Archives September 2024

Hannah Karcinell

Introducing Hannah Karcinell: New Brand Ambassador for Promoting Positive Racial Teacher-Student Classroom Relationships

We are thrilled to welcome Hannah Karcinell, MPP, as the newest brand ambassador for the course “Promoting Positive Racial Teacher-Student Classroom Relationships.” With an impressive background in policy, activism, and education, Hannah brings a wealth of experience and passion to this vital role.

About Hannah Karcinell

Hannah is currently a Visiting Fellow at the Western Massachusetts Policy Center, where she continues to shape conversations on policy and activism. She has consistently advocated for diversity and inclusion in various capacities throughout her career. From mentoring peers as a Diversity Fellow at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, to her research and grassroots work at TurnUp Activism and Clean Water Action, Hannah has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to equity and social justice.

Her extensive experience includes civic engagement, activism research, and public policy work. Whether it was organizing events with the founders of Change the Ref or advocating for crime survivors at the Crime Survivors for Safety & Justice convention, Hannah has continuously pushed for meaningful change.

A Champion for Educational Equity

Hannah’s journey in education is equally impressive. During her time as a Diversity Fellow for Remedying Inequity through Student Engagement (RISE), she mentored students from marginalized backgrounds, ensuring they were aware of the resources available to them. This experience provided her with deep insights into the challenges that students of color face in educational environments and the crucial role that positive teacher-student relationships play in fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

In her new role as a brand ambassador, Hannah will be an advocate for the “Promoting Positive Racial Teacher-Student Classroom Relationships” course, which equips educators with the tools they need to create more equitable and inclusive classrooms. With her background in activism and diversity, she is well-suited to help educators understand the importance of fostering strong, positive relationships with students from all racial backgrounds.

Hannah’s Vision for the Course

Hannah is passionate about ensuring that every educator has the resources to cultivate classrooms where students feel seen, heard, and respected. “I’m excited to represent this course because I believe it’s essential to create educational spaces where all students can thrive. Strong teacher-student relationships are the foundation for equitable education,” she says.

Through her role as a brand ambassador, Hannah will work with teachers, principals, and school districts to raise awareness about the course and encourage participation. Her deep understanding of activism, policy, and educational equity makes her an ideal ambassador for this important cause.

Looking Ahead

We’re excited to see the impact that Hannah Karcinell will have as she takes on this new role. By helping educators foster positive, inclusive relationships with their students, Hannah will play a key role in shaping the future of equitable education.

Contact Hannah Karcinell

50 Things Teachers Should Avoid During Back-to-School Night

50 Things Teachers Should Avoid During Back-to-School Night

Back-to-School Night is a critical event for teachers, students, and parents. It’s the perfect opportunity for teachers to set the tone for the year, showcase their classroom, and build strong relationships with families. However, even with the best intentions, there are many things that can go wrong. To help ensure a smooth and successful Back-to-School Night, here are 50 things that teachers should avoid when preparing for and hosting the event.

1. Not Preparing in Advance: One of the biggest mistakes teachers make is waiting until the last minute to prepare for Back-to-School Night. A lack of preparation can result in disorganization and confusion.

2. Ignoring Parent Communication: Make sure to send out reminders and details about the event well in advance. Clear communication will help ensure that parents attend and know what to expect.

3. Overcomplicating the Presentation: Your presentation should be concise and clear. Avoid making it too long or technical, as parents may become overwhelmed with information.

4. Skipping a Rehearsal: Don’t skip rehearsing your presentation. Practice will help you refine your timing and delivery, making the evening run more smoothly.

5. Forgetting to Decorate: A welcoming classroom environment makes a positive impression. Don’t leave your classroom undecorated—bright visuals and displays can help parents feel more comfortable.

6. Not Displaying Student Work: Showcase your students’ efforts with art, projects, or other displays. Empty walls can make the classroom feel uninviting.

7. Using Outdated or Irrelevant Materials: Make sure all handouts and presentations are updated for the current school year. Using last year’s materials can send the wrong message to parents.

8. Overloading on Jargon: Avoid using too much educational jargon. Parents may not be familiar with technical terms, so keep your language simple and accessible.

9. Neglecting Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of the cultural backgrounds of your students and their families. Avoid materials or references that could alienate or offend parents.

10. Not Testing Equipment: Ensure all technological devices (e.g., projectors, laptops) work properly before Back-to-School Night begins. Technical difficulties can disrupt your presentation.

11. Being Late: Timeliness is key. Arriving late to Back-to-School Night sends the wrong message and can leave parents frustrated.

12. Neglecting to Greet Parents: Make an effort to greet parents as they enter your classroom. A warm welcome sets the tone for a positive interaction.

13. Rushing Through the Presentation: Take your time to speak clearly and at a comfortable pace. Rushing through can make it difficult for parents to follow along.

14. Reading from the Slides: Don’t rely on reading directly from your slides. Engage with parents by making eye contact and summarizing key points.

15. Being Disorganized: Keep your materials organized and your presentation smooth. Fumbling with papers or technology can be distracting.

16. Not Introducing Yourself Clearly: Parents want to know about the person teaching their child. Don’t skip over your personal introduction and teaching philosophy.

17. Skipping Class Rules and Expectations: It’s crucial to explain your classroom rules and expectations for student behavior. Parents need to understand the structure of your classroom.

18. Forgetting to Mention How to Contact You: Be sure to share your preferred method of communication, whether it’s email, phone, or a class app.

19. Overloading with Information: Keep the presentation focused and concise. Too much information at once can overwhelm parents.

20. Neglecting Parent Questions: Allow time for parents to ask questions. Avoid ending the session abruptly without addressing concerns.

21. Not Addressing Classroom Policies: Homework policies, grading systems, and classroom behavior expectations should all be clearly outlined. Avoid leaving parents guessing.

22. Talking Only About Yourself: While it’s important to introduce yourself, remember that the focus should be on the students and what they will be learning throughout the year.

23. Not Offering Handouts: Provide a summary handout so parents can review the key points after the event.

24. Overpromising on Academic Outcomes: Avoid making unrealistic promises about student success. Focus on growth rather than guaranteeing specific outcomes.

25. Being Negative: Keep the conversation positive. Focus on the opportunities for growth and success rather than potential problems.

26. Using Inappropriate Humor: Be careful with humor. Jokes that might seem harmless could come off as offensive or inappropriate to some parents.

27. Over-Explaining the Curriculum: Provide an overview of the curriculum but avoid going into too much detail. Parents don’t need to know every assignment on the first night.

28. Skipping Parent Involvement Opportunities: Parents like to know how they can support the classroom. Don’t forget to explain volunteer or involvement opportunities.

29. Ignoring Special Needs Concerns: Be prepared to address any concerns parents have about their child’s specific needs or accommodations.

30. Neglecting to Personalize the Experience: Avoid giving a generic presentation. Tailor your content to reflect the unique needs and dynamics of your class.

31. Avoiding Common Parent Concerns: Be proactive in addressing typical concerns such as homework expectations, social interactions, or academic support.

32. Skipping Important Resources: Mention key resources available to parents and students, such as tutoring services, extra help, or class apps.

33. Being Dismissive: Avoid brushing off parents’ questions or concerns. Make them feel heard and valued.

34. Talking Down to Parents: Keep the tone respectful and collaborative, without being condescending.

35. Neglecting Cultural Inclusion: Make sure your presentation and materials are culturally inclusive. Avoid alienating any groups.

36. Forgetting Non-English-Speaking Parents: If you have non-English-speaking parents, make accommodations like providing translated handouts or interpreters.

37. Focusing Solely on Student Weaknesses: Emphasize student strengths and achievements, not just areas for improvement.

38. Being Unprepared for Difficult Questions: Anticipate tough questions and be ready with thoughtful responses.

39. Overemphasizing Grades: Grades are important, but don’t make them the only focus. Discuss overall student development and learning.

40. Ignoring Classroom Behavior Management: Address how you will handle behavior issues in the classroom to ease parent concerns.

41. Not Sharing a Clear Schedule: Provide a schedule of important dates, such as projects, field trips, or key events.

42. Not Offering Follow-Up: Be sure to provide parents with a way to follow up with you if they have further questions after Back-to-School Night.

43. Ignoring Feedback: If parents provide feedback, take it into consideration. Ignoring it can harm relationships.

44. Not Keeping Parents Updated: After Back-to-School Night, ensure that parents remain informed about classroom happenings throughout the year.

45. Being Overly Formal: It’s okay to be professional, but don’t be too rigid. Show your personality and be approachable.

46. Skipping a Thank You: Thank parents for taking the time to attend. This simple gesture goes a long way.

47. Neglecting Rapport: Building rapport is key. Use Back-to-School Night to establish a strong relationship with parents.

48. Not Listening to Parent Input: Be open to parent suggestions or concerns about the class or their child.

49. Being Inflexible: If a parent has a specific concern, be willing to meet or discuss the issue further.

50. Becoming Inaccessible: Don’t disappear after Back-to-School Night. Keep communication channels open throughout the year.

By avoiding these 50 pitfalls, teachers can make sure Back-to-School Night is a success for both parents and students.

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