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2015-2016 PD Plan is Online!
As another year begins to wind down, administrators are preparing for 2015-2016. Many administrators are working hard on their school improvement plans. Before you finish your school improvement plans, make sure you take a look at the professional development opportunities that Kent ISD is planning for 2015-2016. 2015-2016 school year is shaping up to be a…
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How to Avoid the Dreaded Summer Slide
It isn’t much of a leap to start dreaming of carefree summer months after a few days of sunshine and sixty degree weather here in Michigan. Summer is often categorized as free time – a time to kick back, relax, and revel in the freedom of schedule “free” days. However, the sad reality is that…
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When We Start with Kids: Personalizing Learning with EDIFY
I will never forget the day my AP Biology teacher wheeled a TV into our classroom and with sheer excitement told us we’d be learning about DNA in a new way. He stepped aside to reveal a brand new piece of technology: the laser disc player! Laugh. I did too. However, as Mr. Demmink carefully…
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Professional Learning: 4 Ideas for Busy Teachers
“For most educators working in schools, professional learning is the singular most accessible means they have to develop the new knowledge, skills, and practices necessary to better meet students’ learning needs.” Learning Forward We all know professional learning is important. But with limitations of time and money, the journey to build our knowledge becomes even more of a challenge.
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Feeling Overwhelmed? Consider the 80/20 Rule
Teaching is this hugely complex, challenging calling, and that’s why I’m glad it’s mine. I don’t foresee getting to a place where I’m like, “You know what? I’ve got this all figured out. Done. Turn on the cruise control.” To be honest, I think few of us will get there, and if we do, it…
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The time to innovate is now!
Miles and miles of trenches snaked through the landscape of Western Europe from 1914 to 1918, often only a few miles apart. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers fought and died in trenches, some only a few feet deep. Rain flooded the trench, rodents and insects infested the men, and the dead were a constant reminder…
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How to Build Complexity to Foster Critical Thinking
Teachers work tirelessly to help students achieve success. There are so many teachers that are dedicated to their profession. We appreciate the determination and drive that teachers exhibit when working with our children. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if all the amazing teachers were recognized for their passion? Unfortunately, there can only be one
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What No One Tells You About Secondary Programming at Kent ISD
On October 2nd, administrators, guidance personnel and other student support service professionals will have a unique opportunity to gain a deeper knowledge of the secondary programming that Kent ISD has to offer students and staff in our region. The Secondary Summit & Fall Update will feature
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Students Improve Spelling Skills
Registration is underway for the 37th Greater Grand Rapids Spelling Bee! Students who participate in spelling bees improve their spelling skills and expand their vocabularies.
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Professional Learning We Love
School is back in session and students aren’t the only ones excited to learn. With the new school year come many great opportunities for educators to learn, network, and share. One of these unique and fun opportunities of EdCampGR. EdCampGR is a completely different way of professional learning. Unlike other professional learning opportunities, it’s difficult to explain…