Erin Lai

ALT “There is no greater gift one human being can give another than the opportunity to learn and grow in a loving and nurturing learning environment.” —Harry and Rosemary Wong, The First Days of School

ALT 5 Research-Based Tips for Decorating Your Classroom Showcase student work Keep 20—50% of walls clear Avoid displaying student scores Use visual aids to reinforce learning Share inspiring and inclusive role models and quotes

ALT "Great school culture is not an accident. It happens when we recognize that we all depend on each other, and then work together to create supportive, caring conditions for everyone—students, teachers, support staff, guests, everyone!" —David Geurin, Principal

ALT What Works for Me "I got into the habit of making sure the last question of every assessment is: 'What else do you know that I didn't ask you?' The responses vary, but I love it as another way for students to communicate comprehension." —Alicia Tanpreet Johal, Teacher

ALT "A kid said something funny in class today and the entire room, myself included, burst out laughing and could not stop for several very long, very joyous minutes. I was in tears. That won’t show up in any data sheet, but it matters too." —Marcus Luther, Teacher

ALT "Remember to celebrate even the smallest victories because they are big to the students who achieve them." —Julie Ward Ortloff, Educator

ALT What Works For Me This year, I had my students write down what they wanted to hear on tough days. I collected those notes and handed them out when I saw students needed them. The power of their own positive words returning to them made a difference. —Danielle Sicotte, Teacher

ALT It’s not best practice if it’s not sustainable. This means finding practices that lead to rich learning experiences while keeping curriculum design manageable within a reasonable workweek. —Paul Emerich France, Educator