2019 - Porter Has Class

A Teacher’s Valentine’s Day Surprise

Post published:February 17, 2019
Post category:Stories

There are few sweeter things than receiving a gift from a young child who is only giving through the goodness and innocence of his or her heart. Valentine’s Day occurred this week, and many of you celebrated in your own ways. There are many who can recall vivid memories of Valentine’s during their childhood. Some of you may have even shared that special day with a teacher who you loved so much that you gave them a gift. While many teachers may remember their Valentine’s Day at school as: Others experienced things they will cherish forever. A small percentage experienced…

State of the Union: The Educator’s Rebuttal

Post published:February 10, 2019
Post category:Blog

The State of the Union has finally came and gone. The SOTU postponement, government shutdown, and the always controversial Donald Trump all contribute to the extra attention the address received this year. All of that being said, I am an educator and not a politician. So, what is the State of Education? PEOPLE ARE DISSATISFIED A 2018 Gallup Poll did a public poll showing that 55% of Americans are somewhat or completely dissatisfied with the education their child receives. It has to be teachers’ faults, right? According to that same poll, only 6% feel their child’s teachers are doing a…

The Secret Lives of Teachers – OMG!

Post published:February 3, 2019
Post category:Blog

OMG! Can you believe what he/she did?! Did you hear about (insert teacher name)? The word "secret" used in conjunction with "teacher" brings about the idea of a terrible stereo-type these days. The truth is unless a teacher lives a very dark personal life that it may be difficult to have a secret life while teaching. Let me explain why... Making personal connections with students is a priority for teachers. Students need to know you care. As part of that connection, students become genuinely curious about their teachers. But, what is ok to share with students? How much is ok…

Top Five Habits of Highly Effective Teachers

Post published:January 27, 2019
Post category:Blog

There are some habits that are common among all effective teachers, and in this week's blog, I describe the top five habits of highly effective teachers. I’d like to preface this blog by admitting that I am not a teacher extraordinaire. I have not been awarded any Teacher of the Year awards. However, I do feel I am a very reflective teacher and learn from my mistakes daily. Through my experience, and perhaps my OCDness, I’ve learned an effective teacher needs habits. Habits strengthen your procedures and help you focus on the most important part of your classroom - your…