ECET2, Also Known as “The Teacher Life-Changer”

If you’ve been on Twitter and follow any amount of educators, odds are, you’ve seen “#ecet2”. Okay, the tweets are awesome. The hashtag keeps trending, but why? What is this #ecet2″ and why should you care? Well, “you’re gonna learn today”!

In brief, ECET²/#ecet2 is life-changing. I’d go as far as saying that it’s “The Teacher Life-Changer”. As an educator, you NEED to discover this movement and get involved. But, if you need more information, I totally understand. Per the website, ecet2.org, “ECET² stands for Elevating and Celebrating Effective Teaching and Teachers. With support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the ECET² network was born out of a desire to provide a forum for exceptional teachers to learn from one another and to celebrate the teaching profession.”

How I discovered ECET² was being asked to be a part of the Central Kentucky convening planning committee. I was intrigued and agreed to help plan. I’d have to say it’s one of the best professional decisions I have ever made. And in case you were curious, I am now part of the state-level convening planning committee and could not be more excited!

What I learned about ECET² convenings is that there are six key ingredients that help us, as teachers, realize our potential. These key ingredients are: nurturing trust among teachers, focusing on each teacher’s potential for growth, providing time for collaboration and learning, inspiring both the intellect and the passion that drives teachers in their work, putting teachers in the lead, and recognizing teachers as talented professionals. There are also two content focus outcomes in place: innovative instructional practices and teacher leadership. The convenings also have several session types: colleague circles, cultivating a calling keynotes, and teacher-led breakout sessions. ECET² also incorporates celebratory elements, networking opportunities, as well as opportunities for reflection. Ecet2.org states that by the end of 2015, there will have been 5 national convenings, 109 regional convenings, 27 state-hosted regional convenings, and 19k teachers who attend these convenings. Talk about a growing movement!

As you can see, there’s a great deal involved with ECET² and it’s amazing. I was so amazed by the connections I made that day. I went in thinking, okay, I know some of the people in attendance, I’ll probably stick with them throughout the day. WRONG! While I so enjoyed catching up with some of the people I only “see” through Twitter chats and other state meetups, I was amazed by the people I met at ECET² and what they were able to teach me! I was even more excited that there were sessions for preschool and Kindergarten! As a Kindergarten teacher, I was so thrilled to be able to network with those who knew what I was experiencing. As a first year teacher, it was so refreshing learning that what I was feeling was in fact normal and that I am doing a “good job”. These ladies I met in the Kindergarten sessions were amazing and I am so glad I went out of my comfort zone! While the sessions were wonderful, I truly appreciated the opportunity to network within a small group and have real conversations.

If you get down to it, that, to me, is what ECET² is- an opportunity for networking and having real, meaningful conversations. The support you will receive from this ECET²/#ecet2 family is beyond anything I can explain. If you feel like you could use some cheerleaders/teacher besties in your corner, get involved! If your state doesn’t have any ECET² convenings, be the person who changes this! Or, if you aren’t quite ready to totally dive in, join those of use who participate in the #ecet2 Twitter chat every Sunday at 8 PM EST. I’d be glad to welcome you to the club or to answer any questions you may have.

-Lyndsay

Tweet it Out- My Why and 3 Great Resources

Twitter. Sure, you’ve heard of it, but as an educator, have you truly explored the wonderful opportunities that Twitter can offer you? If not, I beg you, yes, beg you, to try it out. I have made connections literally throughout the world, and I haven’t even started teaching yet. 🙂 I don’t know too many people who can say that, but I wish I do! If you’re already in the classroom, then you definitely need to try Twitter. Currently, I have 581 followers, which may not be a ton, but it certainly feels like it. These “followers” spread throughout the entire globe and are there any time I have a question or need support. The beauty of this is that I am able to branch out beyond my school, district, state, and even country to gain new perspectives I would not have had access to if not for Twitter. Just gaining a PLN (Professional Learning Network) alone is my number one reason you should join. Granted, there are many other reasons, but I’ll let the links do the talking while I encourage you to “tweet it out, out, out”.

Nine Great Reasons Why Teachers Should Use Twitter

Why Teachers Should Join Twitter…What I have Learned as a Twitter Newbie

The Ultimate Twitter Guidebook

-Lyndsay

Lessons, Tips, and Advice for New Teachers

 

Although I am not yet in my own classroom, I wanted to share some lessons, tips, and advice for new teachers I learned today. I participated in the inaugural #FutureEdChat via Twitter and posed the question “going into my first year of teaching; what’s one thing I should know to ease the nerves?” Therefore, these tips are not my own, but with so many responses, I felt it was only fair to share the knowledge.

Side note- If your tip is mentioned and you would like it removed, please let me know!

• “Get to know your Ss first; don’t try doing it all; focus on one thing & do it really well :)” -Shelly Vohra (@raspberryberet3).
• “My 1 piece of advice to you.. DON’T TRY TO RUSH THINGS… everything always takes longer than we expect!” -Kerri Thompson (@kerriattamatea).
• “Rome wasn’t built in a day. Don’t try to do everything everyone else is doing, it’s too overwhelming. Pick 1.” -Naomi Anderson (@andersonnaomi2).
• “Trust yourself & your Ss. Don’t B afraid 2 shift gears & learn from Ss.Enjoy the ride.” -Jena Ball (@JenaiaMorane). 
• “Be yourself. Have fun first. Enjoy the days.” -Jon Corippo (@jcorippo).
• “You are not alone! There are thousands of wonderful educators worldwide happy to help and answer your Qs. :-)” -Simon Johnson (@clcsimon).
• “Don’t beat yourself up no matter what happens. You have a whole career to get things right.” -Eoin Lenihan (@eoinlenihan).
• ” The highs are higher than the lows are low. Find a mentor or support group and be open to everything.” -Vanessa Temple (@HartlandEYFS).
• “You will make mistakes. It’s ok. Find someone you can go to and always ask questions.” -Jessie Falco (@JessieFalco).
• “Build relationship with your Ss, build that class community first few weeks. The rest will come honestly.” -Catherine D (@Catherine_D2013).
• “Just take a deep breath, put a huge smile on, and truly love and care about the kids! They will do the rest 😉 AKA learn!” -Cassandra L. Stewart (@Cass_Stewart).
• “Never forget that each student is an individual person that you need to connect with. It’s all about the relationships. :)” -Bonnie Long (@BonnieTLong).
• “The students are more nervous! The students who are the hardest to love need it the most! Fake it til you make it!” -Jane McMahon (@janemcmahon2).
• “Be transparent/honest… they’ll love you for it (and kids can smell a phony from a hundred yards away)!” -Suzette P. Golden (@GoldenSuzette).
• “Your PLN has got your back! Oh, and wash your hands, a lot. :-)” -Geoffrey Winship (@medialitguy).
• “Building genuine relationships is the heart of effective teaching.” -Felecia Young (@FITinEDU).
• “Keep in your desk-ibuprofen, cold medicine (pill form), hand wipes & never leave home w/o a water bottle & snacks!” -Jocelyn Sanders (@jocelynmsanders).
• “Remember if something isn’t working in your classroom, change it!” -Helen Wilt (@HelenWilt). 
• “Choose a few things to really focus in on. You won’t and can’t do it all, make what you do really matter.” -John Mason (@jhnmason).
• “Don’t be afraid to FAIL (First Attempt in Learning) – Best lessons come from what didn’t work the first time!” -Barbara Clouser (@SraClouser).
• “It will be ok. You will make mistakes.” -Patrick Goff (@BMSscienceteach).
• “Start day 1 w/smile, greet Ss, build relationships, reflect, and keep breathing! It will be okay.” -Rachelle Poth (@Rdene915).
• “It’s ok to say “I don’t know”.” -Andrea Jones (@realistech).
• “Make learning fun and engaging and establish a good rapport with every individual.” -Scott Threlfall (@Proftutrunshaw). ‏
• “Love the kids you teach. Always seize the opportunity to make a difference in your students lives. Don’t procrastinate.” -Eric Ampah (@ericampah).
• “There’s too much to do/know/understand the first year. Give yourself permission not to know. Ask questions!” -Dawn Davis (@D4wnDavis).
• “Take your time and get to know your S’s. Build a relationship with them and they will do wonders for you!” -Grace Salguero (@gracesalguero).
• “Holding a basketball doesn’t = Jordan. Learn & be inspired by rockstar T’s but give yourself a break. You’re learning!” -Maria Mayer (@miamayer).
• “Make strong connections with students and school community from get-go & everything else will fall into place.” -Toni Strickland (@tonirstrickland).
• “You are working with a class of many different learners/ Do not try the one-size-fits-approach/ so many learning styles!” -Seema (@PreFirstRocks).
• “Make sure you’re having a good time; be a real person; don’t try to be the one who knows everything; find out what S’s know.” -Diane Main (@Dowbiggin).
• “Stay true to yourself; Authenticity works best. Remember you are the captain, don’t let anyone or anything break you!” -NDReigns (@NDReigns).

So, with the tips there seem to be trends: ask questions, you’ll make mistakes, and ultimately- it’s all about the students. Do your best and you will succeed. 🙂 Best of luck to all of us who are “newbies” and thank you to those of you who I consider to be mentors. 🙂 You rock!

-Lyndsay

Tips for Pre-Service Teachers who Want to be Teacher Leaders

To start off this post, I want to state that I am by no means an expert on the topic of teacher leadership. What I can tell you, is that I have worked diligently to prove that pre-service teachers can make a difference and that you can, too! This cause is near and dear to my heart. My passion is to help my students develop a lifelong love of learning, a sense of curiosity, and to love and believe in their own selves. I am also incredibly passionate about empowering others and the #kyedvolution movement. I figured with all of this passion, it was time to finally write down what runs through my brain!

So, here’s what I’ve learned thus far. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather what’s worked for me. There’s no real rhyme or reason to this list, other than that the goal is to help other pre-service teachers get out there and do what we set out to do- make a difference. Additionally, I want to caution you that this post will not be full of fancy language. I’m going to talk to you, the reader, as my friend. That is what I consider you on this wonderful, crazy journey. 🙂

1. DO NOT BE AFRAID!!– If you get nothing else out of this post, I would tell you to not be afraid to speak up, to try something new, or to be yourself. Is it scary, sure, but only because you’re doing something new; however, I can promise that it will be so worth the effort.

2. Speak up and speak your mind!– Your voice and brain are two of the most powerful tools you possess. If you have an idea, refer to #1 on this list. You are worthy of being not just heard, but also listened to and respected. You never know what could happen if you try.

3. Sign-up for PDs/Conferences– Is everything going to apply to you as a pre-service teacher, no, but you will learn so, so much! That, and you will meet many wonderful teachers/administrators/parents/etc. I attended #KYTALK15 and finally met so much of my PLN (professional learning network). It was amazing. There are so many practical tips I learn every time I attend PD/Conferences. Without them, I would not have as many of the resources I do now.

4. Get yourself on Twitter- I started Twitter this winter and it has been a life-changer. Before joining, I always thought Twitter was for teenagers and celebrities. I will now admit that I was incredibly mistaken! Twitter is a wonderland for teachers. I would say one of the best things I’ve done to prepare for the classroom would be Twitter chats. I credit #kyedchat and #TeacherFriends for helping me immensely in not only my classroom practices, but also in believing in my abilities as a teacher. So, if any of you reading are from either of those chats, thank you!!! I appreciate all of you more than you know.

5. Consider working as a paraeducator, substitute, or as a school volunteer.- I can not stress enough the importance of getting your name and face “out there”. The experience I have gained this year as an ELL para is something I will never, ever forget. I feel beyond blessed to have had such a wonderful lead teacher guiding me and allowing me to spread my wings, to have worked with an amazing staff, and for my students and their parents. It was an amazing year. I especially loved that my position allowed me to explore multiple grade-levels on a daily basis. I was able to explore grades 1-5 and see what each grade’s curriculum looked like as the year progressed. It was real-life, real-world experience that no class or book could ever teach me. With that being said, get yourself into the classroom and gain experience.

6. Listen, listen, listen-  In working in many different grades with multiple teachers, I received a great deal of advice and hints. I made connections and was able to learn so much! While I do advise speaking up, sometimes it is better to listen and truly learn from others. Remember, you never want to be the smartest person in the room. You always want to be learning; so, keep your ears tuned in to what your mentors are saying.

7. Put yourself out there and take charge of your future- Take advantage of opportunities that come your way! It is certainly okay to say no if you do not think that something will be beneficial, but don’t dismiss something just because you don’t feel like it. Being lazy will get you nowhere! Take a risk and try something new. Even if it is something crazy, like being interviewed live for anyone who wanted to view in the entire world. Let me tell you, interviews were much less scary after that experience. If I hadn’t tried new things such as EdCamps, Twitter and Twitter chats, conferences, becoming a para, etc., I would not be ready to enter the classroom, let alone writing this post. Get out there alr8. Find people who support you- This has been my saving grace throughout my journey as a pre-service teacher. I have been so fortunate to be able to have built so many relationships with others in the field of education. These people build me up when I need it most, and for that I am eternally grateful. I know that within my building there are multiple people I can go to for advice and never have to feel dumb or as if I am a bother. I can jump on Twitter and ask my PLN for some tips and receive almost instant feedback. Outside of education, I am so thankful for my friends and family. Support is necessary to your success as a teacher, plain and simple. Once again, reach out and build connections.

9. Ask for help when you feel overwhelmed-  Being/feeling overwhelmed is normal! When this happens, ask for help! There is no shame in reaching out to others. Doing everything yourself is not only exhausting, it’s honestly a little ridiculous. Being independent is wonderful, but teaching is a collaborative profession. That’s why those connections are so important. Also, be sure to return the favor to others. We all can get by with a little help from our friends.

10. Become a part of the leadership movement- This is something that I have recently become super passionate about. We, as teachers/pre-service teachers, have the opportunity to make a difference everyday. By joining a teacher leadership movement/initiative, you will be truly empowering yourself and others. If there is no movement in your local area/state, start your own. Be the change!

Like I said, this is by no means an exhaustive list. This is just what I’ve done and I feel that it’s truly helped to prepare me for my future as a teacher. I’m sure once I have my first day in my own classroom, this may change, but I know that if I hadn’t done these things, I would be a completely different person and not nearly as ready and as confident as I am now. If you are a pre-service teacher reading this post, please, reach out! I would love to help you on your journey. After all, we’re all in this together.

-Lyndsay

That One Time I Live-Interviewed for #ptchat and #ntchat

Last night, I did something I would never have ever dreamed I’d be writing about today. I’ll start from the beginning. On Tuesday night, I spoke with a colleague, and the new EL coordinator, Dr. Geniene Delahunty (@GenieneD). She asked me what I was doing Wednesday night at 9. I didn’t have any plans and the next thing I knew, I had said yes to being the interviewee in a mock interview focusing on parent engagement for #ptchat and #ntchat. Part of me thought- what did I just agree to? What if I mess up in front of all these people? Then, I took some time reflect and realized that this would be an opportunity of a lifetime and that I was ready for it!

Wednesday came, and along with it, some nervousness, but also a sense of empowerment. I never thought I’d be picked for something like this, having started tweeting towards the end of January, but I certainly learned that if you make an effort, others will truly notice it. Anyway, (sorry- I am realizing that I type as if I’m talking to a friend) the 9 o’clock hour came and I was ready to go.

I logged onto the Google Hangout and listened to the introductions of people I knew, and many whom I did not. I listened to their explanations of why they felt focusing on questions that address parent engagement was important, the benefits of hiring for dispositions, student and parent voice, and inclusion of multiple groups within interviews. Dr. Jim Detwiler (@JimDetwiler1) discussed how he interviewed based upon dispositions and how parents felt to be involved within the process. It was enlightening to say the least. I learned so much in the first fifteen minutes of the chat, it was amazing!

Then, the interview began. I was asked to talk about my own cultural competency and how that supports engaging diverse families in the community, how I plan to develop a strong family school partnership (communication plan), and a situational question about how I would support a student with breaks in education from Somalia who had come to me in the middle of the year. I focused on discussing the importance of building relationships with all students in order to make sure they feel welcome, wanted, and comfortable. I believe trust is the foundation of success in all relationships. I mentioned attending the Japanese Language Festival within my district and how wonderful it was to engage with my students’ families in an environment that was comfortable for them that also provided the opportunity to learn about their culture.  The questions allowed me to be incredibly transparent and I am thankful for that opportunity.

After being asked these questions, parents were also able to ask me whatever they wanted! I had not experienced this before, within an interview, and certainly welcomed the opportunity. It gave me insight as to what parents wanted within a teacher and their expectations of a teacher, which I was able to specifically ask parents about later in the chat. Some of the questions I was asked include: how would you best provide support for students with special needs, what are your strengths and how will you contribute to the team, how do your build your PLN so that you keep learning, have a support system, and stay invigorated, and how do you increase transparency to engage everyone on the same page? For these questions, I emphasized how important it is to build partnerships with parents/guardians. I want to learn whatever parents and other teachers are willing to teach me so I can support all learners. Everyone matters in my classroom and I want my students and their families to be able to feel that from our first interaction. I also mentioned that it is of the utmost necessity to be transparent and genuine in order to build real relationships.

All in all, as you can probably tell, it was an intense, but a great experience. I felt like I was truly able to learn so much and that I could understand how passionate parents are about their children. I also learned how to focus my attention on building these relationships and what other parties want from a new teacher.

I received kudos for knowing that it is okay to reach for resources and knowing that it is okay to ask for help. Another parent, Toni Wade (@ToniTonilynne1), said she would gladly have her children be in my class. I think that was the best compliment/feedback I ever could have hoped to receive! Additionally, Lisa Dabbs (@teachwithsoul) explained to me, and everyone else watching, that we should feel comfortable, as a teacher, to say that, no- I cannot do it all. She emphasized that we should pick what we are passionate about and go for it. It is important to not spread ourselves too thin. She also reminded viewers and myself to make sure to interview the school/district as well. It is important that both parties find the best fit in order to better chances for success. Finally, Julie Pile (@juliepile) gave advice that teachers should not be afraid to ask parents and the community to help, especially with mentoring and career exploration, as some parents may be afraid of curriculum type tasks.

As I said, this experience was so informative and wonderful! I wish I could explain just how much insight I received and how grateful I am to have been asked to be the interviewee, but there are truly no words. So- thank you, thank you, thank you to #ptchat, #ntchat, @Joe_Mazza, @GenieneD, @JimDetwiler1, @teachwithsoul, @juliepile, @Elle_Gifted, @sarahdateechur, @kmw1094, and all who were a part of this experience! It is something I will never forget.

If you care to watch the archived video, here is the link: https://goo.gl/LqyU4S

Warning, there might be some skipping! 🙂

-Lyndsay

What Do You Value?

Have you ever sat down and thought about what you value? Well, today’s the day! By defining what I value, I know it will help propel me towards success.

I value high achievement for ALL students. I want to help my students become engaged and empowered learners. My students will work hard, communicate effectively, and think both critically and creatively. I will communicate high expectations and will do anything and everything to support them as they reach their full potential. I will create partnerships with parents in order to better support them and to create a community of support and empowerment.

I value collaboration. By collaborating, one is able to discover so much! I have discovered so much by branching out and trying new things, such as Twitter to collaborate. I will collaborate with students, co-workers, administrators, parents, and community members. I want to build partnerships that will add to the educational journey and benefit all parties.

I respect and value human differences. I love to celebrate diversity in all of its aspects. I will provide and promote a safe environment for all of my students to learn and to be able to love who they are as individuals. My classroom will be a place where we value different cultures, experiences, and cultures. It will be a safe place where everyone is encouraged to be who they are.

I value excellence in teaching. I am passionate about teaching. I will provide rewarding, real-world, and dynamic learning experiences for my students. I will do so by building a foundation of trust and mutual respect with my students. I will take the time to learn about my students and their families. I will build strong relationships with my students, their families, and the faculty/staff of the school. I will collaborate with all parties. I will be a life-long learner who remains passionate about my students and their education.

I value compassion, integrity, leadership, change and innovation, determination and commitment, cooperation, teamwork, and open communication.

What do you value? How are you going to make it happen?

-Lyndsay