dawnmeyer's blog

Educators, policymakers and parents recognize the instructional value of small class size.  Yet, small class size isn’t primarily about the lower number of students in a classroom, but the increased quality of learning that takes place. 

Student engagement is not a new idea ... and we are constantly seeking the most effective methods in order to increase student achievement.  We may now know what that method is.

Does the dialogue in your classroom or home promote a growth mindset?  Why does it matter?

Parent and family involvement is considered a crucial factor in student achievement.  Often it is the role of the teacher or school administrator to promote practical ways that parents and family members can support educational endeavors.  Education World posted nearly 50 ways parents can be actively engaged in their childs education - from school-sponsored math night to

"Knowledge, not taxes, can best increase equality."  Dr.

Does your dream classroom include cooperative and engaged students who are eager to learn?  Do you endeavor to balance each student's instructional need with any emotional, social or academic concerns?  If you are like the majority of classroom teachers, you know that all of your students possess intelligence, but they may struggle with tapping its full potential.  A fully engaged classroom of students is achievable - the key is to activate the brain!

High-yield instructional strategies that engage all students is the focus of the majority of our training programs and at the core is research conducted by Dr. Robert Marzano.  Many of you have experienced one of Dr. Mulligan's presentations about Marzano's nine identified instructional strategies ... but, did you know that even before those, Marzano identified seven classroom strategies that allow teachers to work effectively in the classroom?  They are:

There is no denying that classroom instruction - especially in secondary schools - just can't be approached using the same methods from years past.  Students are surrounded with technology and social media capability - often carrying a means to connect right in their pocket! 

The US Department of Education provides a list of resources to promote reading and spelling skills and strategies.  The various websites target children from preschool and beyond.  Parents and teachers can benefit from the wealth of material offered via these resources.  Are you already using any of these promoted resources?  Which do you find to be the most beneficial?

A teacher asks questions all day, but are those questions effective?  Do you, as a teacher, routinely dig deeper into student thinking?