Test Prep Reimagined: Brain-Based Strategies That Improve Student Performance

Sometimes, the challenge of taking a high-stakes test is less about the content itself and more about a student’s ability to access the content and manage the cognitive demands while doing so. Today, we will explore three research-supported strategies that help students strengthen and organize their long-term memory during test preparation and focus their limited … read more »

What a Viral EdTech Argument Teaches Us About Media Literacy and Influence

This is my second post examining the argument Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath has been making about educational technology. In my first post—Let’s Talk About What the Research on K12 EdTech Actually Shows—I looked closely at the evidence behind his claims and what the peer-reviewed research actually says. This post asks a different question, and one … read more »

The Power of Two: Why Librarian-Teacher Collaboration is the Ultimate Classroom Hack

You’re staring at a new unit plan, trying to figure out how to weave in media literacy, find credible primary sources, and keep thirty different students engaged—all while hitting your state standards. It feels like a solo mountain climb. But here’s the thing: you aren’t alone on that mountain. Just down the hall—or perhaps right … read more »

Open-Ended Questions: A Powerful Tool for Language and Vocabulary Development

When teaching children, especially young learners, questions are more than just a way to check for understanding. They’re a gateway to deeper thinking, richer conversations, and meaningful learning. But not all questions are created equal. Open-ended questions, which invite more than a simple “yes” or “no,” encourage children to reflect, express themselves, and explore ideas. … read more »

Engaging Students Through the Milan—Cortina 2026 Winter Games

“The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part.” Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympics Children and adults worldwide look forward to the Winter Olympic Games, an event that brings together athletes from across the globe to compete, inspire, and showcase their skill, determination, and creativity. The Winter … read more »

Empowering Student Voice with Digital Storytelling

In today’s classrooms, amplifying student voice isn’t just good practice; it is a necessity for engagement and equity. Research shows that when students see their identities and experiences reflected in their learning environment, achievement increases significantly. Digital storytelling offers a powerful way for students to share their experiences, ideas, and identities in meaningful, multimodal ways. … read more »

Make A Summer of Creativity!

Summer is the perfect time for students to explore their creativity through maker projects and design challenges! These activities give students the freedom to create, experiment, and engage in self-directed learning, using materials found at home or provided in kits sent from school. Whether short and simple or long-term and immersive, maker projects encourage problem-solving, … read more »

One Word for the New Year!

What if you decided on one word to guide your life for the upcoming year instead of a lengthy New Year’s resolution? That is the idea behind the one word project. Choosing one powerful word that resonates with you and your goals to direct you through the new year. The one word project is an … read more »

Innovate with Low-Tech and No-Tech STEAM!

Low-Tech, No-Tech STEAM……Isn’t that an oxymoron? Actually, no, it’s not! STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education combines Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math to guide inquiry, discussion, collaboration, and critical thinking. It is still STEAM teaching, even if it is low or no tech. Technology is a broad topic; it does not have … read more »

Let’s Talk About Student Activism

Reflecting on the anniversary of Bloody Sunday, I’ve wondered what we as a society have learned and how those lessons can help our students today. Listening to some of the youngest participants in the march – children at the time – reminds me that our children need to see that they can “drive the change … read more »