Posts by df-admin

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Positive Relationships are Key to Effective Learning

by df-admin

“Education literally shapes the child’s brain and likely produces alterations that lay the foundation for all future learning, emotion regulation and social functioning” (Davidson, 2008). Restorative practices that focus on developing positive relationships are essential for learning to take place and help create the conditions for students to thrive. On the contrary, negative relationships often […]

Spirituality and Education

by df-admin

So grateful and excited to be here at Columbia Teacher’s College for The Spirituality in Education Conference!  http://spiritualitymindbody.tc.columbia.edu/ I feel so at home here, so connected with others and so connected to my life’s purpose. Today is also my daughter, Dani’s, 25th birthday.  She is truly a spiritual being and evidence of what it is […]

The Making of a Mensch

by df-admin

I am so excited and grateful to be part of Character Day!  I love the Science of Character and this year’s Jewish version, The Making of a Mensch, is wonderful as well! Here is a handout packet to help you dig more deeply into the Middot, Jewish Virtues. MiddotHandoutsDS Click here to link to the […]

Gratitude to Our Educators!

by df-admin

OK, I admit it.  This is a repost from 2 years ago. Hey, somethings are better the 2nd time around.  Perhaps you will enjoy these songs , videos and my sincere gratitude twice as much… How can I express my since appreciation to my fellow educators for your steadfast dedication to your students, your families […]

Fully Live Your Life Purpose in 2015

by df-admin

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” ~Mark Twain I believe we all have a purpose in life. As we welcome in 2015, I invite you to reflect on your life purpose and how you will fully live it. This year […]

Help Students Become Resilient, Capable and Confident

by df-admin

There are a variety of risks factors that lead to an increased likelihood of some students being educationally disadvantaged. According to Hirsch (2007), “Just 14 % of variation in individuals’ performance is accounted for by school quality. Most variation is explained by other factors, underlining the need to look at the range of children’s experiences, […]

Why I Do What I Do

by df-admin

I knew I wanted to be a teacher ever since I was eight years old and a student in Mrs. O’Leary’s third grade class. An exceptional teacher, Mrs. O’Leary did not treat her students as mere “vessels to be filled” with reading, writing and arithmetic, but as individuals worthy of her time, respect and consideration.  […]

Join Me in a “Back to Basics Revolution”

by df-admin

As you read Jim’s letter, I hope you will consider joining me in a “Back to Basics Revolution.” Public education in the US was founded on helping our young people grow up to be healthy and productive citizens with strong character.  We have veered away from what is most important in education and it is […]