How to Prepare for a Substitute Without Losing a Day of Learning
Preparing for a substitute doesn't have to mean scrambling to create a mountain of plans the night before. The key is preparing your students as much as you prepare your substitute. Learn how I set clear expectations, create step-by-step directions, leave helpful resources, and keep a ready-to-go sub binder so learning can continue even when I'm not in the classroom.
How I Teach My Students to Study for Math Tests (Instead of Just Telling Them to “Study”)
Teaching students how to study for math tests is an important skill that often gets overlooked. Learn how to help middle school math students study smarter with targeted test review, mistake correction, review stations, and practical study strategies that build independence, confidence, and stronger math study habits.
The First-Day Activity That Tells Me Everything I Need to Know About My Students
Start the school year with a simple first-day activity that helps middle school teachers learn about their students, build classroom community, and establish expectations. This Notice, Wonder, Assume activity uses sticky notes to encourage student voice, conversation, and connection while giving teachers valuable insight into their new math classroom.
The Growth Mindset System That Changed My Middle School Math Classroom
Discover a simple growth mindset system for middle school math that helps students build confidence, recognize their own progress, and develop perseverance. Learn how a classroom Rockstar Wall, student recognition, math mantras, and goal setting can encourage effort, celebrate growth, and create a positive math classroom culture.
My Favorite Classroom Management System
Looking for an effective classroom management system that keeps students engaged and reduces interruptions? This simple, student-managed classroom routine helps organize help requests, support independent work, encourage student independence, and create a calmer middle school classroom. Discover how the Leave Your Duck system can improve classroom organization, random calling, student engagement, and everyday classroom management routines.