Effective teaching practices are essential in the teaching of reading. Yesterday I had the opportunity to work with the teachers at the Iris Stubbs Primary School in South Caicos.

In our session, the Fundamentals of Reading Instruction, we focused on understanding The Science of Reading and refreshing our approach to:

• Phonics and Decoding Skills
• Vocabulary Development
• Reading Fluency
• Reading Comprehension

This evening I had the opportunity to speak to the Roteract Club of Providenciales. We explored what it means to have a positive and healthy team dynamic and how they can nurture one within their organization. We had a great evening! All the best Rotaract PLS!

Yesterday I had the pleasure of working with the administration and staff at A. Louise Thomas Garland High School in Providenciales. We spent the morning exploring Team Building for Educators. t’s easy in back-to-school prep to focus on the essentials needed for a dynamic year of teaching and learning…however, we can’t forget the importance of building a positive team dynamic on our teaching staffs.

During our session explored the following topics...and played a few team building games. 

• Understanding Team Development
• Building Cohesion
• Looking Inward - Your Alignment
• The Importance of the First Days
• Synergy

I can already hear the back-to-school rumblings from some of my children (who shall remain nameless!). How is it going in your homes? I know this time of year can be a mix of excitement, nerves, and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos as we all prepare for the school year ahead.

As we approach the first day of school, it’s so important to start easing into those routines that will set our children up for success. The more prepared they feel, the smoother the transition will be—not just for them, but for all of us as well. Establishing routines before the first day can make a world of difference, helping kids adjust to the new schedule and mindset with less stress.

To help you navigate this week, here are five tips to ensure your kids get started on the best foot:

1. Gradually Adjust Sleep Schedules: Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times to align more closely with the school schedule. This gradual shift helps children adapt without the shock of an abrupt change on the first day. A consistent sleep routine ensures they’re well-rested and ready to learn.

2. Set Up a Designated Homework/Study Area: Create a quiet, organized space for your child to do homework or study. Having a dedicated spot free from distractions can help them focus better and develop good study habits from the start.

3. Review Morning and Evening Routines: Go over the morning and evening routines with your kids. Make sure they know what needs to be done each day, from packing their bags to setting out clothes for the next day. Establishing a smooth routine now can reduce morning stress and evening rush.

4. Plan Healthy Lunches and Snacks: Start planning and discussing lunch and snack options with your kids. Involving them in the process can make them more excited about their meals and ensure they have the nutrition they need to stay energized throughout the school day.

5. Talk About Expectations and Goals: Have a conversation with your children about the upcoming school year. Discuss their goals, any anxieties they might have, and what they’re looking forward to. Setting positive expectations and addressing concerns can help them start the year with confidence and a clear mindset.

As we all gear up for the school year, remember that a little preparation can go a long way in making the transition smoother for everyone. Here’s to a successful and stress-free start to the school year!

It’s been a while since we last connected—July was a whirlwind of activity, and August provided a much-needed break to recharge and reflect. As we approach the final week of summer for teachers here in the Turks and Caicos Islands, I wanted to take a moment to reconnect and share some insights as we gear up for the new school year.

Starting a new school year is always a mix of excitement and apprehension. Even if everything isn’t falling perfectly into place, there are several strategies you can use to set a positive tone and ensure a successful beginning. Here are some tips to help you start off the year on the right foot, even if everything isn’t exactly as you would like it to be:
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1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Before stepping into your classroom, take some time to set clear, achievable goals for yourself and your students. These goals can be related to classroom management, academic achievements, or personal development. Having a focused vision will guide your efforts and keep you motivated throughout the year.

2. Organize and Plan: Effective planning is key to a smooth start. Use this final week to organize your classroom, prepare lesson plans, and arrange necessary materials. Even if some aspects of your setup aren’t ideal, a structured plan will help you feel more prepared and in control.

3. Embrace Flexibility: While having a plan is essential, flexibility is equally important. Things might not always go as expected, and that’s okay. Being adaptable will help you navigate unexpected challenges with a positive attitude and maintain a productive learning environment.

4. Foster a Positive Classroom Environment: From day one, create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for your students. Develop classroom routines that promote respect and collaboration. Building strong relationships with your students will enhance their engagement and make your classroom a place where everyone feels valued. 

5. Prioritize Self-Care: Teaching can be demanding, so don’t forget to take care of yourself. Establish a routine that includes time for relaxation and activities you enjoy. Balancing your professional and personal life will help you stay energized and focused throughout the year. 

6. Involve Parents and Guardians Early: Engage with parents and guardians from the start to build a strong partnership in supporting student success. Send out introductory letters, schedule meetings, and encourage open communication. Involving families early helps create a supportive network for your students. 

7. Stay Informed and Innovative: Keep yourself updated on new teaching strategies and educational tools. Incorporate innovative practices into your lessons to keep your students engaged and enhance their learning experiences. Professional development and staying curious about new methods can invigorate your teaching approach.

8. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflect on your teaching practices and student progress. Be open to making adjustments based on what’s working and what isn’t. Continuous improvement is a hallmark of effective teaching and will help you better meet the needs of your students.

9. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate the small successes along the way. Whether it’s a breakthrough with a student or a successful lesson, recognizing these moments can boost your morale and keep you motivated.

10. Connect with Colleagues: Build and maintain a support network with fellow teachers. Sharing experiences, advice, and encouragement with colleagues can provide valuable insights and help you feel less isolated in your teaching journey.

As we prepare to head back to school, let’s embrace the excitement and challenges that come with it. By starting with a clear plan, staying adaptable, and nurturing a positive environment, we can create a successful and fulfilling year for ourselves and our students.
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Here’s to a fantastic 2024-2025 school year!

It's hard to believe that summer is almost over! Many of you will soon be making preparations for the 2024-2025 academic year. Registration is now open. For new students registering, you can expect to hear from me towards the end of August to schedule a consultation for the first week of September. 

We look forward to seeing you again soon!
​Register Here

Studying is a skill. Anything that is a skill can be taught, learned, practiced and improved. This week a group of teens completed their Study Skills 2024. We worked at examining and enhancing study their current study skills and refining the methods they use to absorb, process, retain and utilize information effectively. We wish them all the best in the new academic year. 

Earlier this week I made a quick trip over to GT to work with a group of interns from the National Internship and Apprenticeship program. We explored 3 essential soft skills through learning, discussion and games.

We wish them all the best as they continue their studies and grow as professionals!