This is the official Twitter account for #OklaEd, thehashtag that brings OK educators together. #OklaEd is not political & promotes constructive dialogue.
Becki Maldonado - English Teacher - Emerson Alternative HS - OKCPS Art is still awesome as an adult, so of course we need art in schools! #oklaed Rocked it at Pinot’s Pallet today
Andre Daughty here... Favorite class in school? Business Tech, Band... AND LUNCH!!!
Learned a lot about life during that lunch time class!
https://t.co/2yP3rUlVPc#oklaed
Kim, I teach 4th at Jefferson Elem in Norman. I love my job and my district. My favorite subject was English and my HS English teacher is why I wanted to become a teacher. #oklaed
Andre Daughty here... Favorite class in school? Business Tech, Band... AND LUNCH!!!
Learned a lot about life during that lunch time class!
https://t.co/2yP3rUlVPc#oklaed
A1) #oklaed foreign languages, art, cooking, business, creative writing, anything that gets the students excited about coming to school... oh P.E., band, choir, dance
A1: a time for students to explore creative or physical interests, a time to enrich and help teach the whole child, a way to help students connect personally/uniquely to the learning process. #oklaed
A1 - a menu of choices for students that serve to deepen, further the engagement level, and overall improve the total academic experience for students. #oklaed
A1: my kids (personal ones)get PE, art, music, and computers. This seems to be a time for them to explore the Liberal Arts part of education while giving their teachers a plan. #oklaed
Debbie Thoreson, Dewey High School, P of 3rd grader, T of English 3 & AP. My favorite class in HS was Marketing, in college was Honors Chemistry 1, #oklaed
A1 - Elementary (non-core) classes, art, tech, music, PE. Secondary - Courses not required as part of the core. The classes that kids can #choose to take #oklaed
A1 - I think there needs to be some sort of fine arts class taken by every student. The arts are what help people learn to create and think outside the box. #oklaed
A1) Stereotypically, anything outside of the "core 4"... ELA, Science, Social Studies, Math. BUT, when I taught highschool I watched "electives" save my students' lives. So important #oklaed
A1. Electives are the classes more tailored to "special interests" and choice. They also seem to have more of a mix of students/grade levels (HS) which was nice. They provided opportunities outside of the "general education" requirements to hone a skill/craft/art. #OKLAED
A1. An elementary music teacher recently told me that they are trying to switch from "specials" to "essentials". I love the idea that the arts and PE are just as necessary to a child's education as the core 4. #oklaed
A1 - I think there needs to be some sort of fine arts class taken by every student. The arts are what help people learn to create and think outside the box. #oklaed
A1 Electives are classes students choose to take because they nurture an innate interest or talent. These classes are sometimes the only reason a student stays in school. #oklaed
#OklaEd A1: Classes not required to align with state standards but builds motivation to learn and increases students’ capabilities to interact and contribute to others.
A1 Specials help an individual become more well rounded. It is so sad art and music were the first programs cut. We still have library, computer, and PE. They are important, but our kids are missing out on other ways to develop their talents. #oklaed
I agree. I am not that great at drawing or painting, do not sing well. However I loved being in band in middle school and I would have absolutely loved a photography class. Taking pictures brings out a creativity that was hidden before I took up that hobby. #oklaed
A2: Exposure to non core classes allow students the opportunity to gain skills in a career field of their choosing to better prepare them for a career path outside of school #oklaed#teachag
A1: Art, Music, and PE develop those critical thinking skills. Allow for social/emotional learning to happen in a fun, safe atmosphere. Specials in Elementary are crucial to proper development of our children. The fact that they're declining is heart breaking. #oklaed
A2 Students often learn how to apply the things they learn in the core 4, but in a way that builds on their strengths. I know that's how newspaper worked for me. Also became my career which has informed my teaching. #oklaed
A2: essentials/specials is where I see my students really put social skills into practice (hello, P.E.) we do it in class but it is just a perfect environment for them to open up & be around other kids doing something creative or “fun” (quotes because my class is fun 😅) #oklaed
A2b Exposure to elective teachers is often students 1st exposure to a teacher who is SHAMELESSLY, DEEPLY in love with a subject that other people don't see any value in.
Fair warning: I was an elective teacher. #oklaed
A2) In high school, I love that it blends kids from different "tracks". Ss can get too leveled the older they get, being exposed to those who they may not normally. Elementary provides a foundation for interests and passion. #oklaed
A1) Electives and specials are the icing on the cake: they're the classes that make school sweeter for many students - that expand horizons beyond the basic citizen skills of the core classes. #oklaed
A2 At the least, the opportunity to dip their toes in subject that might interest them. At best, they'll find that thing that hooks them into being passionate about school and life itself. #oklaed
A2 - The benefits are they can begin to discover what they enjoy and what they are good at. Core teachers can then use that knowledge to help draw connections in core classes. Can my Ss show me they have mastered a skill through painting, playing music, etc? Absolutely! #oklaed
A2 - Non-core classes are key to student success. Many secondary S’s primary focus is on extra-curricular, band, choir, sports, drama, etc. The S’s keep their grades up to support what they love to do, the extra-curricular. #oklaed
A1) Elective classes to me are an opportunity to explore areas of interest that aren't required content areas. These classes provide Ss the freedom to express themselves creatively. #oklaed
A2: Non-core classes give the Ss a chance to explore and use their creativity to figure out what motivates them. They also give the Ss the chance to learn more about life and real world experiences and how to link their passions. #oklaed
A2 some of our kids will become professional athletes, artists, musicians and such much less what they learn from these classes even if they are destined to become a mathematician or scientist! #oklaed
A2: #oklaed Music was a major part of my K-12 education. It became a major part of my life. Solace in troubled times. Joyful expression of thanksgiving and praise. Love language for a lifetime.
A2: in secondary, non-core is what KEEPS kids in school a lot of times. It’s just a fact to face. I would’ve hated school without drama/music and I love learning... 🤷🏻♀️ #Oklaed
A2. It gives kids who aren't "good" at school a place to shine. It can also lead (at least at the high school level) to creating a community of lifelong friends. #oklaed
A2. #OKLAED Opportunities for #mindblown understandings and exposure to concepts (i.e. creative expression) not usually covered in class= ie. different languages, music, art, design, technology. etc.
Is your child vaccinated? Free shots required to attend school will be offered at metro locations this week for kids who qualify https://t.co/ZpJH41AgK9#oklaed
A2) Ss benefit from non-core classes by broadening their skills and experiences. Many Ss find their passions here and can express themselves freely and openly. #oklaed
A1: Art, Music, and PE develop those critical thinking skills. Allow for social/emotional learning to happen in a fun, safe atmosphere. Specials in Elementary are crucial to proper development of our children. The fact that they're declining is heart breaking. #oklaed
A2b Exposure to elective teachers is often students 1st exposure to a teacher who is SHAMELESSLY, DEEPLY in love with a subject that other people don't see any value in.
Fair warning: I was an elective teacher. #oklaed
A2: Non core classes give students a chance to get some energy out, socialize, be a kid, all while learning and developing skills that will help them in the core classes. #oklaed
A2) I also love that electives can often expose those who always excel "academically" to struggle if they get challenged to think in different ways. #oklaed
A1. Shout out to all the different names for it.: Essentials, Electives, Specials, Active Play, Activities, PLCs, Planning, and "get out because I need a break",
Note: That last one may have been made up! LoL
#oklaed
YESSSSS. I loved music & joining choir, I saw an adult that loved it like I did and wanted to help me love it. My English teacher was (is) a writer and it was so cool to see successful adults LOVE things like I love things. This is good. 👏🏼 #Oklaed
A2b Exposure to elective teachers is often students 1st exposure to a teacher who is SHAMELESSLY, DEEPLY in love with a subject that other people don't see any value in.
Fair warning: I was an elective teacher. #oklaed
Oh wow. So many to name. I went to a catholic school and church was the only extracurricular (joking-sort of). It wasn’t until high school that I got the chance to explore #oklaed
A2 It opens doors to what they could be. It enhances their lives. Most kids have no idea what real music is. Research supports the benefit of music classes to support the thinking necessary to order the mind for advanced science and math core subjects. #oklaed
A3: At my small, rural school we didn't offer Theater, Drama, Music, Art, etc.. We only had sports. I played basketball. I loved basketball but I needed more. #Oklaed
A2) Variety and individualism and depth are all garnered in non-core classes. Core classes are about making Ss ready to be productive citizens, electives are about helping them find their talents and interests beyond this. #oklaed
A3: Foreign languages other than Spanish, Music, Dancing, Home Economics, Financial Literacy, anything to stimulate learning and encourage growth. #oklaed
A3. I was fortunate to attend a magnet school (Booker T. Washington) that provided a more specialized curriculum. I loved taking Latin! I also appreciate that we had CHOICE in our core classes as well. It felt more like a personalized learning experience. #OKLAED
#oklaed A3: Back in the 80's, I had the Home Ec classes, accounting, typing, computer science where we designed games, and business. I would have liked art and music.
A3) I wish I would have done debate and anything at a career tech. I have seen career tech literally be the only thing keeping kids in school to graduate. Plus, I would love to know how to fix my own HVAC. #oklaed
A2. It gives kids who aren't "good" at school a place to shine. It can also lead (at least at the high school level) to creating a community of lifelong friends. #oklaed
A3 I would have loved to learn programming. We had early TRS-80s. Somebody found a program that would make an ASCII rocket and launch it. There were usually about 10 9th Graders at PC Central JH launching rockets every day before school #oklaed
A3 I wanted a creative writing class at my school, but we didn't have one. I did win 2nd place for an editorial I wrote suggesting that we start one so we could beat Norman at the writing contest. Hehe! #oklaed
A3 - I wish there would have been some sort of class where I just got to creatively problem solve. I love coming up w/solutions or planning things. And, yes, I realize how incredibly dorky that sounds. #oklaed
I did attend Noble HS for 1 nine weeks when I was in 10th grade and took a fun class called SuperWrite. I still remember those skills. What an amazing skill to have for note taking. #oklaed
A3) My school had a lot of options and I'm not sure what else would have helped! But I wish we had drafting, Home Ec, Marketing, and several others! #oklaed
A3 cont'd) Also some schools have amazing choices due to size like horticulture, forensic science, sociology, and on and on and on. #oklaed So many more options now!
A4. Does teacher ESL count? If so I wish core teachers realized ESL is essential to students learning English and I am not a resource teacher or overpaid tutor #oklaed
A4: We all go together to make a complete well rounded student. I realize the core subjects are important.... but as a loving and passionate world language teacher, I believe a global citizen is also extremely important in our society. #oklaed
A4. Does teacher ESL count? If so I wish core teachers realized ESL is essential to students learning English and I am not a resource teacher or overpaid tutor #oklaed
A4 - I have taught both electives & core classes and will be teaching some of both this coming year, I think it is important to remember we are all a key part of the school experience for our Ss. No single course or T is more important than the others. #oklaed
A4. Back when I taught drama I really wanted my colleagues to know that I have a curriculum and standards too. They may not be tested, but that doesn't make it ok to pull kids from my class to make up tests. #oklaed
Q3. In an urban (hood) area???? I would have LOVED for the school to do an entrepreneur academy. There are so many millionaires we never know because it's at "that" school. #oklaed
A1: At our school, it is music and PE for elementary. I think essential is a fabulous way to describe them! Music is a language that every culture speaks, even if it doesn’t always sound the same. PE for most kids is a reminder that exercise can be fun! #oklaed
A4: Lessons covered in our courses are just as valuable as any core course. Also, just because less written examinations and more projects are given, the course rigor is just as difficult as core classes #oklaed#teachag
A4: That we prepared every bit as much as the core teacher did, just because there wasn’t a “test” involved our class wasn’t worthless, and it’s ok for learning to be fun. #oklaed
A4: I am a core teacher but I bet they wish we would arrive on time. Seriously! I make sure I do bc it’s a matter of respect. Drop off and pick up on time. #oklaed#PetPeeve
A4 I have been a core and a special. Each job was hard work. I think good teachers recognize a hard working teacher in whatever position they are employed. Some don't want to see. #oklaed
A4) As a core teacher, I hope I understand the passion delivered by the essentials teacher. I also hope I see how fully students can be enhanced. #oklaed
A4. As someone who taught a Core/Elective= Reading Remediation, it should be known that sometimes electives are seen as "punishment," or they are optional to a core class' needs. As I reflect on how I used to pull out Ss from choir/ band/ sports, it was a detriment! #OKLAED
A4: Core T's need to know that not every S will go to college or even want to go to college. They might just want to have a trade that will benefit them. College is not the only answer. #oklaed
A4 - I have taught both electives & core classes and will be teaching some of both this coming year, I think it is important to remember we are all a key part of the school experience for our Ss. No single course or T is more important than the others. #oklaed
A4 Please don't assume it's cool for students to be significantly tardy or just miss class because "they're not doing anything, anyway" or "it's not as important as __." #oklaed
A3 Project Management should (at a minimum) be an elective course in every high school, and optimally be a required course. Those skills are absolutely essential today in so many contexts #OklaEd
A5: Just because I teach English does not mean that I am better than you. Your subjects are just as important as any other. I would love to collaborate! #oklaed
A5 I find it difficult to answer this question. I don't think that elective teachers are any different than core teachers...they have the same job and teach the same kids I do.
#oklaed
#oklaed A5: I have always wanted to work across the curriculum. It's easy to do this with the ELA standards. I think science, art, and music would be fun, and I have always wanted a STEM English class.
A5: I wish we could collaborate MORE. Some kids I couldn’t quite reach had a wonderful relationship with a specials teacher. They would probably learn core subjects a bit better from them 🤷🏻♀️ let’s just work together. #oklaed
A5 - S’s have to take math whether they want to or not. I would imagine it makes a difference when the S’s in your class, chose to be there. A little automatic buy-in. #oklaed#relationships
A5. Sometimes electives pull out from core classes= competitions/games, etc. It is hard to have that many Ss needing to miss/make up work when your curriculum has continuity to it (like teaching a novel). If sports take 3 days from my class, I need 3 days from practice!? #OKLAED
The thing is they're all essential to our students' education. PE, Art, Music, etc are just an extension of Math, Reading, Science. Not less important, just an extension. #oklaed It's a way we extend our lessons.
I agree it definitely can be for many students, but that perception is a big mountain to move for most teachers & parents. How do you think that can change? #OklaEd
This is exactly the wrong attitude. I even have Ss ask to stay in my class through electives because "it's just drama/music/tech/whatever." Sorry nope. It's school, and I'm not taking that teacher's time. #oklaed
A4 Please don't assume it's cool for students to be significantly tardy or just miss class because "they're not doing anything, anyway" or "it's not as important as __." #oklaed
A5b - I think we need to all work together in unity. If I have students in your upcoming concert or play, you might need them some extra time to prep. But if it is a week before my AP test, I might need them. #oklaed
A5) Ss HAVE to pass my class to graduate, so they might need help or encouragement from others. Also, don't make Ss choose between being good at their chosen class OR their core classes. They can be good at both. #oklaed
#OklaEd A4: Learning is sometimes dominated by standards, which turn off students’ motivation to learn. There’s so much that can be learned aligned with the standards without fixating. Not explaining well ...
If you drop off/pick up your students late you're telling that teacher that you don't respect their time. That your time is more important. STOP IT! #oklaed
A5. The test is always there and the pressure is always there. I teach a core class now and I had no idea how much stress my colleagues were under...even though they tried to explain it to me. #oklaed
Yes, teachers need to talk to each other to make it work. I've seen students stuck in the middle of a power struggle between faculty and it is ugly. #oklaed
A5b - I think we need to all work together in unity. If I have students in your upcoming concert or play, you might need them some extra time to prep. But if it is a week before my AP test, I might need them. #oklaed
I agree it definitely can be for many students, but that perception is a big mountain to move for most teachers & parents. How do you think that can change? #OklaEd
And add to that, “college right away” is not and should not be the encouraged answer for every student either. A Gap Year can be a great choice. Our 2nd child is walking down that road now... #OklaEd
A5) I’m latching in to Mr. Hime’s tweet because I can’t find the question. I’ve never encountered an essentials teacher not understanding the importance of core jobs. I’ve always thought it was mutual respect. #oklaed
@coach57 It’s like back in the day when you put the cassette tape in the boom box and you had to hit record and play at just the right time to get that mixed tape going… #oklaed
A6: I'm so glad you asked bc my librarian and I work very closely together on subjects like Social Studies. We explore new places together while on the Regions unit. Music as well... in music we explore the music of said place. #oklaed
Q5: Seriously. One of my favorite (and I think my students enjoy it) activities is using musical instruments as a way to show how ecological succession works. #oklaed
A6: I think a better questions what kind of core curriculum doesn’t connect with a non core? Music and art in Biology? Biology in art and drama? YES PLEASE #Oklaed
A6) ELA can pair with just about anything! We can write about any experience or work on observation skills or read about any subject. Finding someone who wants to put in the effort can be a challenge, though. #oklaed
@coach57 It’s like back in the day when you put the cassette tape in the boom box and you had to hit record and play at just the right time to get that mixed tape going… #oklaed
A6: If both Ts worked together and honestly tried....just about EVERY SINGLE lesson could be tweeked a little to be cross-curricular. As a WL teacher I am always looking for great ways to connect our lessons with real life situations. #oklaed
A6 - I want to brag on the @MCHSBombers1 drama department here. They do a history play over a controversial subject every spring. We work together on a q&a session to follow each performance. Those discussions carry on back to my classroom #oklaed
A6 - Oh man!!! 11th grade could be an entire year based on solving a real world problem in America - We could incorporate US History, ELA, Math, Science, Art, Computers, etc. & students could choose a problem they are passionate about - why couldn’t we ALL work together?! #oklaed
A7) At Clinton Middle School we’ve produced a cross-curricular baseball unit, across-curricular Oklahoma bombing unit, and a cross-curricular Route 66 unit. #oklaed
#oklaed A6: A STEM English class, art, music, and technology would work with ELA. It would relate to their career choices where they would explore, write about, speak about, and learn about career choices in that field of study.
A6 - When I taught JH math, it was very difficult to get all the content covered, to prepare for testing. Integrating adds extra demands that I think would be great, but weren’t able to accomplish. #oklaed
A6: so I’m lucky in that my husband is the music teacher at my school. He and I already have plans to hit some of my social studies standards collaboratively. I can’t wait until my Ss come in excited that they are learning a song we talked about the day before! #oklaed
Remember #oklaed your PLC meetings need to involve all (non core... I hate that reference) teachers so you can collaborate and your lessons can correlate.
A diverse selection. Music is a must, art, theatre in some form or another. Public speaking is a huge one. Students thrive when they have things to channel their creativity. #oklaed
A6 #coding can pair w every content area & most lessons! Students can create a simulation, tell a story, or create a game related to the curricular concepts & standards! @scratch is an ideal platform to create & share these projects. @sfryer is doing this in 3rd grade ELA #OklaEd
#OklaEd A6: To be honest, I believe the slicing learning into isolated courses is so barbaric ... I believe Ts could get together on a set of multidisciplinary driving questions, get groups and facilitate their collaboration, AND standing back as consultants / mentors.
Great question. I think that school culture dictates this attitude to a great deal. If the programs are solid and admins support and kids are on fire for their passions, then parents will be a lot more likely to buy in. #oklaed
I’m not sure if SPED is core or non-core? Either way, I want other teachers to use me as a resource. Use those accommodations! Let me know if they aren’t working.
We can make a great game plan to help our student succeed and your class run as smoothly as possible! #oklaed
Critical thinking skills, what it means to work towards a goal, and looking at things from a different point-of-view. I always hear “classical music is boring” from my students but those are the tunes they end up enjoying the most. #oklaed
#oklaed A:5 Sorry to be tardy; and forgive me if this sentiment has already been mentioned. As a former English teacher, I wish everyone would consciously integrate their own academic vocab with otherwise elevated vocab and with an ear/eye to cross-curricular terms.
A7 - Classroom manangement is key in ALL classrooms. Procedures, procedures, procedures need to be taught in all classes. Also, expectations can’t be met if they aren’t made known. #harrywong#procdures#expectations#oklaed
A7 I'm not sure I see the difference in classroom management between electives and core? Great procedures and relationships work everywhere. #oasion#oklaed
A7) Elective teachers often have the most well-established classroom management. They handle big numbers of Ss and differentiate more regularly. They are active and keep the class moving. Band, choir, orchestra, art, theater, FACS, etc #oklaed
A4. That we don’t just make pretty stuff. Leaving us out of “STEM” is tragic. STEAM. We teach all of the core subjects everyday. Teaching creative learners develop students that think outside the box. #OklaEd
A7 - I think we can all learn from each other. Some core teachers have better classroom management and some elective teachers do. It takes being open to seeing what works elsewhere and working to incorporate that in your own practice #oklaed
A6 The library is always a resource. Our librarian goes the extra mile to include the core concepts in her lessons. Our technology teacher trainer helps the teachers with resources to enhance their lessons. #oklaed
A3. (cont): Also, there were gymnasts who would've EASILY beaten Shannon Miller and others (#noshade). They just never got opportunities. #oklaed
How do we get disadvantaged students those genuine opportunities today?
A7: A quiet classroom doesn’t necessarily mean learning is happening. Stop using yesterday’s lessons to teach today’s kids. Be relevant and relate. A boring assignment is often the reason for classroom management issues. #oklaed
I feel the same way teaching ESL. Rather than give the student material they cant comprehend, work with@me to help@modify student work so they can be successful as well #Oklaed
Band isn’t a pull-out class. It is a legitimate class that student receive a grade for based on performance and when you take kids out of my room, you are hurting their grade just like if I were to take kids out of your room. #oklaed
A7: Classroom management starts with relationships. Core teachers (I only use that reference for this chat) need to remember non core teachers have a lot more Ss to develop relationships with. The amazing thing is they do it. It's so inspiring to watch. #oklaed
#oklaed A7: The best way is to keep Ss moving around. Learning is not static; it is interacting through discussions or activities. I plan on using stations this year and the flipped classroom.
PE teacher (loud voice): WHO LIKES MACARONI AND CHEESE?
Students in unison (who were running everywhere and making a ton of noise): EVERYBODY FREEZE.
30+ students froze in there spot and were silently waiting on the next instruction.
#oklaed
A7) I believe I can be taught that not being structured most of the time is okay. I believe true essentials teachers let students explore, and being an OLD core teacher, that scared me; I’m learning, though. This old dog can learn new tricks! #oklaed
A3. (cont): Also, there were gymnasts who would've EASILY beaten Shannon Miller and others (#noshade). They just never got opportunities. #oklaed
How do we get disadvantaged students those genuine opportunities today?
A7: Stop and build a relationship with your S's. Take time and talk with them. Show them you really care about them and who they are. I challenge every T to take a few days at the start of the year and talk about life with the T's. NOTHING ELSE. #oklaed
@ChristineTeel@lauren_pena16 SPED students take core and no-core classes to complete their requirements just like all other S’s do. With appropriate accommodations they can be successful in both core and non-core classes. #oklaed
In reply to
@TeachFromHere, @teamsenbecki, @MrGragg, @ChristineTeel, @lauren_pena16
#oklaed A:6 We are only limited by our imagination and our failure to purposefully explore our common or related standards. I’d add time as a limitation, but I think that’s a cop out! (Is that phrase still in the vernacular?🤔)
A7 Find ways to give students meaningful choices inside & outside your classroom. This can include how they “show what they know” in a particular unit, but can also involve flexible seating arrangements in class. Be intentional about empowering students. #OklaEd
A6 @AlphaPlusEdu We look to music for math, agriculture for science, social studies for ELA, sports for math and science and team building, home ec for math, science for ELA, art for history and math. ... The possibilities are endless. #oklaed
A7: I envy schools where procedures and expectations are consistent throughout the school. I think it is difficult for Ss to remember so many different rules for their different Ts, but it is equally difficult for essentials Ts to remember rules for each classroom T. #oklaed
True. But I have always admired band directors who can stand in front of a room of 100+ 5th graders who are all holding things that make noise and get complete silence.
A7 It starts with relationships. You are all serving the same groups of kids. All classes are easier to manage if Ts communicate and procedures are generally consistent across all classrooms. #oklaed
Fostering effective relationships with students is essential but let's not forget that effective teaching and engaging lessons make classroom management invisible! #oklaed
A8) I do art integration in my English class. We talk about other cultures and language. We do critical thinking and communication skills. We even through in some history, science , and Math. My English class is like a one stop shop for world knowledge. #Oklaed
A8 takes a commitment from admin to first not make the state test the end all be all and also to find ways to remediate without pulling kids from these courses. A master schedule reflects the values of the school. Think outside the box! #oklaed
A8 - In HS, they have time built into their schedules, BUT we created a weekly remediation/enrichment time where Ss have the opportunity to pick things they might be interested in if they don’t need extra help- knitting, cake decorating, hip-hop as poetry, crafts, etc! #oklaed
A7 Classroom management is essential in any setting. Teachers can share ideas of what works with individual students. Some students find a different environment a problem and have difficulty handling the change. #oklaed
A8) My school has been great about keeping most electives. Our ES is probably losing music, but it is only because there were NO candidates for that position. :-( #oklaed
What if we could identify talents and interests early, then provide more hours in those areas for students? Think vocational ed., but for kids who are interested in science, math, literature, writing... I did this with multiple journalism classes, but not all kids can. #oklaed
A3. (cont): Also, there were gymnasts who would've EASILY beaten Shannon Miller and others (#noshade). They just never got opportunities. #oklaed
How do we get disadvantaged students those genuine opportunities today?
A8 - TIME. I am working to better our schedule for next year, to have fewer disruptions to the school day. We need to ensure that teachers time with students (core and non-core) is protected. #oklaed
Entering year 8 as the #cpsreds Superintendent thanks to a team of superstars we have increased student options almost every year and hopefully continue to do so #OklaEd
A8 - In HS, they have time built into their schedules, BUT we created a weekly remediation/enrichment time where Ss have the opportunity to pick things they might be interested in if they don’t need extra help- knitting, cake decorating, hip-hop as poetry, crafts, etc! #oklaed
A8) I do art integration in my English class. We talk about other cultures and language. We do critical thinking and communication skills. We even through in some history, science , and Math. My English class is like a one stop shop for world knowledge. #Oklaed
A8: Allow students to develop their own final project or assessment. Work with other Ts that the Ss have to collaborate on that final project. #twobirdsonestone#oklaed
It is important to move away from reading and math to literacy and numeracy and focus on cross-curricular outcomes. Not perfect but it works for us in Alberta and we typically have some of the highest results with one of the most diverse populations. #oklaed
A8: Clinton #cpsreds added an AP Spanish class last year. By expanding this "essential/elective" department we had almost 10 students get their foot into the college door with University credits thanks to the course. Accountability CAN include electives. #oklaed
A8) My school has been great about keeping most electives. Our ES is probably losing music, but it is only because there were NO candidates for that position. :-( #oklaed
Bixby educator heading overseas to teach following statewide walkout https://t.co/MkELx8GkA1
Interesting how she thinks her kindergarten wouldn't be challenged here? Why? Also, it is good money b/c it's TAX FREE!
#oklaed#oklahomacity#boomersooner
A8) In a smaller school you have to make electives a priority and really work on scheduling to ensure they are available to as many Ss as possible. #oklaed
A8. Explain the why behind it. Those electives weren't just time fillers (although my 9th grade Spanish class was as the teacher came to school drunk daily), but they help teach soft skills, 21st Cent. skills and beyond! #oklaed
A8: My students have a set Art/PE time. I schedule library time and we are an Art integrated school so I teach Art and I love it. I also teach Spanish. and this year plan to integrate ASL. #oklaed Going to be an exciting year!
#oklaed A8: My seniors complete a senior project over topics like career choices, social issues, or entertainment. A lot of the projects relate to other classes like art, music, and technology. It's a start, but I plan to expand it this year.
A8: PLCs bringing together core/elective teachers to discuss how to best serve our students. Not only discussing it, but actually doing it. Every student’s education may not look the same! #oklaed
A8: Clinton #cpsreds added an AP Spanish class last year. By expanding this "essential/elective" department we had almost 10 students get their foot into the college door with University credits thanks to the course. Accountability CAN include electives. #oklaed
A9) Ummm... we are a little short on extracurricular events at Emerson... #oklaed oh I did get to go to Parent-Teacher Conferences...ummm... that was cool 😉
A6b: I also ❤️ working w/ our librarian! Last year, I had my Ss do their first ever research project. Our librarian taught a series of lessons on research, and I walked each S thru the writing process. I couldn’t have done it effectively without our librarian! #oklaed
A8: My students have a set Music/PE time. I schedule library time and we are an Art integrated school so I teach Art and I love it. I also teach Spanish. and this year plan to integrate ASL. #oklaed Going to be an exciting year!
A3: Financial literacy! And I want to teach it. It’s like Teen survival on steroids. Real would examples on a daily! Registrating to vote, completingthe FAFSA, paying the water bill online, and filing taxes. Things our kids need for the next level 👏🏾 #oklaed
A8 When curriculum maps are based on state standards, these can be taught at a more effective and timely pace that allows covering all content the teacher deems important. Especially true when other content areas help w key objectives. #oklaed
A9 - I would be at everything if I could make it work easily with 3 children aged 7 and under of my own. My favorite event though was our year end awards night. Seeing my students getting honored for their vast abilities was rewarding. #oklaed
I was in a new school, new grade this year. We have sports but they’re offered to 4th & 5th (I teach 3rd) so I didn’t make it this year but already plan to go to SO MANY next year to see my kids. I’m actually already excited about this.. 😅 #Oklaed
A9 - I honestly go to pretty much everything I can! My favorite though is going to our leadership retreat every year - it’s sometimes hard to give up a weekend w/my own kids, but man I love hanging out w/other babies outside of school! #oklaed
For real - school districts are being forced to cut “electives” at every chance. There must be a unified voice that all subject areas are important for all of our students. That must be communicated to our elected budget policy people.
#oklaed
A9) I try to attend any game or concert a student invites me to, but Ss and coaches do not seem to return the favor by attending my Key Club events. I wish they would! #oklaed
In Alberta many of our high schools have switched to a redesign concept that moves away from time. Great stuff when done well. https://t.co/okI7dASFPY#abed#hs4#oklaed
Thank you @DellEMCedu OKC for taking our Student Tech Teams from Fairview and Kingsgate on guided tour. Learned that it not just about knowing the tech, it’s about communication and teamwork! #mpschat#oklaed
A8 I wish all classrooms could be like kindergarten...We have it all Drama, art, music, movement, maker, tech...it’s all essential and important and help to tie core subjects together. #oklaed
Thanks, Scotty! I’m trying to energize my secondary admins as we race toward the beginning of school. We all attended NASSP National Principals’ Conf, and it was really stimulating! Thus, #EPSleaders ! (What’s a “sleader”? you ask!) #oklaed
A9 - I attended all the home athletic events, my old school needed an athletic facilitator (I have NEVER coached), so I filled the gap for 3 years. S’s work harder for their extra curricular activity than anything else, they love seeing us there. #oklaed
A9: our Leadership kids are always doing something to get kids involved and participating in those events always gives me insight into my kids lives. #Oklaed
Identify yes, but also develop and provide space for those talents too. Some people don't know they have talent or interest in areas until later. Some may never have that love for it... Example, I didn't like reading for pleasure until late 20s.
#oklaed
#oklaed A9: One of my seniors planned a music concert, set up the time, made the flyers, scheduled the performers, and was the MC of the event. It was wonderful to see a S take charge and complete a project.
A9 - I would be at everything if I could make it work easily with 3 children aged 7 and under of my own. My favorite event though was our year end awards night. Seeing my students getting honored for their vast abilities was rewarding. #oklaed
A8: #oklaed Leaders must listen to students, know their interests, and make it a priority to help them pursue their passions. I'm excited about the Internships added to the Mid-Del menu this year, matching students with their career interests.
A9: since my husband is the music teacher, I get to go with the high school band to the state fair and I take my toddler with me. He gets so into the bands walking by that even when I’m ready to move on because our band is done, he gets away from me to go back and listen. #oklaed
So true! We help build Data Teams that include as many “core and non-core” and admins and support staff who are willing to help. That kind of school team is just unstoppable. It’s a key component of all the Natl Blue Ribbon Schools we’ve helped build. Critical topic. #oklaed
A10 - @FTLOTMblog has done an amazing job making our DECA program an amazing success. She is definitely one of the many #MDubLearns Elective rockstars. #oklaed
A10 Shoutout to @charminwilliams for scoring a huge grant and four @makerbot 3D printers for our school. I am a math teacher with a 3D printer in my room. That's awesome. #falconpride#oklaed
Yes! This is exactly what my journalism classes did for me. I think because of our focus on testing, my young writers, in particular, have not been developed and don't have the space they need to hone their skills and grow in confidence. #oklaed
A10) Shout out to my choir teacher from HS, Debbie Gillam (now) from Choctaw many years ago. Built my confidence and drove my desire to become an educator! #oklaed
A10) Rockstar essentials teachers at Clinton Middle School are Krista Steiner, Nikki Harrington, Dez Lillie, Coach Derek Jackson, and Greg McKee. #oklaed
A10 - We have so many at PCW - Claudia Kaestner, Jill Slay (@PCWLibrary), Amanda Fryar, Jeff Bishop, Dwayna Williams (@dwayna83), Lisa Taulman, Sarah Deal, Aundrea Reed, Eddie Hudson, Brad Gray...I could go on and on and on! I work with ROCK STARS! #oklaed
They’re not on twitter but Mrs. Mash & Mr. Cain for letting me be Cinderella on a stage which truly still impacts my life today (it’s corny, I don’t care 👌🏼) #oklaed
A10 #cpsreds has the BEST ever Library Media Specialist in the WORLD. @vperezy is very willing to work with ANY teacher (core or elective) as well as help implement STEAM into their lessons as well. Priceless!!!! #bestofthebest#oklaed
A9: #oklaed My favorite extra-curricular events have been performances that included teacher talent in the show! The CAHS musical Oklahoma! was one show that included teachers. The DCHS band performance of Inchon was amazing with the sound of helicopters moving across the room.
A10 Sally Burr taught journalism and photography classes throughout my high school years. I my newspaper and now my teaching career to her. Sadly, she passed away before I had a chance to thank her. #oklaed
Thank you @DellEMCedu OKC for taking our Student Tech Teams from Fairview and Kingsgate on guided tour. Learned that it not just about knowing the tech, it’s about communication and teamwork! #mpschat#oklaed
This was a great chat.I learned to have more respect than I already do for the essentials teachers because the students are more well-rounded because of them.I enjoy learning and hope I continue to learn each day I’m at school! #oklaed
