Learning Unleashed

LISD learners are empowered to be Compassionate Community Contributors who value diverse perspectives and share their unique gifts with the world. Explore the resources below to foster the skills of perspective seeking, empathy and inclusivity, and contributing throughout our #1LISD community!

• How to Talk About Learning Differences with Your Students

• Guiding Students to Develop Their Civic Character

• How School Leaders Can Support Student Voice and Agency

• [Video] Creating a Culture of Caring Through Student-Led Service Learning
• 4 Strategies for Listening to Students to Spark Change
• The Kindness Game/Activity

What does it look like to be a Compassionate Community Contributor from our earliest learners all the way through our LISD staff? Check out the Graduate Profile "I Can" statements.

LISD students are contributing their gifts with the community through their advocacy at the state and local level. In the months of February and March alone, LISD students have presented at the Texas Legislature, LISD school board meetings, Texas Association of School Boards conference, and much more!

"Think of teaching as building a bridge rather than waging a battle. Different perspectives often bring complementary tools. The key is learning when and how to use each one effectively." Collaborative teams should approach planning and student assessment with compassion, welcoming others' perspectives. Encourage challenges to your thinking, fostering discussions that deepen understanding and expand your toolkit. By embracing Diverse Perspectives: The Power of Open-Minded Teaching, we construct a compassionate and growth-oriented professional learning community.

1. Digital Storytelling with Canva

• Create narratives showcasing community perspectives
• Enhance communication and social awareness

2. Student-led Podcasts with WeVideo

• Interview community members
• Improve interviewing and active listening skills

3. Collaborative Online Projects with Google Slides

• Offer academic supports to peers
• Build leadership and communication skills

4. Safe, AI-Enhanced Research with MagicSchool

• Customize the student-facing research tool to seek multiple perspectives
• Sharpen critical thinking skills

5. Data Analysis for Community Awareness with Google Sheets and Adobe Express

• Create infographics about local issues
• Develop analytical and presentation skills

MagicSchool.AI has empowered teachers in mindblowing new ways with the arrival of Custom Bots. Now, you can create your own bot and rethink your lesson design by uploading your Unit of Study or lesson and the Graduate Profile Indicators found on the Graduate Profile website.

Reach out to the Digital Learning Team to learn more!

Teaching Is Hard. Why Teachers Love It Anyway reminds us that we can be compassionate community contributors every single day we are on the job. Within the classroom, teachers cultivate a compassionate learning environment where students feel seen and valued, laying the groundwork for personal and academic growth. The true magic of teaching unfolds over time, witnessing former students thrive, receiving heartfelt messages of gratitude, and realizing the lasting impact of our efforts. Madeline Will writes that when "they contact me long after graduation to let me know how much they learned in my classes," she feels affirmed that her dedication is helping to build a brighter future, making every challenge worthwhile.

The windows for this year's summer professional learning offerings will be:

• May 27 - June 5
• July 14 - 24

Great learning opportunities will be available to support staff growth in areas such as content-based learning, instructional practices, technology, collaborative team work, and PLC.

More info to come with specific times/dates, exchange day opportunities, and much more!

Whether you enjoy reading for inspiration, self-care, or new learning, we’ve got you covered. In addition to local campus libraries, you have access to Leander ISD’s online digital libraries, Sora and Gale.

• OverDrive/Sora virtual library to borrow digital content such as ebooks and audiobooks anytime, anywhere. Put the Sora app on your mobile devices to access digital content on the go!

• Sora login directions

In the Gale Virtual Library, check out titles in the Self-Care & Inspiration collection like 180 Days for Self-Care for the Busy Educator, Shattering the Perfect Teacher Myth, along with other professional titles on various topics. (Username/Password found here)

Check out past editions of Learning Unleashed.

Let us know what you think about this edition or what you'd like to see in future editions of "Learning Unleashed."

For more opportunities for professional learning provided by Leander ISD, check out Eduphoria Strive.

Email: professional.development@leanderisd.org
Website: https://sites.google.com/leanderisd.org/professional-learning/home
Phone: 512.570.0209
Twitter: @LISD_IPL