Teachers are always looking for ways to improve their craft and collaborate with colleagues. In the last 4 school years, many of our K-4 teachers have participated in at least 100 hours of professional development through book clubs. Together, we have read and studied 5 education-related books that have focused on curriculum, discipline, technology, and child psychology. The K-4 teachers who participated in these book clubs gained a lot of insight into new and different ways of connecting with our students academically and emotionally.
The first book study in the 2022-2023 school year was on the ever-pertinent topic of the Science of Reading. Our book, “Reading Above the Fray” by Julia Lindsey, describes research-based ideas on teaching young students how to read. The participants of this book study were able to relate the material to what they were seeing in the classroom. The teachers use Orton Gillingham as one of their core curriculums, which provides a solid foundation for phonics and reading skills.
Our second book study took place in the spring of 2023. Our book, “What Happened to You?” by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah was an emotional book that made us understand how trauma affects the way children behave. It was a very powerful and thought-provoking book that made us educators think differently about how our past will shape us in the present and future.
During the 2023-2024 school year, we discussed two books, “Glow Kids” by Nicholas Kardaras and “Hacking School Discipline” by Nathan Maynard & Brad Weinstein. “Glow Kids” was an astounding research-filled resource that discussed screen addiction in our student population. The biggest takeaway from it was the relationship between disorders like ADHD, anxiety, depression, increased aggression and the high usage of screen time.
Our “Hacking School Discipline” read was about using restorative justice practices with our students instead of antiquated school discipline tactics. It was a useful read on how educators can help students be more accountable and responsible for their own actions.
Our current book club has just started this January. We are reading and enjoying “Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline” by Becky Bailey. This book ties perfectly into our school year because Greenville-certified staff members are being trained in Conscious Discipline. Becky Bailey has laid out this book for parents and educators as a manual to turn conflict into cooperation with our students. This book is a guide for adults to model appropriate reactions when their children are not behaving ideally. Becky Bailey includes the 7 powers for self-control, 7 basic discipline skills, and 7 values for living to help ourselves and our children be the best we can be in the everyday setting.
Our Greenville Elementary staff should be commended for taking extra time to learn new and improved ways of helping our student population. These books might not solve all our problems at school, but they instill thoughtful reflection during tough times with students. Good professional development is ongoing, and we will continue to learn through research-based practices and meaningful collaborative discussions between colleagues at our book clubs.
I used to be afraid of socializing because of the thought that they might not like me, but then I realized that I had nothing to be afraid of. Because of the quote “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game” made me realize that I had nothing to lose, so I went for it, and it worked!
The first day of school was a fresh start that felt more like a fresh wave of terror. The summer’s carefree days seemed like a distant dream, replaced by the harsh reality of navigating the social mind-field of high school. The knot of anxiety in my stomach tightened with each passing hallway. My heart thumped a frantic rhythm against my ribs, a drum solo of dread. Every locker slam, every burst of laughter, felt like a judgment, a verdict on my worthiness. The hallways of the school, once a place of promise and possibility, now felt like a place of nightmare and terror. Every corner, every doorway, seemed to echo with whispers of disapproval, a chorus of “not being good enough.” The faces of my classmates swam before me, a kaleidoscope of potential critics. Their eyes, I imagined they were judging my clothes, my hair, my every move, desperately trying to convey my worth through awkward gestures and smiles. The fear of not being liked, of being ostracized, of being invisible. The desire to fit in, to be accepted, to be part of the group, gnawed at me like a persistent hunger. It was primal fear, a deep-seated need for belonging that felt as powerful as gravity. I realized that the fear of socializing was holding me back from doing things I love. It wasn’t socializing that was scary, but the fear of what others might think.
The only way to achieve my goals was to take risks. Now I am more willing to step outside of my comfort zone and try new things, even if it means risking failure. I have learned the rewards of playing the game. Even if you do not win, it is far greater than the comfort of staying on the sidelines. I will continue to seek out new challenges and opportunities, even if they seem daunting. I know that the fear of striking out is a natural part of life, but it should not stop me from playing the game.
I have explored the power of “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” This belief has been a guiding principle of my life, pushing me to embrace challenges and pursue my passion even when fear whispers doubt. Through my experiences, I’ve learned that the greatest rewards often come from stepping outside our comfort zone and taking risks, even if it means facing the possibility of failure. We all face moments of doubt and hesitation, where the fear of failure threatens to hold us back. But the quote reminds us that the journey is just as important as the destination. The lessons we learn from our failures are often more valuable than the triumphs we achieve.
So, I encourage you to embrace the game of life with courage and determination, knowing that even if you strike out, you will gain invaluable experience and grow stronger in the process. The fear of failure is a powerful reminder that the greatest reward often comes from taking risks and pursuing dreams, even if it means facing the possibility of disappointment. So, I urge you to step onto the field of life with confidence and courage, knowing that even if you stumble, you will have the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve your goal.
High school is an exciting time, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and social interaction. However, it can also be overwhelming, stressful, and isolating for many students. Unfortunately, depression is a reality that affects more high school students than we may realize.
What Is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling sad or down for a few days. It’s a mental health condition that can make everyday tasks seem impossible. It’s characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed. This can lead to changes in sleeping patterns, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
Common Causes of Depression in High School Students
Academic Pressure With college looming and grades becoming increasingly important, the pressure to perform can lead to overwhelming stress and anxiety.
Social Struggles Navigating friendships, relationships, and social status during these years can be tough. Bullying, feeling left out, or not fitting in can intensify feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
Family Expectations Many students face immense pressure from their families to succeed, meet high expectations, or follow a particular path. When you feel like you’re not living up to these expectations, it can significantly affect your mental health.
Hormonal Changes Adolescence brings not only physical changes but also emotional fluctuations. These natural hormonal changes can sometimes contribute to mood swings or more serious emotional struggles.
Recognizing the Signs of Depression
It’s important to know the signs of depression, whether it’s for yourself or someone you care about. Some common symptoms include:
Persistent sadness or a low mood.
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
Fatigue or low energy levels.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little).
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to reach out for help.
Coping with Depression
Talk to Someone One of the most important steps is reaching out for support. Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member, school counselor, or teacher, talking about what you’re going through can provide relief and guidance.
Seek Professional Help Therapy or counseling is a great way to address depression. Mental health professionals can help identify the root causes of depression and provide tools and strategies to manage it.
Stay Connected Even if it feels hard, try to stay connected with friends, family, or extracurricular activities. Isolation can often make depression worse, so being around others can provide a sense of belonging.
Take Care of Your Physical Health Exercise, sleep, and nutrition play a huge role in mental well-being. Even taking a short walk, eating a balanced meal, or ensuring you get enough sleep can improve how you feel mentally.
Avoid Negative Coping Mechanisms It may be tempting to cope through unhealthy behaviors, such as skipping meals, substance use, or withdrawing from loved ones. While these may feel like quick fixes, they can lead to more harm in the long run.
You Are Not Alone
If you’re dealing with depression, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and that there is help available. High school can be a challenging time, but reaching out for support can make a world of difference. Don’t hesitate to seek out resources at your school or within your community — you deserve to feel better, and help is out there.
Being a high school athlete is no easy feat. It requires a unique blend of passion, discipline, and time management to excel both on the field and in the classroom. For many, sports are more than just a hobby — they’re a lifestyle.
The Commitment
From early-morning practices to late-night games, athletes dedicate countless hours to improving their skills. Balancing this with homework, exams, and social life can feel overwhelming at times, but it’s also a source of personal growth. The time management skills that athletes develop often prepare them for challenges beyond high school.
The Challenges
In addition to physical training, high school athletes must maintain their academic performance. This requires planning ahead, staying organized, and sometimes making sacrifices. Whether it’s studying on the bus during away games or working on assignments before practice, athletes learn to prioritize and make the most of their time.
Teamwork and Friendships
One of the most rewarding aspects of being an athlete is the relationships built along the way. Playing on a team teaches valuable lessons about collaboration, communication, and leadership. Teammates often become like family, sharing in both the victories and the defeats.
The Benefits
Beyond physical fitness, being involved in sports offers mental and emotional benefits. It can boost self-confidence, relieve stress, and provide a sense of accomplishment. For some, athletics can even open doors to college scholarships or future careers in sports.
Finding Balance
While the demands on high school athletes are high, finding balance is key. Setting goals, managing time wisely, and asking for support when needed are crucial to staying on top of things. It’s also important to take time for rest and recovery to avoid burnout and injury.
Final Thoughts
The life of a high school athlete is full of highs and lows, but for those who truly love their sport, it’s all worth it. The lessons learned, both on and off the field, shape athletes into more resilient, hardworking, and determined individuals. For many, these experiences will carry forward into whatever path they choose in life.
High school can feel like a rollercoaster ride — filled with excitement, challenges, and more than a few late nights. Between juggling homework, extracurriculars, and maybe even a part-time job, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry! Here are some simple tips to help you stay on top of things and enjoy your high school experience.
1. Stay Organized
Keeping track of assignments, projects, and tests can be tough. Invest in a planner or use a digital calendar to stay organized. Write down deadlines, make to-do lists, and set reminders for important tasks. When you can see what’s coming up, it’s easier to plan ahead.
2. Prioritize Your Time
We all have 24 hours in a day, but how you use them makes all the difference. Prioritize your tasks based on what’s most important. Homework and studying should come first, but don’t forget to carve out time for self-care, hobbies, and hanging out with friends.
3. Ask for Help
Struggling with a subject or feeling stuck on an assignment? Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Teachers, friends, or even online resources are there to support you. High school is a time to learn, and it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away.
4. Get Involved
High school is about more than just academics. Joining clubs, sports teams, or volunteering can help you discover new interests and meet people with similar passions. It’s also a great way to boost your college applications or future resumes.
5. Stay Positive
It’s normal to feel stressed or overwhelmed sometimes, but try to keep a positive mindset. Remember, high school is a journey, not a race. Take things one step at a time, and don’t be too hard on yourself when things don’t go perfectly.
Final Thoughts
High school is a unique time in your life — it’s a chance to learn, grow, and create lasting memories. By staying organized, prioritizing your time, and getting involved, you’ll be on the path to success. And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the ride!
