This semester, I have a college student spending a few days a week in our classroom as part of her coursework. Once the idea of a distance learning period became a reality, I gave her a call to let her know our school’s plan. Her response was spot on, “This is so wild!” I replied, …
Author Archives: creedjw
Woah, We’re Halfway There
Christmas break is always such a nice time to slow down the pace, spend some time with friends and family, and recharge for the new year. In a school setting, this is often a necessary time to refresh for the second semester. Once the second semester starts back, however, it doesn’t wait for anyone to …
Oh, Snap!
Christmas is in ___ days?! No matter the number that happens to complete that sentence when you’re reading this post, it always seems to bring about some excitement. In addition to the excitement, especially in an elementary school setting, there inevitably seems to be a certain level of craziness. During the last full week of …
Innovation and Technology
About two weeks ago, I was able to spend the day in Franklin, Tennessee. While at Battle Ground Academy, a few of my colleagues and I attended the TAIS Innovation and Tech Institute. This event opened with a keynote speaker followed by several blocks of engaging sessions surrounding innovation and technology. Each session presented a …
No, You Choose
As I’ve alluded to in a few previous posts, professional growth and development is something I have learned to highly value and appreciate. I also love the opportunity to work with other educators who feel the same way. When teachers are consistently looking for opportunities to improve students’ experiences, the outcomes always seem to benefit …
Hallway Professional Development
One of the things I appreciate most about the administration of Brainerd Baptist School is the commitment to professional development. Whether it’s modeling from the top, designating the necessary funds within the budget, or the consistent mindset of improvement that brings this to life, the culture among the faculty is one of growth and progress. …
It’s Not You – It’s Me
Most educators understand the importance of promoting a welcoming environment, especially when new students are adjusting to their classroom. There are plenty of ways to ensure students feel that sense of ease as they enter the room each day. Promoting the idea of our classroom and your classroom creates a mindset of ownership within the …
Let the Games Begin
We’ve been in school for about a month now, and students (and teachers) are getting adjusted to the new school year. At Brainerd Baptist School, our fourth and fifth graders are challenged with a full daily schedule. Whether it’s cooking or P.E., music or STEM, language or library—students find themselves in unique learning experiences each …
Our House
This school year, fourth and fifth grade students will take part in an altogether new experience at Brainerd Baptist School. In addition to the many aspects of student life that make their final years at our (K-5) school special, these students will be the first to participate in the House System at BBS. The House …
We’ve Never Done That Before
One of my favorite things about my school and the team I get to work with is their openness to new ideas. Their willingness to pursue new adventures that add to our students’ experience is so refreshing, and it pushes me to seek opportunities for improvement to our school’s overall program. This, of course, would …