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The Blog


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?
Tracy Harrison
Dec 8, 20253 min read


Supporting Productive Struggle in Reading
In classrooms everywhere, teachers face a tough decision: when students struggle with a text, should we lower the Lexile level to “meet them where they are”? On the surface, it feels compassionate. But lowering the text too far risks keeping students from the very experiences that build reading strength.
✅ The challenge is not whether students can access grade-level texts. The challenge is how we help them get there.
Dr. Wendy Wells
Dec 1, 20253 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.
Angela Snyder
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.
Dr. Brian Scott
Oct 27, 20254 min read


5 Big Benefits to Writing Across the Curriculum
Writing helps students retain knowledge and make stronger connections across content.
In this first post of a 4-part series, I’m breaking down five powerful reasons why daily writing belongs in every K–12 classroom—from reading to music. Whether you're just getting started or ready to take content area writing to the next level, these benefits will show you why it matters.
Kimberly Frahm
Oct 13, 20252 min read


Family Engagement:
6 Low-Cost, Low-Stress, Family Events Your Community Will Love
Susan Bryant
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.
Dr. Reneae Staley
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.
Audrey Lappe
Sep 1, 20252 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.
Betsy Breedlove
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.
Audrey Lappe
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.
Tracy Harrison
Aug 4, 20252 min read


Helping Families Navigate Indiana’s 3rd Grade Retention Law
The recent changes to Indiana’s 3rd grade retention law are prompting important conversations between schools and families.
Dianne McKinley
Jul 24, 20251 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.
Tracy Harrison
Jun 23, 20252 min read


Building Bridges: 3 Ways District Leaders Shape a Positive Culture
A strong, positive culture at the district level ensures that schools are supported, educators feel valued, and students have the resources they need to succeed. By fostering this culture, district leaders create a ripple effect that empowers principals, teachers, and students, making a profound impact—even if the rewards aren’t always immediately visible.
Dr. Wendy Wells
Jun 9, 20253 min read


The Growing Need to Support Multilingual Families
For multilingual families, language loss is a real and pressing concern. How do we create a bridge between languages instead of a barrier?
Amanda Crecelius
May 5, 20254 min read


Empowering Educators: On-Demand Behavior Consulting for Student Success
Student behavior is one of the most pressing challenges faced by schools and youth-serving organizations today. From preschoolers to high school seniors, behavior concerns can disrupt learning, overwhelm staff, and prevent students from reaching their full potential.
Dianne McKinley
Apr 23, 20252 min read


Doing More with Less: Why Special Education Program Evaluation Matters Now More Than Ever
Special education programs are more than just mandated services; they are investments in our students' futures.
Dr. Reneae Staley
Apr 7, 20253 min read


Empowering Educators: Professional Development for Teaching and Leadership
Educator PD offers training and learning to boost knowledge, skills, and effectiveness in teaching and leadership.
Dianne McKinley
Jan 30, 20252 min read


AI in Education: Use It or Risk Falling Behind!
Why educators must embrace AI, how it can be used ethically & effectively, & what steps we should take to prepare students for a AI.
William Reed
Jan 13, 20254 min read


Creating a High Ability Cluster Group: A Practical Approach for Teachers
Understanding High Ability Cluster Grouping
Dr. Brian Scott
Dec 16, 20243 min read
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