This quarter, we've been diving into academic language and academic discourse. If you're an ELA teacher, you may be nodding along with me and thinking, "YES!" But if you're teaching another subject, you might be wondering how you're supposed to fit meaningful conversations into your classroom routine.

Here's the thing—academic discourse isn’t just about talking. It’s about getting students to engage, think critically, and use content-specific language in ways that deepen their understanding. And that doesn’t happen overnight. Creating a classroom culture where students feel comfortable sharing ideas, questioning, and building on each other’s thoughts takes intentional effort. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Your Connections meeting this quarter has or will focus on strategies for encouraging student talk in ways that make learning more interactive and meaningful. Whether you're looking to incorporate structured discussions, quick turn-and-talks, or debate-style activities, small shifts can make a big difference.

If you're interested in bringing more academic conversations into your classroom—regardless of grade level or content area—check out the resources linked in this issue of The Starting Point and reach out to your mentor for ideas.

And just a heads-up… once I get you hooked on academic discourse, I might just convince you that your students can write, too! (#Englishteacherforlife)

Keep growing,

~Lydia

Mr. Davis, Ms. Gibbs, and Ms. Moore (along with fellow 7th grade teachers) created a space for students to explore, learn, and then teach others about the Holocaust. Students completed their own research and shared with not only their peers but with other grades and members of district team. Talk about cross-curricular engagement!

Mrs. Melton, Mrs. Gannon and Ms. Bausum hosted a family engagement opportunity for parents and other family members to learn about mCLASS testing. Local restaurants provided breakfast donations, and families had a space to learn strategies for helping their children succeed. They also sent home packets allowing families to practice skills with their children. What a great way to involve families!

Dear Overwhelmed Teacher,

First, take a deep breath. You’re carrying a lot, and it makes sense that you feel off balance. The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once. Here are a few quick strategies to help:

1. Prioritize with a “Must-Do, Should-Do, Could-Do” List – Not everything is urgent. Focus on what must get done today.
   
   

2. Batch Your Tasks – Set aside a specific time to tackle IEPs or progress monitoring instead of doing bits and pieces all day.
   
   

3. Use a Timer for Grading & Planning – Set a 20-minute timer, focus, then move on. It keeps tasks from eating up your whole night.
   
   

4. Pick One Small Behavior Focus – Instead of trying to fix everything, choose one manageable strategy (like greeting students at the door or using a simple signal for attention).
   
   

5. Ask for Help – You don’t have to do this alone. Lean on your mentor, co-workers, or even students (they love helping organize things).
   
   

Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Teaching is a marathon, not a sprint. You’ve got this!

Submit questions about teaching, work-life balance, discipline, and more. Examples:

• What do we do if there's a lockdown?
• One of my students told me he hated me. I can't get past it. Ideas?
• I don't know how to respond to an angry parent. How do I navigate this?
• Do you have any suggestions for making friends with teachers I don't know?