Winter break isn’t a productivity challenge. It’s not a time to “get ahead,” color-code lesson plans, or finally reorganize every cabinet. Winter break is a pause — and teachers need it. If you’re exhausted, overstimulated, or feeling guilty for not doing more, this post is for you. Let Yourself Truly Stop Teaching is a profession that runs on constant output: decisions, patience, emotional regulation, multitasking. By December, your nervous system is tired — even if your min

Every teacher knows the feeling: you’re in the middle of a great lesson when behaviors start pulling your attention away from learning. While behavior challenges are normal—especially during high-energy times of the year—they don’t have to derail instruction. Here are intentional, instruction-friendly strategies that support student behavior while keeping learning moving. 1. Teach Expectations Like Content Behavior expectations should be taught the same way we teach academics

Teaching science in elementary classrooms can feel overwhelming—especially when time, materials, and energy are limited. The good news? You don’t need elaborate experiments or expensive supplies to spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Here are five low-prep, high-impact strategies you can use immediately to increase student engagement in science—whether you’re departmentalized or teaching all subjects. ⸻ 1. Start with a Science “Notice & Wonder” Before diving into a less