Essential Teaching and Learning

(C) 2007 Scott Freiberger By Scott B. Freiberger As we step outside and feel the proverbial autumn winds of change upon us, the lyrics to “Some Things Never Change” from Disney’s feel-good franchise hit “Frozen 2” reverberate: “Yes, the wind blows a little bit colder, and we’re all getting older, and the clouds are moving on with every autumn breeze...that’s why I rely on certain certainties.”   In spite of the pandemic, some things really do never change, like the need for providing all children a warm, welcoming, world-class education. As the new school year commences like a novel, unscripted movie, it seems we could all use some stress-reduction.   Take a deep breath as you prepare scholars for powerful new classroom experiences, and upgrade the new normal with substantial scholastic technology.   Here are five telltale tips for providing prodigious in-person learning. 1.       Soft-Serve a Superabundance of SEL I had penned about the i...

 Photo credit: (C) 2003 Scott Freiberger By Scott B. Freiberger Turn the page and open your eyes. This is no Disney fairy tale.  While it may seem as though we have been strapped in for months on the Wicked Twister , the time has come to step off the ride and step up for families .  As we enter a new chapter in the continuing evolution of the home-school relationship during the days of Covid-19, transparency becomes paramount as truth equates with trust.  How do you soothe parental nerves during a pandemic?  Here are five trustworthy tips for singular school leaders. 1. The Equation is Straightforward: Transparency = Trust First, report continuing, relevant developments on a consistent basis, and ensure information is available in a variety of languages .  Even if unsure, inform parents that you will try your best to unravel answers, and be sure to follow up as soon as humanly possible.  After 164 visits to Disney theme parks, I noticed tha...