Overheard: “I’m noticing that a substantial number of kids are struggling to distinguish the topic of a passage from the claim that is being made. They seem to know what the reading is mostly about, but they are confusing that general topic with the more specific claim that the author is making it. I wonder why this is happening.” “Why don’t we ask the kids why they think it’s happening?” “Do you really think…

I’ve learned that data aren’t necessarily the engine of a powerful inquiry team. The team is, and teams are often comprised of very diverse members, particularly if every teacher serves on a team (and in my experience, this must be the case if we’re aiming for systemic improvement). When I leverage the diversity of the group and promote it as a strength, our work becomes very productive.  When I allow my personal beliefs and passions to…