Eliana Lipsky, Ed.D’s Post

“It’s also helped me reflect on my own teaching practice. I have to consistently ask myself the question, ‘Why are we actually doing this?...Are we doing it because it’s best practice? Are they quality questions that both meet the objective and deepen student thinking?’” -Evie Beall-Cottrell, social studies teacher, mentor teacher, and Learning Science Consortium participant. For many new teachers, the transition from an educator-preparation program into their first years of teaching can be overwhelming. That’s why having a strong pre-service to in-service support system, with mentor teachers like Beall-Cottrell, is crucial in building their efficacy and confidence, both in the early years and in the long-term. Through the Learning Science Consortium, in partnership with Frederick County Public Schools and Hood College, we’re making sure that every aspiring and novice teacher receives the quality, evidence-based instructional support system they need to engage all students in rigorous, affirming learning experiences. Hear more from Beall-Cottrell, teacher-candidate Jazmin Colon, and other participants in the Consortium to learn about the community-wide impact of this critical work: https://lnkd.in/gzsKbd-Q

"I can teach college and 12th students, but not nursery," As an educational coach, I often hear teachers say this, It raises an important question: What does it really mean to be a versatile educator? Teaching Grade 12 demands a deep mastery of content, the ability to foster critical thinking, and the skill to guide students as they prepare for the complexities of higher education and beyond. On the other hand, teaching a nursery requires patience, creativity, and the ability to build the very foundations of learning—often through play and exploration. Both roles are challenging in their own right and require a unique blend of empathy, creativity, and dedication. The real question isn't whether you can teach both; it's whether you're willing to embrace the diversity in the learning needs of different age groups. I can demonstrate both as for me connecting with students of all ages enriches my learning experience. Whether you're inspiring a nursery child's first steps into learning or guiding a Grade 12 students final steps before graduation, the impact you make is profound. #Education #TeacherTraining #LifelongLearning #VersatileEducator #EarlyChildhoodEducation #SecondaryEducation

🌟 Why Creating a Safe Space for Kids Matters 🌟 😍 As educators, we’re entrusted with more than just teaching academic content—we’re responsible for nurturing the whole child. Creating a safe and supportive classroom environment is crucial because it lays the foundation for everything else. When students feel safe and cared for, they thrive. 😌 A safe space isn’t just about physical safety; it’s about emotional security too. It’s a place where students feel respected, heard, and valued. When we show kids that we care about them—not just as students but as individuals—we’re empowering them to reach their full potential. We’re teaching them that they matter. A caring environment: 🤸♀️ Encourages students to express themselves and explore new ideas without fear. 🤝 Builds trust, making it easier to address challenges and support their growth. 🌎 Cultivates a sense of belonging, which is essential for both emotional and academic success. 🤩 When we prioritize creating a safe space, we’re doing more than just managing a classroom—we’re shaping the next generation to be confident, compassionate, and capable. Let’s continue to show our students that we care, because it makes all the difference. #EducationMatters #StudentWellbeing #SafeSpaces #TeachingWithHeart #EmpathyInEducation #ClassroomCulture #DojoTutor #ClassDojo #hiring #Teacher #TransitioningTeacher #Education

Embracing Understanding: A Reflection on Labeling Students Hey everyone, I recently had a conversation with a friend who teaches in primary school, and the stories he shared left me quite concerned about the way we perceive and label our students. It's disheartening to hear that some teachers are quick to brand certain students as troublemakers and even predict their future paths negatively. The incident my friend described, where a teacher labeled students as the "worst human beings" and predicted they would become criminals, is not only disheartening but reflects a mindset that goes against the principles of education.  As educators, I believe that our role goes beyond imparting knowledge; it involves nurturing and understanding each student's unique journey. I suggest that instead of writing off a child or adult student as a troublemaker, we should invest time in understanding the reasons behind their actions and work towards addressing the root causes. Let's strive for empathy and patience in our teaching practices. By embracing understanding and compassion, we can create a more supportive educational environment for our students. #teaching #teachertraining #educationforall #educationalleadership #empathy #positivechange #esl #eslteaching #classroommanagement #eslteacher #highereducation

Critical discussions to have

Being a first-generation learner is a journey that many of us can't fully grasp. When my child encounters a challenge in his studies, he has a wealth of resources—his mother, father, grandparents, and even extended family. But for a first-generation learner, there is only one lifeline: their teacher. In the absence of a support system at home, the teacher becomes their guiding light, their mentor, and sometimes their only source of academic help. A poster to highlight this issue. # Earlyeducation # Primaryeducation #FirstGenerationLearner #EducationMatters #EmpowerThroughEducation #LearningJourney #SupportTeachers #BreakingBarriers #EducationForAll #InspirationInLearning #TeacherSupport #EducationalEquality

“I know it's a cliché, but it's for the kids. It’s never a day goes by that I question whether what I'm doing has an impact on my community. When I work with kids every day, I know that what I'm doing is important, is useful, is necessary.” Part of their new The State of Teaching project, this powerful piece from Education Week captures the best aspects of the teaching profession, as told by teachers across the country. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/giGxiJkW #EdChat #K12 #SchoolLeaders #TeachersOfLinkedIn

"How Children Learn" by John Holt explores alternative perspectives on education, emphasizing the natural ways children learn through curiosity and self-directed exploration. Holt challenges traditional schooling methods and encourages a deeper understanding of a child's innate learning abilities. Reading this book is valuable for those who wish to impact youth because it offers insights into fostering a supportive learning environment, acknowledging individual differences, and promoting a love for learning rather than relying solely on conventional educational practices. It encourages a reflective approach to education that can empower educators and parents to better engage with and guide the younger generation.

In the bustling world of education, where curriculums and teaching methods are as varied as the learners themselves, the IB stands out for its commitment to developing inquisitive, knowledgeable, and caring young people. For educators, one thing is clear: when we encourage students to question, we ignite their curiosity and empower them to take charge of their learning. For parents, supporting inquiry at home by encouraging questions and exploration can reinforce this powerful learning process. Let's continue to foster environments, both in classrooms and at home, where inquiry is not just encouraged but celebrated. The future depends on the thinkers, innovators, and problem-solvers we nurture today!

"What do you miss most about teaching a class of primary students?" asked a friend recently. My reply? The smiles on the students' faces as they enter the room each morning, when they see their friends, and when they feel success as they begin to understand new concepts. It's seeing their smiles as they leave to go home at the end of each day knowing they have had a great day of learning, growing, and developing. There is much chatter in the media and on social platforms at present. In a world filled with noise and conflicting opinions, teaching remains a noble calling—a beacon of stability and guidance. Despite the challenges and pressures, teachers persevere, driven by a deep sense of purpose and the belief in the transformative power of education. It takes courage, determination, and a strong belief in self to return day after day to an environment that is not always peaceful and calm. To walk through the storm of opinion and criticism. To give of self, to share energy as well as knowledge and skills, to lead by example, and to show students how to work together to achieve great results. As my parents always told me - Anything worth doing is worth doing well. And teachers embody this ethos every day, going above and beyond to ensure their students thrive and succeed. Teachers always do well because they believe in their worth and the worth of their students. It is important to recognize the immense value teachers bring to the community as a whole. Not just now but into the future - preparing students and enabling them to help build a better future. #teachertips #teachertoteacher #teacherlife