B. Harris, a number of years ago, stated that there are five phases frequently involved in the implementation of a new program at the school or district level. He states that these phases come in a sequential order, but they often overlap one another.

Phase one, planning and initiation: The purpose of the program is considered, goals are clarified, activities are selected, and resources needed are considered. Interests mounts as individuals involved sense the...

After serving as a teacher educator for the past two years, I have begun to reflect on why student teachers might struggle as they prepare for the profession. Of course, as in other posts, I don’t proclaim to have all the answers. Rather, I hope by writing this, it prompts discussion and further discourse, research, and contemplation—as preparing teachers is a vastly important endeavor.

Student teachers, such as the ones I work with, often carry heavy coursework loads as...

I know what you’re thinking when you read this blog title: What? Loosen up? My students are not focusing, not listening, getting out of their seats—I need to tighten up!

But stay with me. I’d like to share a different perspective, one that involves how we view students’ behavior and interactions in the classroom.

Recently, I had the opportunity to travel with a group of student teachers to Costa Rica for a study abroad program. The itinerary included spending time in public...

Perhaps, you may find this of interest to use with students as a possible reading passage and/or interactive notebook activity.