by Steve Reifman, Monthly Columnist The last month of every school year is a bittersweet time. Of course, we are all looking forward to the start of summer vacation and the many activities we may have planned. At the same time, we begin to realize that in a matter of weeks we will no longer
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by Steve Reifman, Monthly Columnist As standardized testing season begins each spring, we can perform a major service for our students by sharing the following four keys to success. Taken together, these tips comprise an effective mental approach to test-taking that values strong focus, thoroughness, and carefulness. Children need to understand that how they go
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by Steve Reifman, Monthly Columnist It was Thursday afternoon, and 24 of my 26 third graders were on pace to meet tomorrow’s writing deadline and have the drafts of their “All About” books on their desks the following morning. Two of my kids, however, didn’t appear to be heeding the friendly daily reminders I had
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by Steve Reifman, Monthly Columnist One of the most valuable teaching moves we can make to help our students become more thoughtful, more self-directed learners is to build reflection activities into our instructional plans as frequently as possible. As educators, it is easy to focus so much attention on the “front-end” aspects of lesson planning,
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by Steve Reifman, Monthly Columnist At the beginning of each school year, it is important for teachers to address the following four priorities. Giving these critical areas the time and emphasis they deserve will pay big dividends for you, your students, and their families.