Education

In today’s fast-paced world of education, school superintendents and principals often find themselves juggling numerous tasks, meetings, and responsibilities. With the advent of technology, the temptation to rely on smartphones and digital tools for note-taking and task management has grown exponentially. However, there’s a remarkable productivity hack that … Read More

With an educational background spanning two decades and extensive experience in leadership, having held dual roles as a superintendent and principal since 2009, I am well-prepared to address a range of questions concerning the roles, responsibilities, and intricacies of superintendents within the education system. From overseeing entire districts … Read More

In the aftermath of a major natural disaster, the challenges faced by survivors are immeasurable. Having personally experienced the devastation caused by the Camp Fire in Paradise, CA, I understand firsthand the toll such events can take on individuals and communities. The process of rebuilding lives after losing … Read More

As summer draws to a close and a new academic year begins, schools across the nation prepare to celebrate the significance of art in education. National Arts in Education Week, observed annually starting on the second Sunday in September, and National Arts & Humanities Month, celebrated throughout October, … Read More

As the vibrant days of August unfold, so does a unique awareness campaign: National Crayon Collection Month. It’s a time to appreciate the colorful world that crayons have introduced to our lives, while also acknowledging the environmental impact of these wax wonders. This year’s celebration gains a new … Read More

With energy prices soaring across the country, homeowners are facing higher electricity bills, and no state feels the pinch more than California. In July 2023, the north state’s electricity rate reached an astonishing $0.44 per kWh in Tier 2. For many families, these escalating costs can be a … Read More

As a busy school superintendent/principal/father, my days are often filled with endless responsibilities, juggling the needs of the school, staff, students, and home. Amidst the demanding schedule, I realized that my health was taking a backseat. Determined to make a positive change, I embarked on a weight loss … Read More

Oh, lunchtime at school, it’s like a comedy of errors sometimes. I used to venture into the staff fridge with my homemade salad, all proud and ready to chow down on some healthy greens. But the fridge was like a salad Bermuda Triangle – my lunch would mysteriously … Read More

In the era of advanced technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly sophisticated, permeating various aspects of our lives. One area where AI has made significant strides is in writing, with AI-powered language models capable of generating coherent and convincing content. However, with this rise in AI-generated writing, … Read More

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force in various industries, including education. Its potential impact on schools is undeniable, as it opens up a realm of opportunities to revolutionize the learning experience and empower educators. This article delves into the ways teachers can acquire AI skills, the … Read More

In today’s rapidly evolving world, technology has permeated every facet of our lives, including education. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now making its way into schools, transforming the learning landscape like never before. Educators and students are curious about how AI is being utilized, its advantages and disadvantages, and … Read More

Schools across the United States have implemented early release days as a way to promote teacher collaboration and professional development. While it may seem counterintuitive to release students early, these days provide a valuable opportunity for teachers and staff to work together and improve the quality of education … Read More

In every classroom, there are some thingsThat students do which teachers don’t like or find a nuisance bringsGum, phones, and hoodies – these three are often to blameSo let’s dive in and find out why, and what brings the disdain. In every classroom, certain student behaviors tend to … Read More

Schools across the world use various techniques to block certain websites and games, and limit the content that students can access through school networks. But why do schools block everything? Here are some possible reasons: Why Do Schools Block All Games? Games can be a significant distraction for … Read More

Academic dishonesty has been a growing problem in schools and universities around the world. Cheating undermines the integrity of the educational process, and can have serious consequences for both students and educators. The following are strategies that educators can use to prevent students from cheating using AI technologies … Read More

Are you a new teacher or an experienced educator looking for a new opportunity? As many qualified candidates will be competing for the same positions, it can be challenging to stand out to districts. There are hidden tips to help teachers get hired. This post attempts to answer … Read More

Teacher Appreciation Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to show your favorite teacher how much they mean to you. And what better way to express your gratitude than with a special gift? With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect gift for your … Read More

As a parent, you want the best for your child, and one of the most important decisions you’ll make is when to send your child to school. In the United States, each state sets its own rules and regulations for when children can start school. This post will … Read More

For about 90% of my career, I have served in administration and teacher roles for “basic aid” school districts in California.  Another way to think about a basic aid school district is to consider them “community funded.”  Community funded school districts derive more funds from local property taxes … Read More

Updated 9/5/23: There has been little variance in the amount of weeks in a school year during my past twenty (20) years in education.  In California, there are one-hundred-eighty (180) school days in a school year.  When you divide this number by 5 days in a week, the … Read More

During my 20+ years in education and tenure as superintendent / principal since 2010, music has played an important role in classrooms.  Relaxing music for the classroom sets the mood while teachers expect students to work in groups or complete independent practice.  During my career, I have seen … Read More

Superintendent Provides Easy, Creative, Fun, and Unique Teacher (or School Staff) Lunch Ideas / Solutions / Options Teacher lunch ideas: Organizing potlucks with staff, Instacart deliveries to the school, meal preparation services that deliver, purchasing school lunches, keeping frozen meals on campus, and stockpiling meals that only need … Read More

I have worked with many new teachers over the past 20+ years in education serving as a  superintendent / principal and teacher.  It’s frustrating for new teachers who spent time and money on an education that did not fully prepare them to step into the job on day … Read More

Most advice on this topic seems very basic – mostly telling prospective teachers to practice interview questions and focus on soft skills to land the first teaching job.  While the first page Google results do not give bad advice, it just screams “blogger on assignment.” Close those tabs … Read More

Purchasing a high quality adjustable mobile standing desk has helped me take the show on the road.  By show I mean work on a laptop, and by road I mean classrooms.  In other words, I leave my office with the computer and some basic office supplies then move … Read More

I’m very passionate about improving the educational experience for students and staff.  Oftentimes startups and established businesses have great products and services that could potentially help meet a need but their message gets lost in a massive sea of email.  From personal experience as a school district superintendent, … Read More

School calendars vary by region in the United States. There is an expectation from the community, parents, and some staff for school to start after Labor Day.  This feels like an ingrained cultural norm that is broken year after year with stakeholders wishing schools would just stick to the … Read More