Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR IS NOT A DREAM...IT'S A PLAN!
FEATURED TEACHERJeff Wilson, veteran math and science LAMS teacher, has been using a point-based, classroom management system that has the other 6th grade teachers taking notice. I got a chance to observe him in action. I watched him hand students a warmup worksheet as they came in the door. They all marched to their seats and began doing the work immediately without any further persuasion. The only thing Mr. Wilson had to say was, "Please begin the warmup if you want to keep your 20 points." I knew he was saying that for my benefit, because the students obviously already understood this. As he began the day's lesson, he kept the students engaged by prompting them to take notes and do the guided practice step by step. He checked for understanding by walking around and making sure they were staying on task. The ones who fell behind were reminded to keep up or lose points. The way it works is, the students start each day with 20 participation points. They can earn up to five more points for a total of 25 per day and get an A+ for outstanding participation. They can also lose points for infractions like misbehavior, not doing homework, etc. This participation score is weighted at 20% of the final trimester grade. I could go on and on about the exemplary practices I witnessed, but I encourage you visit Mr. Wilson and see for yourself. Way to go, Jeff! Peer ObservationsAre you interested in visiting a colleague's classroom and sharpening your own skills? At Los Alisos, we have a plethora of talented teachers who have perfected many classroom management, technology integration, AVID, science lab, and other skills. Just let Ms. Mayes or Ms. Dreiling know and they will cover your class while you go on your peer observation. We can all benefit by sharing our areas of expertise with each other. INSPIRATIONAL QUOTESThe greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, "The children are now working as if I didn't exist." - Maria Montessori All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and somebody who believes in them. - Magic Johnson | IS "BLAME & SHAME" |