Welcome to Something to Read, to Watch, to Hear, a monthly newsletter by me, Katie Novak, with a focus on inclusive practices, education news, helpful resources, and life! I'm so glad you're here.
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Onward.
Here are a few things to kick off your week.
📖 Something to Read:
We are a few weeks into the New Year, and if you are of the larger majority, you set goals for yourself for 2024. When it comes to our goals, let's rethink our definition of success. It's not a sprint to a distant finish line; it's more like an ultra marathon with meaningful checkpoints (which is one of my goals this year - 50 miles, here I come!). The furthest I have run is a 50K, so there is much more training to do, but every mile further is a well-deserved celebration. The same applies when implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Use these helpful tips (2.5 min read) to monitor progress as you work toward your long-term ultra-goals.
🔊 Something to Listen to:
Even though teachers are working harder than ever, many students are still struggling to make progress, especially in literacy. There has been so much attention on the science of reading and the importance of early literacy, but writing proficiency is even more problematic and needs our attention. Watch/Listen to this video (1.5 mins) where I sum up some pretty sobering stats about student writing, but then a solution! After watching and listening, if you want to learn more, listen to this episode (14 mins) of The Balance where Catlin Tucker shares why writing belongs in every classroom.
📺 Something to Watch:
A common pushback about UDL is that when students are provided choices, they'll choose the easiest option provided, but it's important to make a distinction between easy and more efficient. Want to know how? Watch my video (2 mins) below and pass it on!
💠Something to Make You Think:
Did you know that January and February see the highest amount of resignations? Take time to consider how you are helping your coworkers feel seen and appreciated.
Find out someone's favorite morning beverage and surprise them with a treat!
Make time to connect and catch up - schedule a walk during a prep period, or meet for a drink after work.
I believe I've won the holidays this year! My 14-year-old son, who works as a busboy, took his money to the mall and bought me a sign. He was thrilled to give it to me on Christmas morning, saying, "It's soooo you, Mom." Take a look at the sign below!
