Whether it’s giggling about an inside joke or daydreaming about after-school activities, every student experiences distraction for one reason or another. While this is normal from time to time, chronic disruption can be a major detriment to both teachers and learners. But consistent, low-level disruption is problematic for classrooms Here’s how ...

Lack of funding can make it difficult for teachers to pursue the learning projects and opportunities they’d like to provide their students. Fortunately, there are a number of national foundations, trusts and corporations that can help fund classroom projects and promote teacher innovation across the country. Whether it’s pursuing a new ...

In many schools, chronically underserved students, such as those from low-income families or ethnic minority backgrounds, continue to underperform while historically privileged students succeed. The underrepresented students typically haven’t had the academic support they need and doubt their own academic capacity. Since teachers have close relationships with students, parents and ...

Volunteering at school is one of the most important ways that parents can influence their child’s learning climate and make a difference in his or her classroom. Whether helping with homework or chaperoning field trips, parental involvement is critical to their child’s overall success and engagement at school. Still, recruiting and ...

In-service meetings are designed to enhance skills, learn about curriculum changes and set personal milestones. Without taking the time necessary to properly plan an agenda, however, these well-intentioned meetings can become a waste of time. Fortunately, identifying the common pitfalls of in-service meetings — and taking a hard look at what ...

Short stories are one of the best ways to introduce students to new themes, units and ideas in an entertaining way. And while we’ve already created a list of our favorite short stories for high school students, it’s time to create a list that’s appropriate for a slightly younger audience. Here’s ...

Podcasts are a compelling tool you can use to advance your skills and obtain inspiration as an educator. From motivational pointers and classroom management tips, to social emotional learning and teacher self-care, there’s an education podcast suited for your every need and desire. To start the spring term on the right ...

In the age of cell phones and social media, capturing attention is more difficult than ever before. And, maintaining student attention once harnessed is an entirely different challenge in itself. But since attention is key to successful learning, this is an obstacle that must be overcome. What can educators do to ...

Whether advocating for minority students, funding low-income schools or helping teachers succeed, nonprofit organizations are a vital force in education. Knowing about these organizations can inspire your work in the classroom and provide you with resources and new ideas that make a difference. Here are 15 nonprofits advocating for teachers, ...