Motivating Struggling Learners

One of the most exciting things that happened to me this summer was the publication of my newest book (number 15), Motivating Struggling Learners:  10 Ways to Build Student Success.  It includes topics such as intrinsic motivation, praise and positive feedback, growth mindset, high expectations, support and scaffolding, engagement, grit and resilience, and celebrating diverse learners.  Pre-orders were fabulous, and it was a big hit at the summer conferences.  Just for this month, use the discount code BBB15 and get a 20% discount.  Check it out and let me know what you think!

Getting Organized for #Rigor

Do you want to increase rigor in your classroom or school?  Do you need to be organized to make that happen?  This month's e-newsletter is on that very topic, with guest author Dr. Frank Buck.  Just click on the button to the right to sign up; I'll be resending it several times over the next week.  It's about a five minute read, with lots of tips for teachers, and a Principal's Corner.  Check it out!

Two New Resources for #Teachers and a Bonus One for Principals

In July, Middleweb published an article I wrote, Do We Really Have High Expectations? which discusses how expectations are reflected in our actions.    

Do you have high expectations for your students? I’ve never met a teacher who said, “I have low expectations for my students.” The challenge is that we sometimes have hidden low expectations of certain students.  One year, early in my teaching career, several teachers “warned” me about Daniel, a new student in my room. During class, he certainly lived up to (really down to) the teachers’ comments. Despite my efforts, my expectations for him became lower, with the words “They warned me” echoing in the back of my mind.

In August, Teachers.Net followed up with an article on Building a Relationship with Your Students.

Building a relationship with your students is the most important action you can take to ensure a good year that will help your students learn. There are three specific ways to build a relationship with your students.

1. Be Open About Yourself

2. Learn About Your Students

3. Create a Safe Climate 

Finally, in August, Middleweb published an article I co-wrote with Dr. Ron Williamson:  Creating a Vision for the School Year.  It's filled with suggestions for principals, so be sure to share! 

I hope you enjoy all of them and be sure to share the Vision article with your principal!!!!

Kicking off the School Year!

Are you excited to start the school year?  I'd like you to take a few moments and think about that excitement.  It's important to continue that excitement throughout the year.  I'd encourage you to take a few minutes and write your vision.  Take an index card, and list the ten reasons you are excited to be a teacher.  Why do you know you are going to make a difference this year?  What are you most looking forward to?  During the year, when your enthusiasm wanes, take a look at your index card and revisit your vision.  I know you are going to make a difference this year.  Take time to write why you believe that's true!

Summer Professional Development for #Teachers

I hope your summer has been going well.  For me, I've been quite busy presenting professional development sessions in Texas, Tennessee, Phoenix, Little Rock, Santa Fe, and South Carolina.  It's been wonderful connecting with teachers and principals across the nation.

If you are looking for some quick resources for your own professional development to kick off the school year, I'd make two suggestions.  First, check out my website, www.barbarablackburnonline.com.  There are over 100 resources, including articles, book downloads, and podcasts.  Each is free, and you have copyright permission to use them in your classroom or school.  The best point?  You don't have to register!!!

Second, in May, BAM! Radio Network launched my new show, WRGR:  Rigor Made Easy.   The 8-10 minute radio shows focus on a variety of subjects on rigor, such as Rigor for Students with Special Needs, Rigor for Students in a High Poverty School, Rigor Using Complex Text, and Rigor from a Superintendent's Perspective.  Upcoming shows include Rigor in the Kindergarten Classroom, Rigor in the Band Classroom, Rigor in Math, and Rigor for School Counselors.  You can stream it, or subscribe via ITunes.  I hope you'll consider listening.

Enjoy your last remaining days before you start back to school.  And please check out my resources.