Bobbi Gibb wanted to run the Boston Marathon. The problem? Women weren’t allowed to compete in any race longer than…
growth mindset

Very Necessary Brain Break
So my daughter bought an axolotl. Her name is Elvira – the amphibian, not the kid. She’s jet-black and looks…

Free Daily Habit Tracker, Growth Mindset Printable
Happy almost new year! If you’re looking to make a change, this habit tracker worksheet might be just the boost…

A 3-Minute Rant on Teacher Burnout
[Note: You might’ve noticed things look different on the blog. The template I’ve used since 2014 has been “retired” by…

Teaching Theme with Rock, Paper, Scissors
In order to grow more comfortable and confident when discussing theme, students need lots of practice. Early in the year,…

Disability Awareness Bulletin Board
Did you know chart-topping singer Billie Eilish has Tourette Syndrome?Gymnastics superstar Simone Biles takes medication for ADHD? Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympic…

Weird lesson idea for English teachers
Learn what my messed up teeth (and a great podcast episode) taught me about why I judge other people and…

Imagined Life: A Feel-Good Podcast about Failure
Life is hard. Plans fall apart. People disappoint you. And yet… My latest obsession – Wondery’s Imagined Life podcast –…

8 Print & Post Classroom Decor Ideas
Looking for free/inexpensive materials that’ll bring life to drab classroom walls and bulletin boards? (Yes, I’m assuming we’ll have some…

Q&A: Is School Even Important?
Today’s post comes from an email I received from a fellow English teacher. I’m sharing our conversation with her permission…