Check Yo Self: A Plea for Self-Editing
Well-chosen words influence worlds. They move governments, shape wars, and stir hearts. Conversely, a haphazard approach to words negates potential impact. Dull […]
We Are Enough: Tips on Classroom Management
The summer before my first teaching job, my uncle Gus gave me permission to use his “perfect” first day of school technique […]
Community Circles: Strengthening Individual and Schoolwide Relationships through Restorative Justice Practices
By Jennie Carr and Tammy May Restorative justice practices have been the cornerstone of relationship building and conflict resolution at Lacey Spring […]
The Trauma-Informed Educator: Helping Students and Caring for Yourself
By Kylene Dalton-Koons and Brad VanDenend In schools these days, there is a lot of talk about trauma—and for good reason. According […]
Using a Multi-tiered Approach to Support the Social-Emotional Development of All Students
One of my favorite courses to teach in my role as a school counselor educator is social-emotional development. It’s not that other […]
Smiles at Graduation: A Student Assistance Program Story
The fellowship hall at my church was the last place I expected to be one Sunday night several years ago. We were […]
A Soft Answer
Take one apprehensive student-teacher in 1963, bred and raised in the almost all-white, at the time, Christian day-school system in Grand Rapids, […]
Spiritual Humility: Learning to Manage While Managing to Learn
Many people experience a defining moment that shapes what they will become. While I was teaching at an urban alternative high school, […]
To Expel, or Not to Expel—That Is the Question
Teachers and administrators in Christian schools face any number of issues that make teaching very difficult. In my experience, one issue is […]
Beyond Control
Bandstra, Alan. Beyond Control: Heart-Centered Classroom Climate and Discipline. Sioux Center, IA: Dordt College Press, 2014. “Finally, the spirit behind our actions […]