Sure, it would be nice to start a school garden, but there will be plenty of time to do it in the spring. Think again. If one's goal this year is to start a class garden, it's already time to start planning! In this article, the author shows just how (and when) to do each step with a full-year calendar.

Here's an awesome thought! Teaching means a teacher's impact on students will last a lifetime. And despite the negatives one hears in the news, a 2010 ING Foundation poll found that 98 percent of adults believe a good teacher can "change the course of a child's life." This year, a teacher will affect every child in his/her class. Over the course…

From summer programs in archaeology or Russian to teaching abroad for a year or more, there are many opportunities available for teachers. This article describes unique programs in archeology, geology, astronomy, botany, and oceanography that are available as summer programs; master's programs in languages, administration, writing, and Teaching…

Middle school, which is generally thought of as sixth to eighth grades, is not easy for anybody. It is a rough time to be a student, and a tough age to teach. Teachers are expected to ease the transition of students from elementary to middle school. However, if you are an elementary teacher, you may not know what kids will be facing in middle…

A collection of activities is presented for teachers to help students explore the schooling process, from the overall organization of the school district to the daily aspects of learning in the classroom. (CB)

This article deals with the increasing academic pressure facing five-year-old children who are in kindergarten schools in the U.S. Part of the reason kindergarten is becoming more and more academic is a growing understanding of the importance of early learning and the capabilities of young children. Proponents of ramping up standards in early…

Not so many years ago, comic books in school were considered the enemy. Students caught sneaking comics between the pages of bulky--and less engaging--textbooks were likely sent to the principal. Today, however, comics, including classics such as "Superman" but also their generally more complex, nuanced cousins, graphic novels, are not only…

A fourth grade teacher examines the ever-changing and developing student teacher relationship. As students move on each year, past teachers still feel some degree of responsibility, and students learn about changing relationships. (SM)

Professional and personal systems to help keep teachers organized and at ease with the many tasks of teaching are described, including tracking supplies, preparing for substitute teachers, using technology, setting up for volunteers, providing stress relief, and knowing personal and professional limits. (CB)

Ideas for teaching children about creativity and its importance are offered in this article. Ingredients for developing creativity skills are presented and suggested projects are discussed. (DF)

Presents descriptions of the most commonly taught thinking skills and information on how to present, model, and practice those skills in class. The guide also includes a quiz designed to help the teacher take advantage of everyday opportunities to promote thinking skills, and 10 critical thinking skills strategies. (GLR)

Ten 10-minute activities to fill in the space between lessons or before lunch are described. Each one is designed to encourage students to think and participate. (MT)

Software programs which help students' vocabulary development are described. (CB)

Computer software to build skills and encourage family computer time over the summer are recommended for teachers to send home to parents. Programs include games based on classic adventure stories, a shopping mall game to encourage math skills, and keyboarding programs. (MT)

Many teachers, fueled by their passion, classroom experience, and entrepreneurial verve, decide to start their own schools. With the needs of children driving their every decision, teachers can create successful schools where students thrive. In this article, teachers who established their own schools--from public charters to private…