Summer is right around the corner, which means the school year is winding down. While students can't wait for summer sleep-ins, camp fun, and downtime with friends, many teachers, believe it or not, look forward to planning for the next school year, but on the more relaxed schedule that summer break brings. So we’re making school-year planning more efficient by compiling our most valuable resources in one place. Our first-ever Teacher Toolkit helps reduce the planning stress that comes with summer by connecting educators with strategies and resources to utilize the entire school year.

Imposter syndrome often goes hand in hand with teaching.

Nearly all (93%) pre-service educators experience moderate levels, with 54% having frequent or severe levels of impostor thoughts. The term has become familiar due to increased workplace stress, despite first being coined in the late ‘70s. Simply stated, you’re not alone.

New Jersey has hundreds of highly trained teachers who earned their teaching license through Rutgers Alternate Route, leveraging their bachelor’s degree and content knowledge, which they demonstrate on licensing exams. According to Teacher Apprenticeship Network (TAN) Founder and Executive Director Kwamé Floyd, it’s all about making the path to teaching easier for those who want a career in education.

There are nearly two million substitute teachers and paraprofessionals in the United States, and these roles are growing. A recent study found paraprofessional growth outpaced teacher growth by approximately 21 percent.

This Teacher’s Appreciation Week, incorporate paraprofessionals and substitute teachers into planning. There are a few reasons why these important individuals deserve acknowledgment.

Dennis Liflyandchick noticed a student was off task in his tenth-grade biology class. Upon closer look, the student was preoccupied with Dungeons and Dragons (D&D), a fantasy role-playing game. Created in 1974, the tabletop game grew popular in the 1980s and has continued its growth.

Seeing an opportunity for connection, Liflyandchick struck up a conversation about the game.