Rigor doesn’t mean more work, and it doesn’t mean figuring it out on your own without support. It should mean achievement at a level just outside of a student’s ability to do things unaided. Just like temporary building support structures, scaffolds for learners are designed to provide access to rigorous learning for all. We want […]

Chris Norwood, the founding director of the Bay Area Tutoring Association, highlights the impact of tutors, parents, students, community members and business leaders collaborating to invest in the future. He explores the preparation of tutors and the rewards for tutors, students, and the community. Consider what can be accomplished through the development of an academic […]

In moments of disagreement or rising tension, conversations can easily stall or break down. That’s where a verbal skill called “supporting statements” can help. Early in my teacher leadership career, I learned how these statements act as a bridge—keeping the dialogue open and productive. A supporting statement doesn’t necessarily mean agreement; it reflects understanding. It […]

Recently I was conversing with several educators from the same district’s central office team. They shared with me that last spring a decision was made to send all central office staff into the schools six weeks before the state testing date to work with students around common reading skill deficiencies. Teachers identified the students with […]