrB1R0tpktI/AAAAAAAAALE/PG2ANnGASc8U8BqttSHGRdoLF2aL2XHKACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_158287762.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> Just as millions of students are frustrated by online schooling, millions of parents are overwhelmed by the task of encouraging their children and guiding them through the remainder of the school year. However, as parents find ways to support at-home learning by implementing the following techniques, they will be able to create an enriching learning environment from home and promote the academic success of their children. Create a Study Space Schools are designed to promote learning and help children focus. Every resource, picture, display, and color used in a classroom is designed to help students perform academically and stay on track. Distractions such as cell phones and video games are prohibited. This is not the case at home. At home, students are faced with innumerable distractions; noisy siblings, the temptation of video games or cell phones, televisions, easy access to snacks, or the responsibility of household chores. Amid so many possible distractions, one of the most important steps parents can take to help their children learn is to create a space where their children can study, free from distractions. Parents should have a designated space for their children to complete schoolwork. This can be at a table, kitchen counter, desk, etc. Students should not be allowed to access their phones, online games, or other electronic distractions while they are completing schoolwork (Fabiano). A student’s study space should be relatively quiet and comfortable and away from televisions (Fabiano). When parents create a secure, designated space where students can study, attend conferences, or complete homework, students will start to create better habits and develop a healthy educational routine. Create a Schedule Children learn best when they have a schedule or repeated routine. Students who do not have a structured learning schedule will be easily distracted, fail to complete assignments, and will not adapt well to online learning. When students have an easy-to-follow, recognizable schedule that remains relatively constant, they will have a better sense of security and normality and be better equipped to complete tasks, which will lead to academic growth. Parents should create a practical schedule for their children. In their schedule, they can include the following information: <ul><li>What time to wake up in the morning</li><li>What time to shower, get dressed, etc.</li><li>What time to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner</li><li>Designated hours for studying and completing schoolwork</li><li>Designated time for recess, breaks, and time spent outside</li><li>Designated time complete specific household chores</li><li>What time to go to bed</li></ul>While maintaining a schedule is important, parents should not become discouraged if their children have a hard time initially adhering to a routine. Parents should be flexible, but encourage their children to adhere to an easy routine to promote productivity and increase the sense of normality at home (Smith). Take Breaks Children are notorious for their short attention spans. Students enjoy recess and breaks periodically throughout the day at school. In the same way, parents should allow children several opportunities to take a break from school assignments at home. Recess and breaks should not exceed 30 minutes and can be used after completion of a subject or 1-2 hours of schoolwork. Here are several ideas for short recess breaks away from screens at home (Children): <ul><li>Prepare and eat a healthy snack.</li><li>Exercise.</li><li>Spend time outside.</li><li>Complete chores.</li><li>Go for a walk.</li><li>Call a friend.</li><li>Play a board game.</li><li>Read a book.</li><li>Play with toys.</li><li>Be Patient</li></ul>The transition from in-school to at-home learning has not been easy for teachers, parents, and students. In response to the added stress and unfamiliarity of online schooling, children may be more prone to impractical outbursts, tears, or frustration. Parents, too, are experiencing overwhelming frustration as they attempt to encourage their children and help them learn. Students will not be able to learn in an environment that is full of anger, frustration, or anxiety. Despite outbursts, meltdowns, and tantrums, parents should practice patience when helping their children. As parents use calm voices, try proven soothing techniques, and practice effective communication with their children, they will help educate their children and will see greater academic success and organization in their children’s lives. As parents create a conducive learning environment for their students, create and implement an organized routine, allow their children to take quick and periodic breaks from schoolwork, and practice patience with their students and themselves, they will experience greater joy in helping their children learn. Children and teachers both will immensely benefit from the proven sacrifice and effort of parents that are helping their children learn from home.<div> </div><div> </div><div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Resources:</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fabiano, Jennifer. Ladders, “9 tips for parents navigating online learning with their children due</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> to Coronavirus,” <a href="https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/tips-for-parents-online-learning-with-children" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/tips-for-parents-online-</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/tips-for-parents-online-learning-with-children" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning-with-children</a>. March 16, 2020.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smith, Jennifer. Teach Thought, “10 Tips for Parents New to Online Homeschooling,”</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.teachthought.com/learning/10-tips-for-parents-new-to-online-homeschooling/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.teachthought.com/learning/10-tips-for-parents-new-to-online-homeschooling/</a>. July 26, 2018.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Children and Screens. MetroParent, “10 Tips for Digital At-Home Learning During COVID-19,”</div><a href="https://www.metroparent.com/daily/education/homeschooling/tips-for-digital-at-home-learning/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.metroparent.com/daily/education/homeschooling/tips-for-digital-at-home-learning/</a>. March 18, 2020.</div>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Organizing and maintaining a classroom can be challenging and complicated. Each year, teachers are tasked with teaching a new group of students with diverse backgrounds and varying personalities. It can be difficult to adapt classroom management techniques and solutions when circumstances, classes, and teaching situations often change. Teachers, both new and experienced, may feel overwhelmed.</div> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vodv872_SHw/Xp4P_9mi5rI/AAAAAAAAAKI/DpJRr5q7Mu41v2GQsSw7CiWwWcy-LnEjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_106453619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vodv872_SHw/Xp4P_9mi5rI/AAAAAAAAAKI/DpJRr5q7Mu41v2GQsSw7CiWwWcy-LnEjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_106453619.jpg" width="640" /></a> When teachers and educators are overwhelmed or stressed with the prospect of classroom management, they often make decisions and implement policies that are harmful to academic growth, their students, and themselves. Below are listed the top five most common classroom management mistakes. As teachers seek to avoid these errors in classroom management, they will feel more at ease with their students, their classes will be more effective, and they will be able to develop into effective educational professionals. Jumping to Conclusions In every aspect of life, it is easy to jump to conclusions. In school, there will be situations where students argue, are disruptive, or cause issues with other students in their class. Teachers may easily get upset, assume that a certain student is to blame for the disruption, and - punish that student , despite the student’s claim that it wasn’t their fault. While it is easy to quickly conclude that a certain individual is at fault, teachers should never administer punishment or send their students to office administration unless they are certain that the student in question instigated the offense (Holden). When teachers wrongly accuse their students of committing an offense, it creates tension between the teacher and student, disrupts friendly relationships, and causes embarrassment for the accused student. The accused students also undergo unnecessary punishment that wasn’t intended for them, causing feelings of insecurity and doubt and a negative relationship with school and learning. When teachers wait to administer rebuke or discipline until they can definitively recognize who caused the disruption, the student will learn from their mistakes, take responsibility for their actions, and be less likely to commit the offense again in the future. <div>Lack of Organization Teaching requires tactical organization in creating a functional, effective layout and a classroom management plan for each classroom. Teachers, when preparing for their daily lessons, may forget to organize the classroom layout and intended plan of management. When teachers do not label or designate appropriate places for school supplies, desks, etc., students will be confused, ask superfluous questions about the location of needed materials, and waste precious class time looking for materials they need to learn and complete their coursework (Cox). Additionally, when teachers do not have a designated plan to manage their classrooms and promote good behavior, their students will disregard the rules, lose academic growth, and be less receptive to teacher instruction. Ultimately, a lack of organization results in wasted time, non-receptive students, and general chaos in the classroom. To avoid this mistake, teachers should spend practical time determining the layout of their classrooms. They should add labels to drawers, cupboards, or stations that hold paper, pencils, pencil sharpeners, crayons, or other school supplies so it is easy to find the necessary class supplies (Cox). Additionally, teachers should create and communicate to stduents aclassroom management plan and have a system for appropriately disciplining students before a situation arises. Doing so will contribute to a better learning environment and help students effectively learn. Failure to Communicate Expectations When working with children or students of any age, it is important for teachers to clearly express their expectations to their pupils. When teachers fail to discuss their rules, classroom functions, and expectations during the first days of school, their students are more likely to disobey, make mistakes with heavy implications, and break or misuse classroom items (Barile). To avoid accidents, disruptions, or miscommunication, teachers should make sure their students clearly understand the rules and expectations from the first day of school. To effectively communicate their expectations and classroom rules, teachers can print a syllabus or disclosure that explains the rules of the classroom. Teachers can also include disciplinary measures that will be taken so that students are aware of the possible consequences of their misbehavior (Barile). Teachers should have their students show their parents the class disclosure, syllabus, or list of rules so that parents, students, and teachers are aware of and all agree on how education and discipline will be managed throughout the school year. Having Complex Rules Because of students’ ongoing cognitive development, they are less likely to remember long lists of complex rules or classroom expectations. Teachers often make the mistake of having too many rules or create a long list of classroom expectations that are overcomplicated or difficult to remember. This only leads to confusion and frustration and makes it difficult for students to learn when they are overburdened by extensive rules that they don’t understand. Teachers should focus on keeping their classroom rules practical and simple. It is best to select 3 to5 classroom rules on which to focus. Educators can print out these rules, put them on posters, post them in the classroom, and discuss them with their students. Class rules should be easy phrases such as: <ul><li>“Raise your hand to ask a question.”</li><li>“Be kind to your classmates.”</li><li>“Listen when the teacher is talking.”</li><li>“Use kind words.”</li><li>“Clean up when you make a mess.”</li><li>“Stay in your seat until recess.”</li><li>“Be quiet when someone else is talking.”</li></ul>As teachers implement these concise and easy-to-understand rules, students will quickly feel more at ease in their classrooms and will better understand and follow the classroom management plan. Not Forming Relationships with Students Educators often fail to develop relationships with their students. Teachers express little interest or concern in the lives of their students, do not compassionately discuss their grades or misbehavior, and do not seek to be friendly with their students or their students’ parents. Doing so creates dissonance in the classroom, causes tension, and makes it more difficult for students to learn effectively. Teachers should attempt to support their students, express concern about their lives, and caringly interact with them when discussing schoolwork or classroom behavior. As teachers express compassion and kindness with their students, they will encourage positive behavior and contribute to a safe learning environment. As teachers avoid jumping to conclusions and being disorganized, seek to communicate their expectations, establish simple and concise rules, and form positive relationships with their students, their students will achieve greater academic growth. Students will feel safe and comfortable in their learning environment and be motivated to succeed, contributing to positive change in their homes, schools, and communities. Resources: <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Holden, Shannon. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">edWeb.net, <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">“Common Classroom Management Mistakes and How to Avoid&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Them,<a href="https://home.edweb.net/common-classroom-management-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">https://home.edweb.net/common-classroom-management-mistakes-and-how-</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://home.edweb.net/common-classroom-management-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">to-avoid-them/</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">. June 29, 2018.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Cox, Janelle. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">TeachHub.com, <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">“10 Classroom Management Mistakes to Avoid,” <a href="https://www.teachhub.com/10-classroom-management-mistakes-avoid" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">https://www.te</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://www.teachhub.com/10-classroom-management-mistakes-avoid" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">achhub.com/10-classroom-management-mistakes-avoid</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">.&nbsp;</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Barile, Nancy. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hey, Teach!; Western Governors University, <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">“8 Classroom Management Mistakes&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Teachers Make at the Beginning of the Year,”<a href="https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/8-classroom-management-mistakes-teachers-make-beginning-year1808.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/8-</a></div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;"><a href="https://www.wgu.edu/heyteach/article/8-classroom-management-mistakes-teachers-make-beginning-year1808.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">classroom-management-mistakes-teachers-make-beginning-year1808.html</a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">.&nbsp;</div><div><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> </div></div>

While some families choose to homeschool their children, millions of children have had an at-home education flung at them as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether students are new to homeschooling or have been homeschooled their entire lives, it is helpful for parents to be involved in how their children learn and to create a healthy academic environment that promotes student growth.<div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m-m7O0Uk52U/XrBxOzGNexI/AAAAAAAAAK4/nRntOJjvPZ0x8AMWs13NsOrIztkb2o3CACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_333333493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m-m7O0Uk52U/XrBxOzGNexI/AAAAAAAAAK4/nRntOJjvPZ0x8AMWs13NsOrIztkb2o3CACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_333333493.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div> As parents incorporate the following tips into their homes, they will be better able to achieve the desired homeschool environment that is best for their children: #1: Create a designated school space. Having a designated learning area is crucial to keeping and maintaining order when homeschooling. This area is where all classes, homework, and learning activities should be done. Having a designated area for learning and academics will promote the maintenance of a routine. An ideal homeschool environment has access to natural lighting, has comfortable chairs, and has a table or countertop where students can write. Parents should make sure the room is well-lit to avoid drowsiness, isn’t too warm or too cool, and has plenty of fresh air to stimulate the brain and improve alertness and focus (Power). #2: Keep school supplies organized. It is helpful to students when learning supplies such as paper, textbooks, pens, pencils, whiteboards, whiteboard markers, colored pencils, and scissors are organized. When homeschool students fail to put away or organize their supplies, it becomes a vulnerable target for curious younger siblings or sabotaging pets or can become victim to the garbage can. Parents and students should work together to create a designated space for all supplies, books, etc. by using shelves, bins, drawers, and cupboards to neatly store academic supplies (Time). #3: Remove distractions. Young learners are easily distracted, so an ideal homeschooling environment eliminates potentially distracting images, sounds, and objects. Students should not have their phones with them while they are completing schoolwork, and should only have access to school-approved or academic websites. A growth-promoting homeschooling area should also be free from televisions and be ideally located away from loud sounds (Eusebio). #4: Play soft music. <div>Soft music is proven to stimulate brain productivity and increase academic performance (Eusebio). Students can be allowed to listen to calm or classical music that has no lyrics, isn’t too loud, and is not distracting. Listening to calm instrumental music will help students retain information and will contribute to a more pleasant studying experience. #5: Take Breaks. At formal schools, students are allowed recess; at home, students should be allowed periodic recess breaks as well (Power). Homeschool students can use this time to take a break from technology. Practical and easy recess activities include exercise, outside play, going on a walk, eating a snack, or reading a book. Parents should encourage their homeschooled students to participate in activities that are mobile and movement-based to avoid remaining sedentary. Parents should work with their children to determine an appropriate recess schedule that best suits their learning style and needs. #6: Go on outings. While maintaining a positive learning environment is beneficial for homeschooling, students should also spend time away from their study areas to attain different perspectives and get a break from learning in one room. One benefit of homeschooling is that children are not required to stay in the same classroom or building to attain an education. Where possible and when safe, parents can arrange for their homeschooled children to go on trips to museums, planetariums, aquariums, zoos, displays, or speeches. Doing so will help children gain more hands-on experience in their education and will provide a break from the monotony that can accompany learning from home (Power). #7: Clean often. Maintaining cleanliness is important in any home, contributing to increased feelings of comfort, safety, and productivity. This principle remains true for homeschool areas; children learn best and see the most academic growth when they are in a clean environment. Students can be responsible for practical, easy cleaning tasks around their homeschool space, guided by parents. These tasks can include: <ul><li>Washing off desks/tables</li><li>Sanitizing electronic devices</li><li>Organizing supply bins</li><li>Vacuuming floors</li><li>Washing windows</li><li>Picking up garbage</li><li>Putting their supplies away in the correct location</li></ul>#8: Practice good communication skills. Practicing communication skills is helpful in any learning situation; children should feel comfortable discussing questions and topics with their parents and teachers. Because homeschooled children spend so much time with their parents, children and parents should practice effective communication skills. Openly and respectfully communicating with each other about concerns, questions, problems, or other issues is proven to create a safe learning atmosphere and will help children feel comfortable in their learning environment. #9: Create a schedule. An important aspect of learning is having an organized schedule. Just as teachers at school implement learning and recess schedules, so should parents develop a learning and recess schedule for their homeschooled children. Schedules can include details about when to wake up, what schoolwork to complete at what time of day, and designated times for breaks, extracurricular activities, and meals. #10: Encourage kids to stay away from their bedrooms. Allowing students to complete schoolwork in their bedrooms decreases their likelihood of academic growth and increases their likelihood of snoozing or getting distracted. Parents should keep students’ bedrooms off-limits during school hours so students can focus (Eusebio). Doing so will be helpful in encouraging student focus and engagement. As parents implement these suggestions, they will see greater organization and productivity in their children’s academic lives. Homeschooling will become easier and more effective as parents and children consciously take these steps to create a better learning environment at home for school.</div></div>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some persons are born with a natural talent for teaching. They are comfortable in a classroom, are at ease when instructing others, and excel at connecting with students. They are passionate about education and are excited about learning and growth. However, not all teachers are created equal. Some teachers may naturally excel in areas where others could improve.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fcY4EiaRGIg/Xlm1Jh7p1pI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/R_BIE8ItAo8QaAboqug5QZ-0sGsy4-fngCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/AdobeStock_113316547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fcY4EiaRGIg/Xlm1Jh7p1pI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/R_BIE8ItAo8QaAboqug5QZ-0sGsy4-fngCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/AdobeStock_113316547.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div> </div><div>Regardless of whether teachers are born with natural talent or have gone through training and certification to become an educator, there are always helpful ways in which teachers can add to their abilities and improve their instruction methods. As teachers seek improvement, their efforts and raw teaching ability will combine to make them a better teacher for their growing students. Teachers looking for ways to improve their educational gifts and talents should consider the following actions: Be Prepared It does not matter how charming, enthusiastic, or educated a teacher is if they are not prepared to instruct their students. As leaders in schools and communities, teachers are responsible for being prepared for multiple scenarios each day. Teachers, foremost, should be prepared for each school day. This may require teachers to spend time outside of school preparing lessons, assignments, and tests. They should have all the necessary materials, papers, and resources for their lessons ready before class starts (Meador). When teachers are organized and prepared to teach their students, it creates a smoother learning experience in the classroom, adds to a teacher’s professionalism, and avoids disruptive pauses during class time. Teachers should also be prepared to protect their students. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes, and severe storms may require quick action on the teacher’s part to keep students safe. School threats or intrusions from violent outside sources are an increasing danger in the education world, and teachers should devise a plan of action and be prepared to defend their students. Teachers are also responsible for protecting their students from harassment, bullying, and other harmful behaviors that may occur within schools. While teachers are primarily responsible for academic preparation, they should also be mindful of their more sobering duties to be prepared in the event of an emergency. Explore continued professional development Continuous professional development is helpful for teachers of all talents and abilities. There is always some way in which a teacher can improve and better address the needs of their students. As teachers implement professional development in their careers, they will notice an improvement in classroom function and the growth of their students. Professional development can be defined as any activity or habit that helps teachers practically improve their teaching abilities. Here are several examples of easy professional development strategies that are proven to help teachers: <div><ul><li>Make a personal commitment. Teachers should set personal goals, separate from school administration. Making and setting small, achievable goals over long periods will help teachers effectively and fully adapt their classrooms to improvements (Davis).</li><li>Listen to student feedback. The best way for teachers to know if their instruction methods are effective is to ask the students directly. Students can anonymously submit comments about the classroom to the teacher that will candidly help teachers improve their instruction methods (Davis).</li><li>Study professional development resources. Teachers can reference professional development books and YouTube videos. Online courses, university classes, and regional conferences are also available for teachers seeking personal improvement in their careers (Davis).</li><li>Meet often with other teachers. Teachers in a particular school or area can regularly meet to discuss student needs and areas of improvement. Combined feedback will help generate a diverse group of possible resolutions and will help enrich the community or school as a whole (Davis).</li></ul> Have a positive attitude When teachers have a positive attitude, it has a beneficial impact on their students, their schools, and their lesson plans. Teachers with negative or deprecatory attitudes will deter students, gain an unfavorable reputation at school, and stand as a negative association with learning in the minds of the students. Teachers can maintain a positive atmosphere in their classes by focusing on the positive aspects of schooling and education. Teachers should avoid complaining to their students about personal affairs or school-associated conflicts. Teachers should learn to control their temper in stressful situations or in working with stressful students. Encouraging a positive learning atmosphere will easily keep students excited about education and engaged in their lessons rather than bored and unhappy with their teacher or class. Express compassion for the students Teachers will have the most significant impact on their students when they express genuine concern and love for the people they teach. Teachers should express appropriate interest in students’ personal lives and applaud their successes. Teachers should also express sympathy and solace when students are undergoing stressful situations or failures. Effective teachers can pose as compassionate counselors and practical mentors for struggling students. Most students will not remember the specific lessons their instructor teaches, but they will remember the way their teacher treated them. Good, helpful teachers are proven to leave a positive emotional and academic impression on their students (Meador). “Every student in America must have a talented teacher leading his or her classroom if he or she is to emerge from his or her K-12 experience college- and career- ready,” and teachers can invariably find ways to improve (Equitable). Teachers can combine their knack for teaching with these quick tips: organized preparation, helpful teacher development, a positive attitude, and a proven love for their students. As they do so, they will quickly see greater success in their classroom organization and develop a fulfilling, rewarding educational career. <div> </div><div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Resources:</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Meador, Derrick. Thought Co., “15 Exceptional Things Great Teachers Do Well,”&nbsp;</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/exceptional-things-that-great-teachers-do-3194337" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.thoughtco.com/exceptional-things-that-great-teachers-do-3194337</a>. July 14,</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">2018.</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Equitable Access Support Network, “Increasing Equitable Access to Excellent Educators: A&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Talent Management Guide for School Districts,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oese/oss/technicalassistance/easntalentmgtguideschldistricts.pdf" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oese/oss/technicalassistance/easntalentmgtguideschldistricts.pdf</a>. June 2017.</div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Davis, Vicki. Cool Cat Teacher Blog, “5 Simple Ways to Improve Teacher Professional&nbsp;</div>Development,” <a href="https://www.coolcatteacher.com/5-simple-ways-improve-teacher-professional-development/" style="text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.coolcatteacher.com/5-simple-ways-improve-teacher-professional-development/</a>. July 20, 2017.</div></div></div>

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