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The Blog


Social Emotional Learning Strategies Teachers Can Use Today
Teachers know that strong academics don’t happen in isolation. Students learn best when they feel emotionally safe, connected, and confident. That’s why more educators are looking for practical social-emotional learning strategies in the classroom that can be implemented immediately, without adding hours of prep or planning.
Dianne McKinley
Jun 243 min read


How to Promote Social Emotional Learning in the Classroom
More than ever, students need supportive learning environments where they feel understood, valued, and equipped to manage the ups and downs of daily life. That’s why social-emotional learning in the classroom has become essential—not as an add-on, but as a foundation for strong academics, healthy relationships, and long-term success.
Dianne McKinley
Jun 33 min read


Supporting the Whole Child: Connecting Social-Emotional Learning, MTSS, and Classroom Management
Student success isn’t just about test scores — it’s about developing the whole child. That means addressing academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs in a coordinated way. Across the country, schools are finding that Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and classroom management are three essential pillars that, when integrated, create thriving learning environments. When teachers and leaders align these elements, students not o
Dianne McKinley
Feb 43 min read


Building Strong Classrooms: How Behavior Management and Curriculum Support Work Together
Classrooms are the heartbeat of schools — where instruction, engagement, and relationships all come together. But building strong classrooms requires more than just great lessons; it also requires effective systems for behavior management, aligned curriculum, and meaningful assessment practices
Dianne McKinley
Jan 73 min read


Student Motivation: Can't Do vs. Won't Do
Before assuming non-compliance, gather comprehensive evidence about the student's abilities. This step requires careful observation and documentation:
Has the student successfully completed similar tasks before?
Was the task completion consistent and fluent?
Did they demonstrate mastery multiple times?
Can they complete the task in different settings or with different people?
Do they show consistent performance across similar assignments?
Dianne McKinley
Dec 8, 20253 min read


Practical Strategies for Integrating AI and Machine Learning into the Classroom
Artificial intelligence (AI) & machine learning are no longer futuristic concepts. They are already transforming industries, from healthcare to entertainment, & are becoming essential skills for students to learn. But how can high school educators introduce these concepts in a way that is engaging & accessible? Practical strategies are shared for integrating AI & machine learning into the classroom, along with easy-to-understand lessons & resources to help teachers introduce
Dianne McKinley
Nov 17, 20254 min read


From Chaos to Calm: Creating Classrooms That Support Every Learner
If your classroom management routine isn’t working well for you, rethinking your space may make a huge difference. And, even if management isn’t an issue for you, it’s good to stop mid-year, step back and view your space anew as you consider these top five markers of supportive classroom environments:
Dianne McKinley
Nov 10, 20255 min read


4 Ways to Make Entrance and Exit Tickets Matter
With just a few intentional shifts, entrance and exit tickets can become powerful tools for real-time instructional decisions. When used well, they help you teach responsively and strategically—without adding more stress to your day.
Here are four practical ways to make entrance and exit tickets truly work for both you and your students.
Dianne McKinley
Nov 3, 20253 min read


Developing High Ability Curriculum with Depth and Complexity:
Concept-Based Instruction: Building Units with Depth and Complexity, which emphasizes designing units that promote both rigor and relevance, while focusing on thinking over task completion and transfer over recall.
Dianne McKinley
Oct 27, 20254 min read


Let’s Talk About “Turn and Talk”:
3 Smart Shifts for More Purposeful Peer Dialogue
Dianne McKinley
Sep 29, 20253 min read


Family Engagement:
6 Low-Cost, Low-Stress, Family Events Your Community Will Love
Dianne McKinley
Sep 15, 20253 min read


Beyond Suspension:
Suspensions are a big problem.This challenging reality underscores why it's crucial for educators and administrators to delve into the complexities of student suspensions and collaborate on effective solutions, especially when the current situation feels overwhelming.
Dianne McKinley
Sep 8, 20254 min read


The Power of Repair: Shifting from Punitive to Restorative in Schools
Across the country, schools are making a powerful shift from punitive discipline to restorative practices and the results are transformative. Research shows that schools using restorative approaches see fewer behavioral issues, stronger relationships, and improved school climate. But the true power of this shift lies in what students are learning: how to communicate, resolve conflicts, build empathy, and take ownership of their actions.
Dianne McKinley
Sep 1, 20252 min read


Making Data-Driven Decisions in MTSS
Whether you're working in an elementary, middle, or high school setting, there are key ways to bring data-driven decision-making to life in your MTSS work.
Dianne McKinley
Aug 25, 20253 min read


Back-to-School Guide: Top 5 Ways to Build a Positive Digital Environment
Here are five focus areas for fostering a positive digital environment in your classroom.
Dianne McKinley
Aug 18, 20252 min read


Why Restorative Practices Begin with the Adults
Restorative practices only work when adults lead by example first. If we want schools to be spaces where students feel safe, connected, and accountable, we must first build that same culture among the adults.
Dianne McKinley
Aug 11, 20252 min read


8 Practical Ways to Transform Your Classroom Management
The power of positive interactions in education isn't just a feel-good concept – it's backed by extensive research.
Dianne McKinley
Aug 4, 20252 min read


5 Proven Ways to Build Strong Student Relationships in Your First 30 Days
The first 30 days of school set the tone for the entire year. While lesson planning and classroom setup are crucial, building strong student relationships might be your most powerful tool for classroom success. Research consistently shows that when students feel connected to their teachers, behavioral issues decrease and engagement soars.
Dianne McKinley
Jul 21, 20252 min read


From Hiding to Shining: Strategies to Support Full Participation in Every Lesson
One of the challenges facing educators today is ensuring that all students are active participants in the learning process. We do that through engaging hands-on activities, as well as through thoughtful class discussions. But, what do you do when you call on a student - even one with a hand raised - and you get one of these responses:
“I forgot.”
“I don’t know.”
“Um.”
No child learns by opting out!
Dianne McKinley
Jun 30, 20253 min read


Building Better Behavior
Creating effective classroom behavior expectations can feel overwhelming. While most educators understand the importance of solid classroom management, establishing rules that actually work requires a strategic approach. Here are six proven steps to transform your classroom management experience.
Dianne McKinley
Jun 23, 20252 min read
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