Fair is Fair

It is hard to teach children about fairness. Children from a young age can perceive differences and are beginning to learn social rules; however, our brain also wants rewards and complicates a reaction to what it might register as injustice teaching-children-to-be-fair This delightful children's book by Varela explains giving each individual what they need not the same (amount) helps children understand fairness is not equal or the same. We have used it in classes to explain why children with special needs are given special flexible seating or fidgets but not al students need and benefit from them (they are a tool not tools). We have also used the book in self-regulation groups to talk about scenarios where initially things seemed "unfair" but after thinking it through or looking at it from another point of view it was fair. I have also recommended it to parents to explain why siblings of different ages have different responsibilities and privileges.

Girls and STEM

My school data profile shows that our female students scored significantly lower than males in grades 3 and 5 in math and science on our state standardized tests. This has been the trend the past two years in grade 3. My SMART goal this year will address this gap. Here is a resource you may want to check out if your school has a similar gap http://www.vsgc.gfb.pdf

Welcoming Schools

I just learned about this website at a workshop this afternoon. Check it out at welcomingschools.org to download a free starter kit to make your school be a safe place for all students and LGBT  families. It is sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation.  You might want to become a member and get their excellent magazine "Equality." They also have some excellent short videos.